Join Odyssey – A Premier Preschool Brand in Marylebone, London
About Odyssey
Odyssey, part of the award-winning Busy Bees Group, is a globally recognised, premium preschool brand. In April 2025, we will open our first exclusive 106-place campus in Marylebone, London, catering to children aged 0-5.
Odyssey offers a unique, innovative, and high-end early years' experience, combining state-of-the-art facilities with a cutting-edge, research-driven curriculum. Our bespoke approach creates limitless learning opportunities guided by exceptional teachers and designed to inspire curiosity, creativity, and confidence.
About the role
This is a unique opportunity for someone with strong leadership experience to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of our international early years education.
As Deputy Head, you will work closely with the Head of School, ensuring seamless operations and outstanding educational outcomes. You will be instrumental in driving curriculum excellence, team development, and school growth, while fostering a dynamic and nurturing learning environment.
This role is designed as a succession opportunity, preparing the selected candidate to take over as Head of School upon the current leader's departure. If you have a proven track record in leadership, a deep passion for early years education, and the ambition to step into a Headship role, we encourage you to apply.
Responsibilities
* Operations: Assist the Head of School in managing daily operations, ensuring smooth Centre functions across all areas.
* Educational Leadership: Oversee educational programs, maintaining high standards of care and teaching aligned with Odyssey's philosophy.
* Compliance & Safety: Ensure adherence to regulatory standards (safety, health, hygiene), supporting risk assessment and preparation for inspections.
* Curriculum Development: Lead the planning and delivery of a high-quality, differentiated curriculum that supports optimal learning outcomes.
* Safeguarding & Health: Act as secondary contact for safeguarding and health protocols, overseeing hygiene, illness, and medication management.
* Team Leadership: Support recruitment, onboarding, training, and development of staff, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth.
* Family Engagement: Build strong partnerships with families, ensuring open communication and involvement in their child's learning.
* Community & Brand Promotion: Support community engagement initiatives and advocate for Odyssey's brand through events and partnerships.
* Budget & Resources: Assist in managing the Centre's budget, ensuring operational excellence and effective use of resources.
* Strategic Development: Contribute to Centre's growth and stability, aligning operations with Odyssey's mission and core values. Support innovative practices and continuous improvement.
Who We're Looking For:
* Level 3 or above early years qualification essential
* At least 5 years of experience in early childhood education, with a strong background in supervisory and leadership roles.
* Exceptional communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage with staff, families, and community stakeholders.
* In-depth knowledge of early years education, curriculum implementation, and child development.
* Experience with compliance and regulatory requirements, including health, safety, and safeguarding protocols.
* Strong organisational skills, with the ability to manage multiple tasks and ensure smooth daily operations.
* Leadership experience, with a passion for developing teams and promoting continuous professional growth.
* Ability to collaborate effectively with diverse teams and engage with families from varied cultural backgrounds.
Why Join Odyssey?
* State-of-the-Art Facilities – Learn and lead in a dynamic environment designed to inspire both children and staff.
* Research-Based Curriculum – Odyssey's globally recognised approach ensures personalised learning for every child.
* Global Perspective – Be part of an award-winning international preschool network focused on innovative education.
* Professional Growth – Access continuous learning opportunities and career progression within the Odyssey community, including the potential to advance to Head of School.
* Building Organisational Capacity – Play a key role in shaping the future of early childhood education.
If you're ready to make an impact in the lives of children and families, while contributing to a global mission in early childhood education, apply now to join Odyssey London as our Deputy Head of School. This is a fantastic opportunity to grow and progress within our organisation toward becoming a future Head of School