Deputy Headteacher

Contract: Full-time, term time only
Salary: From £45,000 depending on experience
Benefits: Company Pension, Life Assurance, Employee Discount Scheme
Location: Teynham, Kent
Start Date: September 2026

At ISP School Teynham, we are dedicated to transforming the lives of children and young people (CYP) in Kent and Medway. Our independent specialist provision caters to those living with their families, foster parents, or in residential children's homes.

We focus on supporting CYP with Social, Emotional, and Mental Health (SEMH) needs and autism spectrum disorder (ASD). Our holistic and tailored approach ensures that every child receives high-quality education alongside a range of supportive services.

As part of the Polaris Community, we have been passionately improving the lives of children for over 30 years. With over 15 SEN schools across the UK, we collaborate to provide tailored, diverse, and appropriate education in a safe and supportive environment. We are proud that 100% of our inspected services have been rated as Good or Outstanding by Ofsted!

We are looking for a caring, forward-thinking leader to step into the role of Deputy Headteacher. In this exciting position, you will:

• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning across the school, focusing on inclusion and differentiated instruction for SEND students.
• Assess, monitor, record, and report on the learning needs, progress, and achievements of pupils.
• Participate in preparing pupils for external examinations.
• Lead whole-school organization, strategy, and curriculum development.
• Contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of school policies and practices that align with our values and vision.
• Collaborate on curriculum and pupil development to secure coordinated outcomes.
• Promote a therapeutic approach to behavior and emotional wellbeing.
• Work closely with staff, parents, and external professionals to ensure the best outcomes for students.
• Manage and support staff teams, fostering a culture of cooperation and continuous improvement.
• Collaborate with other leaders within the Polaris Community to share best practices and ensure alignment with our ethos.

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with experience in SEND.
• Proven experience in delivering a high-quality curriculum focused on supporting young people with SEND.
• Experience in leading and managing teams with a compassionate, therapeutic approach.
• Excellent communication and collaboration skills, with the ability to work inclusively with staff, students, and families.
• A proactive, adaptable attitude, capable of establishing new systems and processes aligned with the school's values.
• Previous senior or middle leadership experience.

• A workplace that values the emotional health and wellbeing of everyone (including you!).
• A commitment to support your development through a wide range of professional opportunities.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the lives and lifelong learning of vulnerable children who deserve high-quality teaching.
• A friendly and inclusive team passionate about improving pupil outcomes.
• A unique opportunity to shape curriculum development and SEND provision.
• A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
• Professional development opportunities within the Polaris Community.
• A chance to make a real difference in the lives of children with complex needs.

The successful candidate will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check, the cost of which will be covered by ISP School Teynham.

ISP School Teynham is an equal opportunities employer and encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults, and expect all staff to share this commitment.