Deputy Headteacher Location: Farnham, Surrey Salary : Pay scale WL12 to WL16 (FTE £69,332 to £76,481 per annum) Closing date: Thursday 23 rd April 2026 at 8.00am Interview date: Thursday 30 April 2026 We are seeking an exceptional, ambitious and values‑driven leader to join our dedicated and experienced Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Headteacher at our Outstanding secondary special school for pupils with moderate learning difficulties (MLD). This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced leader ready to make a significant whole‑school impact, contribute to strategic leadership, and help shape the next phase of the school’s development. The role will particularly appeal to candidates who are aspiring to headship and are keen to develop their leadership experience within a highly supportive and successful environment. Main Purpose Provide vision and professional leadership as part of the Senior Leadership Team (SLT) of the school ensuring outstanding quality education for all students and improved standards of achievement Oversee the ‘day-to-day’ operational running of the school Lead the school in the absence of the Head teacher Satisfy the aims of the school through the implementation of the policies of the Local Governing Body and Trust With the Leadership Team, develop an outstanding learning environment and manage the resources to promote and secure the achievement of both students and staff Work with the whole staff to develop a strong learning environment that has, at its centre, high expectations of learning, work, performance, academic achievement and behaviour Work with the SLT in setting, nurturing, promoting and maintaining a very high standard of behaviour and mutual respect throughout the school, ensuring that all staff play an active role in the pursuit of these standards Person Specification Essential Qualified Teacher status – graduate or teachers’ certificate Proven senior leadership experience with a track record in strategic leadership, team management and school improvement Successful and sustained teaching experience at Key Stages 1 & 2 or 3 & 4, with evidence of strong outcomes Significant experience of teaching pupils with complex SEND Demonstrable experience of leading and developing teaching and learning to secure consistently high-quality practice A strong track record of outstanding classroom practice Clear understanding of safeguarding and child protection, including experience of carrying out safeguarding responsibilities in line with statutory guidance Experience of performance management and appraisal, including setting objectives, monitoring progress and supporting professional development Proven ability to manage and de-escalate challenging behaviour effectively within a leadership role Ability to model inclusive practice, high expectations, and a commitment to improving outcomes for vulnerable learners Desirable Post graduate qualification NPQH National Award for SEN Coordination (NASENCo) Proven senior leadership experience within a special school setting Experience of coaching, mentoring, and developing staff, including early career teachers or middle leaders Experience of teaching or overseeing a primary or secondary curriculum, particularly within a specialist or all‑through setting To Apply If you feel you are a suitable candidate and would like to work for The Abbey School, please proceed through the following link to be redirected to our website to complete your application. https://