Secondary
Deputy Headteacher, Lead for Data, Assessment & Curriculum
Required from Easter 2026
11-16 Mixed Comprehensive (NOR 815)
The Governors of this thriving and ambitious Catholic school wish to appoint a dynamic and inspirational Deputy Headteacher who is capable of contributing to the ongoing success of this school. We are seeking candidates of the highest calibre who are able to demonstrate success in their career to date. The successful candidate must be a practicing Catholic who will be a team player, but also possess the singular vison to improve the experiences of all the children we serve and allow their light to shine.
If you are interested in developing professionally and can validate relevant experience, this post offers an outstanding opportunity to work in a school with an exciting future. Candidates from all teaching disciplines will be considered.
If successful, you will be joining a very hard-working team of professionals who are supportive of each other and keen to continue the excellent work of the school over recent years. The school was last inspected by the Catholic School Inspectorate in March 2024 and OFSTED in June 2025. These reports highlighted standards had both been maintained and improved since the previous inspections.
The successful candidate will:
- Lead the school in all areas of data, assessment and curriculum developments
- Be able to demonstrate their ability to effect positive change in a school setting
- Be passionate and committed to enhancing the full range of children’s educational experiences at St Mary’s
- Be enthusiastic, resourceful and keen to ensure that the highest possible standards are met by pupils and colleagues
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to complete an enhanced DBS check. Please note that in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, an online search will be carried out as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.
Application forms and further details are available via the school website or by contacting the school. We encourage prospective candidates to visit us on a working day and experience the school ethos. Please call Mrs Marie Owens, Head’s PA, if you wish to take advantage of this opportunity. Closing date for applications is 12 noon on Monday 24th November 2025 with interviews being held on Tuesday 2nd and Wednesday 3rd December 2025. Shortlisting will take place at 4pm on Wednesday 26th November 2025.
Other Information
WELCOME
Thank you for considering St Mary’s Catholic High School, Leyland.
We are a school community that continues to thrive and build on the successes of recent years. At St Mary’s, we unashamedly set high standards and expect the very best of our pupils. In so doing, every child is given the opportunity to flourish and fulfil their God-given potential.
Our school has a calm and purposeful working environment, with a rich extra-curricular provision, allowing pupils the opportunity to excel. They are aided wonderfully by a staff body who are hard-working, caring and committed. In short, we are a community where all members are valued and respected.
The inspiration for all we do comes from our Catholic faith and is based on the Gospel values of love, honesty, respect and forgiveness. In so doing, we believe our Mission, which is to ‘let your light shine’, comes alive, allowing pupils to feel safe and have the confidence to develop their talents.
Our school mission extends, of course, to staff as well, and every opportunity is given to allow for professional development. The successful applicant will be working in a school that is both welcoming and supportive.
This opportunity has arisen due to the planned retirement of the existing postholder. As such, it offers a wonderful opportunity for a colleague who is looking to progress their career, drive further improvement at St Mary’s and make a tangible difference to the lives of the pupils we serve.
Applicants considering St Mary’s are encouraged to book an appointment and visit as I would be delighted for you to see the school in action.
Phil Thompson
Headteacher