At Outcomes First Group, we believe in better work/life balance — and we’re putting wellbeing first.
That’s why we’re proud to be part of a 4-Day Working Week (4DWW) trial, where you can work one day less each week (or equivalent hours), while still receiving your full-time pay.
Job Title: Deputy Headteacher
Salary: Up to £55,000 per annum depending on experience ( not pro rata )
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday–Friday | 08:30–16:30
Contract: Permanent | Term Time Only
Start: January 2026
Join Our Team and Help Keep Our School Running Smoothly
Waterloo Lodge School is seeking an ambitious and dedicated Deputy Headteacher who is inspired by the opportunity to shape the life chances of young people with complex needs. This is a pivotal leadership role within our specialist provision, working closely with the Headteacher to drive high standards, nurture an inclusive culture, and deliver an exceptional educational experience for every pupil.
As Deputy Headteacher, you will be central to strategic planning, school improvement, teaching and learning, safeguarding and staff development. Waterloo Lodge School is a close-knit, dedicated community where every learner matters. Our pupils require understanding, structure and personalised support to achieve their potential. We are looking for a leader who values connection, celebrates individuality and remains relentlessly committed to helping young people succeed.
Shape and deliver our whole-school vision for high-quality education.
Lead curriculum development, ensuring it is broad, balanced and responsive to pupil needs.
Promote evidence-based, innovative teaching practice across the school.
Evaluate and raise the quality of teaching, learning and outcomes.
Ensure adherence to safeguarding standards, SEND legislation and regulatory frameworks.
Support recruitment, training and performance management, including coaching and CPD.
Deputise for the Headteacher and represent the school when required.
Has a clear vision for teaching, learning, curriculum and whole-school improvement.
Leads with integrity, confidence and emotional intelligence.
Champions inclusive education and strives for exceptional pupil outcomes.
At Waterloo Lodge, you will join a friendly, inclusive community where teamwork and respect come first. You’ll be trusted to take ownership, supported by a positive leadership team, and recognised for the vital role you play in helping our pupils thrive.
Waterloo Lodge School is an independent specialist day school for students aged 10 to 18, supporting young people with a wide range of needs in the Lancashire, Manchester, and surrounding areas. Our team is dedicated to providing a nurturing environment where students can thrive academically and socially, helping them rebuild their confidence and take pride in their achievements.
For over 19 years Options Autism have provided care and education to pupils, young people and adults with autism, complex needs and learning difficulties. We are a leading provider of education for neurodivergent young people and young adults. As part of Outcomes First Group, we are leading our sector in setting and delivering new approaches that provide measurable outcomes for those in our care.
Why Join Options Autism?
We place the outcomes of the pupils and vulnerable young adults in our services at the heart of everything we do, so you’ll wake every day in the knowledge that your role will have a significant positive impact on the lives of others.
We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and young people. All applicants will be subject to social media checks and successful applicants to a fully enhanced DBS.
Life Assurance
~ Pension scheme with options to increase your contributions
~“Your Wellbeing Matters” – access to a wide range of first-class mental health support services and physical health checks
And a market-leading benefit offering through our Flexible Benefits Platform, Vista, enables you to choose the package that’s right for you, including:
~ A wide range of health, wellbeing, and insurance benefits
~100’s of discount options valid in the UK and abroad
~ Cycle to Work Schemes
~ Electric Car Purchase Scheme
~ Critical illness cover
~ Family Growth Support - inclusive benefits package covering enhanced maternity and paternity leave, along with paid fertility treatment support.
4DWW is subject to successful completion of probation and is not a contractual benefit
Outcomes First Group is committed to carrying out a fair, thorough and efficient recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education.