Senior Deputy Head (Academic & Enrichment) – Sevenoaks Preparatory School

Sevenoaks Preparatory School seeks an exceptional Senior Deputy Head (Academic & Enrichment) to provide strategic leadership of curriculum, teaching and enrichment across Years 3–8.

For September 2026 (or April 2026)

Sevenoaks Preparatory School is a thriving, forward-looking school with a strong reputation for academic excellence, outstanding pastoral care and a rich, inclusive co-curricular programme. The School prides itself on nurturing confident, curious and well-rounded children within a warm, ambitious and values-driven community. Academic endeavour, kindness, creativity and personal growth sit at the heart of daily school life, and relationships between pupils, staff and families are characterised by trust, respect and high expectations.

This is a highly visible role at the centre of the school’s leadership team, suited to a senior leader who believes that academic rigour, pastoral care and enrichment must work in harmony to give pupils the very best foundation for future success.

The successful candidate will lead the academic vision for Years 3–8, ensuring consistently high standards in teaching, learning and assessment, while also championing a vibrant and inclusive co-curricular programme, including the Year 8 post-exam provision. They will play a key role in shaping curriculum design, supporting staff development and ensuring pupils are challenged, supported and inspired. They will contribute to inspection readiness, support smooth progression through the school and into senior schools, and work closely with colleagues to maintain an excellent pupil experience.

As a member of the Senior Leadership Team, they will deputise for the Head when required and help drive the strategic direction of the School. They will also support admissions and retention by representing the School’s academic strengths to prospective families.

The ideal candidate will be a qualified teacher with significant leadership experience in a prep or similar setting, a strong track record of academic leadership, and a genuine passion for enrichment and holistic education. This is a leadership role with real strategic influence and scope to make a lasting impact within a supportive, ambitious community that values kindness, openness and humility.

Interested candidates are invited to contact RSAcademics to arrange a confidential discussion with one of the consultants handing this appointment:

Angela Short, Search Consultant: angelashort@rsacademics.com or

Andrew Nott, Senior Advisor: andrewnott@rsacademics.com

The deadline for receipt of applications is Tuesday 3^rd March 2026 at 10.00am UK time.

Applications for this role will be considered on a rolling basis as they are received. Candidates are therefore encouraged to submit their applications at the earliest opportunity.

Applications should be made electronically to RSAcademics. To submit your application, please click on “Apply Now” and upload your documents according to the instructions provided.

As part of your online application you will be required to upload a covering letter (in PDF format please), which should be addressed to Mr Luke Harrison, Headmaster. The letter should explain your reasons for applying.

If you have any questions about completing your online application, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations (Leadership Appointments) at: applications@rsacademics.com. Jonathan can also be reached by calling our Head Office on +44 (0) 204 6269 791.

Sevenoaks Preparatory School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service.  

This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.  

The safeguarding responsibilities of this post are detailed in the candidate information brochure.  

RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.