Higham Ferrers Junior School · Rushden, East Midlands
Required for January 2027 or sooner We are seeking an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our senior leadership team at a pivotal point in our school’s improvement journey. This post is for a January 2027 start, or sooner if possible. This is a significant opportunity to make a lasting impact in a junior school committed to rapid and sustained improvement. We are looking for a resilient, ambitious leader who can work alongside school and Trust leaders to secure high standards and consistently strong teaching and learning for all pupils. As Deputy Headteacher, you will play a central role in driving the school’s improvement priorities. You will lead the work of raising standards across the school, with a clear focus on strengthening teaching practice, embedding a high-quality curriculum, and ensuring effective use of assessment to improve pupil outcomes. You will be a visible, hands-on leader, working alongside staff to bring about meaningful and lasting improvements. There is no class teaching commitment attached to this role. The successful candidate will be an excellent classroom practitioner with proven leadership experience and a strong track record of impact. You will combine the ability to inspire and motivate others with the confidence to provide clear direction, support and challenge. You will model high expectations, a commitment to inclusion, and an uncompromising belief that every child can succeed. This role requires a collaborative, determined professional who can build strong relationships across the school community while maintaining a sharp and relentless focus on improvement. You will contribute to both strategic leadership and the day-to-day running of the school, helping to establish a culture of consistency, accountability and ambition. This position would suit an experienced Deputy Headteacher seeking a new challenge, or a strong senior leader ready to take the next step and play a key role in leading sustained school improvement. We are looking for someone who: Is an excellent classroom practitioner with consistently high expectations of all pupils Has successful experience of leading whole-school improvement and raising standards Has a strong track record of improving the quality of teaching and learning Can demonstrate measurable impact on pupil progress and outcomes Leads with clarity, integrity and a strong sense of moral purpose Is confident in providing both support and challenge to secure improvement Inspires, coaches and develops staff to improve practice and outcomes Is fully committed to inclusion, safeguarding and ensuring equity for all pupils Has the capacity and credibility to deputise for the Headteacher and contribute at a strategic level In return, we offer: The opportunity to play a leading role at a crucial stage of the school’s improvement journey The chance to make a genuine and lasting difference to pupils' outcomes A committed and hardwork