Deputy Director of Education; Internal

This is an internal vacancy, open to existing employees of the Archdiocese of Southwark. We warmly encourage colleagues with the relevant experience and skills, who are looking to develop their role within the Diocese, to apply.

The Deputy Director of Education plays a pivotal leadership role in advancing the mission of Catholic education across the Archdiocese of Southwark. Working closely with the Director of Education, the postholder will provide strategic leadership, professional support and challenge to Catholic schools, academies and trusts, ensuring that educational provision is faithful to the mission of the Church, delivers high standards of academic excellence and promotes the holistic development of every child and young person.

The Deputy Director will contribute to the development and implementation of diocesan educational strategy, strengthen leadership capacity across schools and trusts, and foster close collaboration with clergy, governors, trustees, school leaders, local authorities and national education bodies.

• Support the Director of Education in implementing the Archdiocesan vision for Catholic education.
• Contribute to the development, delivery and evaluation of diocesan educational strategy.
• Provide leadership on key priorities including school improvement, Catholic identity, governance, leadership development and academy growth.
• Deputise for the Director of Education as required in strategic meetings and public engagements.
• Lead designated areas of the Education Service portfolio.

• Monitor and evaluate the performance of diocesan schools, identifying strengths, risks and areas for development.
• Provide appropriate support and challenge to school leaders, governing bodies and trusts to improve outcomes for pupils.
• Lead interventions where schools face significant educational, leadership or governance challenges.
• Promote excellence in teaching, learning, curriculum development and inclusion.
• Analyse performance data and intelligence to inform strategic decision-making.

• Promote and safeguard the distinctive Catholic character and mission of schools.
• Support schools in developing their Catholic life, religious education and collective worship.
• Work collaboratively with parish clergy, diocesan departments and school leaders to strengthen the mission of Catholic education.
• Ensure diocesan educational practice remains aligned with the teachings and values of the Catholic Church.

• Identify and nurture future leaders across the diocesan school system.
• Support the recruitment, development and retention of high-quality Catholic leaders.
• Design and deliver leadership formation programmes for headteachers, senior leaders and governance leaders.
• Facilitate effective professional networks and communities of practice.

• Advise governors, trustees and academy leaders on governance, accountability and strategic development.
• Support the growth and development of Catholic Academy Trusts across the Archdiocese.
• Promote effective governance practices and leadership structures.
• Assist in developing sustainable models of collaboration between schools.

• Build strong relationships with headteachers, executive leaders, governors, trustees, clergy and external partners.
• Represent the Archdiocese at local, regional and national meetings.
• Contribute to policy consultations and educational developments affecting Catholic schools.
• Promote the work and achievements of Catholic education within and beyond the Archdiocese.

• Provide line management and professional leadership to designated Education Service staff.
• Lead specific projects and initiatives within agreed budgets.
• Contribute to service planning, monitoring and evaluation.
• Ensure compliance with safeguarding, statutory and regulatory requirements.

• Degree or equivalent professional qualification.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) or equivalent senior leadership experience.
• Practising Catholic in full sacramental communion with the Church with a strong commitment to the mission of Catholic education.

• Successful senior leadership experience in education, in schools and within the Diocesan setting.
• Proven record of raising educational standards and improving pupil outcomes.
• Experience of…