Deputy Head (Academic)
We seek to appoint a Deputy Head (Academic) to join the Senior Management Team. The successful candidate will play a key role in leading the academic development of the school and will contribute to the vision and strategic direction of Birkdale School.
We are seeking an exceptional educational leader to join our School, reporting directly to the Head and working alongside the Deputy Head (Pastoral). The Deputy Head (Academic) will work closely with the Heads of Section and our Head of Teaching and Learning to ensure high quality teaching and learning across the school.This is a pivotal role within our Senior Leadership Team, responsible for shaping and delivering the academic strategy across our thriving co-educational community.
The Deputy Head (Academic) will also work with the Heads of Section to monitor pupils’ academic performance and champion academic excellence. You will play a key role in developing our broad and balanced curriculum, supporting staff development, and fostering a culture where each pupil is empowered to flourish both academically and personally.
At Birkdale, our rounded education is underpinned by a strong Christian ethos, and the successful candidate will be a committed, practising Christian. The successful candidate will support SLT in ensuring the faith of the School remains embedded within all we do, and that our strong Christian values support a well-rounded education for all our pupils.
This is an outstanding opportunity to shape the academic heart of a school committed to nurturing the whole child and preparing them for successful, fulfilling lives. Our mission is to deliver a strong academic education through outstanding teaching, inspiring every pupil to achieve their personal best within a supportive and aspirational environment.
The role will also involve some teaching, which is proposed to make up around 25% of the role.
For more information, and to obtain an application pack and form, please visit our website at https://www.birkdaleschool.org.uk/about-us/vacancies/
Application Procedure
To apply for this role please provide the following:
- A cover letter addressed to Ben Bowles, Head of no more than one side of A4 explaining why you believe you are interested in the role, and the skills and experiences you can bring to it (minimum font size of 11)
- A completed Birkdale School application form which includes the names, addresses, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers of two referees
Closing date for applications – Friday, 16 May 2025 at 12.00 noon.
Interviews – w/c Monday, 19 May 2025.
Email your application to: Ben Bowles, Head at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk by the closing date.
For an informal discussion regarding the role please do not hesitate to contact the above email address with any questions you may have.
Applicants who do not provide a Covering Letter and Application Form, as stipulated, will unfortunately not be considered. If you have any difficulties in providing this, please do not hesitate to contact the HR team at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk
Pre-employment checks:
Birkdale School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and young people. All applicants must be willing to undergo the relevant pre-employment checks relevant to the role.
Current legislation applying to this post includes the The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2008 and the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996. Therefore, the successful candidate will be required to prove their eligibility to work in the UK and undergo appropriate criminal record checks, including an application for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.Details of the documentation etc needed in connection with all the above requirements will be sent to the shortlisted candidates. Prior to taking up appointment, we will then request a declaration about medical fitness, and proof of qualifications from the successful candidate.
Under the guidance set by KCSIE Birkdale School will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates.
Equal Opportunities Statement:
At Birkdale School, we strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all individuals. We are dedicated to promoting equality and diversity, providing a level playing field for all of our staff and pupils. We aim to foster an inclusive culture, where diversity is celebrated and where everyone feels empowered, and encouraged to reach their full potential.
We welcome applications from all individuals, regardless of background, and encourage candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. If you meet most of the criteria but are unsure whether to apply, we encourage you to reach out—we value potential and a willingness to grow.