Job details

Salary: Leadership Grade L4 - L8

Employer: West Monkton Church of England Primary School

Location: Taunton, Somerset,

Contract type: Fixed term

Working pattern: Full time

Closing date: 14 May 2026 11:59 pm

About the job

Key information

  • Salary : Leadership L4 – L8
  • Hours of work: Full time
  • Contract: Fixed Term/Secondment Maternity Cover. From 01/09/2026 to 31/09/2027

An exciting leadership opportunity

West Monkton Church of England Primary School is seeking to appoint an exceptional Deputy Headteacher to join our senior leadership team on a fixed‑term basis to cover maternity leave. We would be delighted to consider applications from candidates seeking a secondment opportunity, as well as those looking for a temporary leadership role.

This is an exciting opportunity for an inspirational, compassionate and ambitious leader to work closely with the Headteacher and play a significant role in shaping the strategic direction of our school, while upholding our strong Christian ethos and nurturing, inclusive culture.

What will I be doing?

As Deputy Headteacher, you will:

  • Deputise for the Headteacher in their absence and support them in the strategic leadership of the school
  • Help formulate and drive the school’s vision, aims and objectives
  • Lead strategically on areas of the School Improvement Plan and contribute to self‑evaluation
  • Be the Deputy / Designated Safeguarding Lead, ensuring the highest standards of safeguarding and child welfare
  • Lead and have oversight of attendance, behaviour, wellbeing and vulnerable pupils
  • Strategically lead the Quality of Education, including curriculum design, teaching, learning and assessment
  • Lead and manage staff performance, professional development and induction
  • Line manage staff and curriculum/domain leaders, building strong distributed leadership
  • Monitor and evaluate standards across the school, using data to drive improvement
  • Undertake class teaching responsibilities where required
  • Support and represent the Headteacher at meetings with governors, trust leaders and external partners

This role offers the opportunity to make a significant whole‑school impact while remaining connected to classroom practice and the daily life of a caring primary school.

What kind of experience or qualifications do I need?

We are looking for a Deputy Headteacher who:

  • Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
  • Is an outstanding classroom practitioner with extensive teaching experience
  • Has a strong leadership track record and a clear understanding of school improvement
  • Is passionate about teaching and learning and committed to the ‘whole child’
  • Can inspire, motivate and support staff through kindness, clarity and high expectations
  • Is confident in leading curriculum development and ensuring high-quality teaching across all subjects
  • Demonstrates a strong commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and equality
  • Is approachable, visible and values strong relationships with children, families and the community
  • Understands the importance of collaboration, both within school and across the Trust

What is in it for me?

  • A welcoming, supportive and values‑driven school community
  • Enthusiastic, caring pupils who are proud of their school
  • A committed staff team with a strong sense of collaboration
  • Professional development and leadership support through The Oak Partnership Trust
  • The opportunity to play a significant role in shaping the future of our school

DBS check

Enhanced DBS check required

Supporting documents and information

School Tour: By appointment only on 7th May .2026 – Please call West Monkton C of E Primary School directly to book a suitable time

Application Closing: 14.05.2026

Shortlisting: 14.05.2026

Interview Date: 19 May 2026

Please note: All positions at The Oak Partnership Trust and within our schools require appropriate references and enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) clearance due to direct access to children.

The Oak Partnership Trust reserves the right to close an advertisement to applications ahead of the advertised closure date.

Safeguarding Statement

West Monkton Church of England Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

We particularly welcome applications from under represented groups including ethnicity, gender, transgender, age, disability, sexual orientation or religion.

Apply on the West Monkton Church of England Primary School website

Apply now