Location: High Wycombe
Overview
Are you an ambitious and experienced leader with a passion for transforming the lives of pupils with complex special educational needs?
Chiltern Wood School, a multi-site special school in High Wycombe, is seeking a dynamic Deputy Headteacher (Teaching & Learning) to join our supportive senior leadership team.
Hours: Full time
Contract type: Permanent
Salary: Leadership Salary Range 12 - 16
Closing date: 20th March 2026
Interview date:24th March 2026
About us
Chiltern Wood School is a Special School supporting students ranging from ages 3 to 19 years, located across three sites in Cressex, Downley and Studley Green.
We provide high-quality education for 239 pupils with ASC, SLD and Profound and Multiple Learning Difficulties (PMLD) and Severe Learning Difficulties (SLD) across three sites. Our dedicated staff team is committed to delivering personalised learning and outstanding care in a nurturing environment.
We offer the opportunity to become part of a team of caring professionals, contributing purposefully to meeting the special educational needs of children in the High Wycombe area. You will be well supported by welcoming and knowledgeable staff within a well-run, hard-working school which holds as its core value the wellbeing of its pupils, parents and staff.
Website:
About the role
You will:
1. Lead teaching and learning across all sites, ensuring outstanding outcomes for every pupil
2. Line-manage Assistant Heads with curriculum leadership roles
3. Oversee curriculum development, assessment, teaching and learning CPD, and quality assurance
4. Liaise closely with all members of the Senior Leadership Team
5. Support staff deployment, wellbeing, and contribute to recruitment and induction
6. Oversee transitions as part of the Senior Leadership Team
What We Offer:
7. Supportive SLT and governing body
8. Competitive pension scheme
9. Continuous professional development opportunities
10. On-site parking
11. Flexible working options across sites where operationally possible
As a school, we strive to continually improve our teaching and learning offer, and aim to secure only the very best outcomes for our pupils through high quality provision and practice.
About you
Qualifications and Training
12. Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
13. Evidence of sustained professional development relevant to special education and school leadership
Experience
14. Substantial teaching experience, ideally within special education (ASC/SLD/PMLD/ context)
15. Experience of leading curriculum development and assessment across key stages
16. Proven track record in managing, supporting, and developing staff teams
17. Experience of working in a multi-site or complex organisational structure is desirable
Skills and Knowledge
18. Deep understanding of effective teaching and learning strategies for pupils with ASC, SLD and PMLD
19. Up-to-date knowledge of curriculum, assessment, and statutory requirements in special schools
20. Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills
21. Ability to use data effectively to drive school improvement
22. Knowledge of safeguarding and behaviour management in a special school context
23. Strong organisational and time management skills
Personal Qualities
24. High expectations for all pupils and a commitment to inclusive education
25. Ability to motivate, inspire, and empower others
26. Collaborative and flexible approach to leadership
27. Resilience, integrity, and a commitment to ongoing professional development
28. Commitment to upholding the ethos and values of Chiltern Wood School