Deputy Headteacher (First Step into Leadership) — Knightsbridge
About Caelum House School
Caelum House School is a small, unique setting in Knightsbridge supporting children with speech, language and communication needs and a strong commitment to SEND. We are ambitious for every child and believe that with the right environment, relationships and evidence-informed practice, children can thrive.
We are seeking an innovative, enthusiastic Deputy Headteacher who is excited by the opportunity to help shape a growing school. This is an ideal first step into senior leadership for an excellent practitioner ready to broaden their impact.
The opportunity
This is a full-time role (part-time considered) with a 50% teaching commitment.
Responsibilities
- Help lead the day-to-day running of the school, modelling calm, warm, high-expectation leadership.
- Drive high-quality teaching and learning, with a particular focus on communication, inclusion and outcomes.
- Teach approximately 50% of the timetable, modelling outstanding practice and supporting consistency across the school.
- Support staff development through coaching, mentoring and practical, classroom-based guidance.
- Contribute to an ambitious, innovative curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.
- Strengthen systems that help children achieve their fullest potential—academically, socially and emotionally.
Because we are a small school, you will have real influence, visibility and the chance to develop quickly as a leader.
Salary
£42,000–£51,000, within Caelum House School pay scales.
What we’re looking for
- Innovative and curious: you enjoy trying new approaches, evaluating impact, and refining practice.
- Enthusiastic and proactive: you bring energy, optimism and a “roll up your sleeves” mindset.
- Deeply committed to SEND: you believe inclusion is everyone’s responsibility and you can translate that belief into excellent practice.
- Child-centred and strengths-focused: you hold high expectations and help children build confidence, independence and communication.
- A team builder: you support colleagues with clarity, kindness and accountability.
- Ready for leadership: you may be stepping into senior leadership for the first time, but you are eager to learn, reflect and grow.
Essential criteria
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) (or equivalent).
- Strong classroom practice and a track record of improving outcomes.
- Experience working with children with SEND (particularly speech, language and communication needs), or a clear commitment to developing expertise.
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to build trusting relationships with children, families and colleagues.
- A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Desirable criteria
- Experience leading a phase, subject area, or whole‑school initiative.
- Additional training/experience in SEND, early years, primary, or communication‑focused approaches.
- Experience coaching or mentoring colleagues.
Start date
ASAP.
What we offer
- A rare chance to shape a distinctive school with an ambitious mission.
- A supportive environment where professional growth is actively encouraged.
- Close collaboration with a specialist team committed to evidence-informed practice.
- The opportunity to develop your leadership skills quickly in a high-impact role.
Caelum House School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Appointment will be subject to safer recruitment checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check.
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