Senior Deputy Head (Pastoral) – Aldenham School

Elstree, Hertfordshire

This is a wonderful opportunity for an experienced senior or middle leader to work with the Head of The Aldenham Foundation on exciting strategic changes and development.

For January 2027

Founded in 1597 by Richard Platt, Master of the Worshipful Company of Brewers, Aldenham is set in a beautiful rural location just 13 miles from central London. Aldenham Senior School shares the lovely 110 acre site with Aldenham Prep School.

Aldenham has a distinctive culture and ethos, recognising its responsibility to prepare pupils not only for examinations but also for the opportunities and responsibilities of adult life. The School encourages pupils to develop the knowledge, character and confidence needed to make a positive contribution to the world beyond school. At Aldenham, every pupil is known and valued as an individual, and the curriculum, co-curricular programme and pastoral care are carefully designed to help them flourish, building resilience, curiosity and integrity so that they leave as well-rounded, balanced young adults ready to lead fulfilling lives and contribute meaningfully to society.

The Senior Deputy Head reports to the Head of the Foundation and deputises for the Head in their absence. They will be the DSL across the foundation and be supported in their work by a Lead DDSL and the wider team of DDSLs. This is a resident role; the Deputy Head Pastoral is expected to be resident on site during term time. Family accommodation is provided.

For a confidential initial conversation about the position, please contact:

Camilla Oulton: CamillaOulton@rsacademics.com

The deadline for receipt of applications is Tuesday 5th May 2026 at 10.00am UK time.

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. 

You should submit the following (both in PDF format):

  • a completed application form
  • a covering letter addressed to Mrs Alex Hems, Head of Foundation. The letter should explain your reasons for applying.

If you have any questions about uploading your application documents, please contact Jonathan Barnes, Head of Operations, at Applications@rsacademics.com or on +44 (0) 204 6269 791.  

  • Aldenham School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
  • Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and 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 the role are indicated in the candidate information.  
  • RSAcademics is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and to promoting diversity and inclusion in schools.

Key Dates

The closing date for receipt of applications is 10.00am UK time on Tuesday 5th May 2026

Preliminary interviews will take place with RSAcademics between Thursday 7th and Monday 11th May inclusive

Final interviews will take place at the School on Tuesday 19th May