Deputy Head (Academic)

At OLA we promote a challenging and progressive curriculum, which reflects the learning requirements of each individual pupil. It aims to nurture independent, analytical and creative thinking and to build the confidence in our pupils to articulate clearly their views of the world around them.

The School achieves strong academic results, as a result of effective and well-developed relationships between pupils and staff and a positive attitude to learning. In 2023, an 95% pass rate was achieved at GCSE, with 69% of all grades at 9 to 6. Our 2023 results were higher than 2019, which was a great achievement. In addition, 46% of pupils achieved at least one 9 grade, demonstrating that pupils can achieve at the highest level in any subject for which they have an aptitude and passion. A Level results were equally impressive, with 57% of all grades at A* to B. Similar to GCSE, almost half of our students achieved at least one A grade. OLA’s value-added is outstanding, year on year, and belies our raw results which reflect our relatively broad ability intake. Upper Sixth leavers achieved places at a range of prestigious universities, including Cardiff, Bath, York, Warwick, Kings, Leeds and Birmingham.

The Deputy Head (Academic) is responsible for achieving and sustaining the highest academic standards and levels of attainment within the school. If you choose to apply for this post, we will give your application all the seriousness it deserves. The role we are looking to fill is important to the flourishing of the school and we hope you will feel that you are the right person to fill it.

For full details please refer to the attached Application pack.

The ideal candidate:

• Educated to degree level or above
• Demonstrable impact in a middle leader role
• Experience of working effectively with senior leaders
• Professional, enthusiastic, with a 'can-do' attitude
• Friendly and approachable
• Outstanding and enthusiastic classroom teacher 
• Track record of motivating learners and raising achievement 
• Excellent communication skills with staff, students & parents 
• A commitment to using ICT to develop learning 
• Commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of students 
• Understanding and supportive of the School's ethos

What we offer:

• Free school lunches during term time
• Free on-site parking
• Friendly, supportive working culture
• Teachers' pension scheme
• Use of school facilities
• A peaceful yet central location close to public transport and shopping facilities

Abingdon-on-Thames is an historic, modern market town situated eight miles south of Oxford, with its world renowned reputation as a centre of academic excellence. The town has undergone recent development to upgrade the central shopping area providing a selection of restaurants, cafes and bars situated a just few minutes walk away from the river and gardens of Abbey Meadows. The town supports a mixed international community and has excellent bus links to Oxford, which is just a 15 minute ride away and provides a wealth of social and cultural opportunities.

For full details of the role please refer to the attached Application Pack.

Application deadline: Monday 06 May 2024

How to apply:

Applicants are asked to submit a completed application form via the TES portal. CV applications or incomplete application forms will not be considered.

• Ensure that your application form is completed in full and no gaps are left in your education/employment history. 
• Two referees should be provided, one of whom must be your current or most recent employer. References will be requested prior to interviews taking place.
• In addition to the interview, candidates can expect to complete other selection exercises.
•  Applicants will be required to prove their right to work in the UK at interview. The School is unable to offer sponsorship to candidates who do not have worker status.
• The successful candidate will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and social media check in addition to other safeguarding measures.

Our Lady’s Abingdon is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff undergo an Enhanced DBS, and other safer recruiting checks.