Job Description

Location: Blackpool, Lancashire (with travel across expanding regional sites)

Salary: Up to £38,000 per annum

Contract: Full-Time, Permanent

Progression: Fast-Track Route to Headship

We are a rapidly growing, independent alternative provision provider dedicated to re-engaging youth who thrive outside of mainstream education. With established success in Blackpool and demand surging, our sites are expanding rapidly across Lancashire and beyond.

To power this growth, we are looking for an ambitious, resilient, and visionary leader to step into the role of Deputy Headteacher. If you have the drive to inspire staff and transform student outcomes, we will actively support you on a fast-track pathway to a Head of Site / Headteacher role as our network continues to scale.

The Opportunity: What You'll Do

As our Deputy Headteacher, you will be a hands-on leader balancing strategic school improvement with day-to-day operational excellence.

  • Drive Quality of Education: Oversee a tailored, innovative, and functional curriculum designed for small class groups.

  • Lead Positive Behaviour & Culture: Model and embed trauma-informed practices that cultivate a safe, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment.

  • Mentor & Develop Staff: Lead, inspire, and grow an enthusiastic team of teachers and support staff.

  • Support Network Expansion: Work closely with senior executives as we open new sites throughout Lancashire, playing a key role in setting up new provisions.

  • Prepare for Headship: Shadow our current executive leadership with clear milestones to step up into a Headship position within our expanding independent school network.

Who We Are Looking For

We need someone who sees the potential in every child and refuses to give up on them.

  • Experience: A proven track record of teaching and senior leadership (e.g., Assistant Head, Senior Leader, or experienced Head of Department) within an AP, SEN, SEMH, or specialist independent school setting.

  • Skills: Expert knowledge of behaviour management strategies, safeguarding practices (DSL experience is a plus), and supporting students with EHCPs.

  • Mindset: An entrepreneurial, adaptable mindset ready to meet the challenges of a fast-growing independent provision.

  • Qualifications: QTS, QTLS, or an equivalent recognised leadership and teaching background.

Why Join Our Independent AP Network?

  • True Impact: Say goodbye to standard mainstream bureaucracy. Here, you have the autonomy to make adjustments that genuinely change young lives every single day.

  • Collaborative Support: Benefit from shared resources, multi-site operational support, and dedicated administrative teams across our Lancashire hubs.

  • Competitive Benefits: Up to £38,000 basic salary, comprehensive CPD, and a robust employee assistance and well-being package.

How to Apply

To apply or to arrange an informal, confidential discussion about the role and our fast-track progression timelines, please submit your CV along with a brief covering letter outlining your leadership experience in alternative education settings.