Deputy Headteacher - Pastoral - Full-time

The Malling School, East Malling

• Ref:KCC886-5425-614L
• Posted:27/03/2026
• Pay:Leadership L14 - L18
• Start Date:September 2026
• App Close Date:20/04/2026 at 11:00
• Interviews:27th - 28th April

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About the Role

We are seeking an exceptional and ambitious leader to join our Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Headteacher – Pastoral. This is a pivotal role focused on raising standards, improving pupil outcomes and driving a culture of high expectations, with a particular emphasis on pastoral care, safeguarding, attendance, behaviour and inclusion.

The successful candidate will play a key strategic role in shaping the school’s vision and ensuring every student is supported to thrive both academically and personally.

Key Responsibilities

• Act as a core member of the Senior Leadership Team, contributing to whole-school strategy and improvement
• Lead and develop pastoral systems to ensure outstanding behaviour, attendance and student wellbeing
• Take on the role of Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL), with responsibility for safeguarding and child protection across the school
• Line manage pastoral leaders, including Heads of House and SEND provision
• Develop and implement strategies to support disadvantaged students, including pupil premium
• Oversee behaviour systems, exclusions, and attendance interventions
• Lead transition programmes (primary to secondary and post-16)
• Work closely with external agencies, parents and stakeholders
• Contribute to the day-to-day leadership and running of the school
• Model exceptional professional standards and lead by example

The Ideal Candidate Will:

• Be an outstanding classroom practitioner with a strong track record of impact
• Have successful leadership experience at middle or senior level
• Demonstrate expertise in pastoral leadership, safeguarding and inclusion
• Be an inspiring and resilient leader who motivates staff and students
• Have excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Show the ability to think strategically, innovate and drive improvement
• Be committed to raising aspirations and outcomes for all learners

Qualifications & Experience

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• Degree or equivalent
• Evidence of continued professional development
• Leadership qualifications (e.g. NPQ) desirable but not essential

Why Join Us?

• A supportive and forward-thinking leadership team
• A strong commitment to staff development and wellbeing
• The opportunity to make a significant impact on students’ lives
• A school community driven by high expectations and inclusive values

Safeguarding and Compliance

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people. All successful candidates will be subject to an Enhanced DBS disclosure, Occupational Health check, two satisfactory references, an online check, and, where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and its amendments.

How to Apply

Please apply via Kent Teach and complete the application form in full. Applications may be reviewed upon receipt and interviews may take place before the closing date. The closing date for applications is 20th April and interviews will take place on 27th-28th April. We reserve the right to withdraw this vacancy early should sufficient interest be received. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Visit Us

We strongly encourage visits during a normal school day to experience our calm environment, high expectations and supportive staff community. To arrange a visit please contact hr@themallingschool.kent.sch.uk.

Information about the school

A mixed 11-19 co-educational High School of 1,000 pupils serving the historic market town of West Malling and surrounding villages. The school is set in pleasant rural surroundings and has its own lake and extensive grounds.

West Malling is close to the county town of Maidstone and has excellent rail links to London and Ashford

This is an exciting time to be joining the staff of The Malling School.

We are dedicated to providing a holistic education, nurturing the complete student. Our strong culture, robust behaviour systems, and Ofsted-rated "Good with Outstanding Features" provides a solid foundation for our students success.

We provide a very supportive environment in which staff can further develop their skills and we ensure every new member of staff has access to a trained coach. With close teams of teachers and non-teachers working together we take a collaborative approach to school improvement and have a shared aim of providing the very best education for our pupils.

Visit our website at www.themallingschool.kent.sch.uk for further information

Job Contact Information

• Name:HR
• Address:The Malling School, Beech Road , East Malling, Kent, ME19 6DH
• Telephone: 01732 840995
• Email: hr@themallingschool.kent.sch.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

• Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy
• Employment of Ex-Offenders policy
• Recruitment Pack