Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation

St. Andrews International; City of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

An esteemed independent school in London is seeking a Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation to lead the development of an innovative educational ethos. The ideal candidate will possess strategic insight and a passion for inspiring both staff and students. Responsibilities include driving the school's strategic vision and fostering a culture of high performance. Benefit from a competitive salary, professional development opportunities, and a supportive community.

Benefits

Competitive salary dependent on qualifications and experience

Teacher’s Pension

Free lunch during term time

School holidays and public holidays

School fee discount

Exclusive third-party discounts

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Proven ability to drive strategic vision in an educational context.
• Experience in embedding innovation and digital transformation.
• Deep understanding of curriculum and pedagogy.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of an innovative educational ethos.
• Drive the school's strategic vision through effective partnerships.
• Foster a high-performing culture within the school.

Skills

Strategic insight

Empathy

Visionary leadership

Innovation in education

Collaboration

Education

Significant educational leadership experience

Job description

Cognita and Alleyn’s Schools Group Partnership

Cognita has formed a partnership with the Alleyn’s Schools Group to establish two leading independent day schools in north London. This pioneering collaboration brings together one of the world’s most influential education groups, Cognita, which educates over 100,000 students across 21 countries, and Alleyn’s, south London’s finest co‑educational day school and Co‑educational School of the Year 2025.

As part of this partnership, North Bridge House Regent’s Park Prep and North Bridge House Hampstead are becoming Alleyn’s schools. Alleyn’s Regent’s Park successfully transitioned this September, welcoming pupils aged 4–11. Alleyn’s Hampstead will follow in September 2026, offering an exceptional education for pupils aged 2–18 and bringing the distinctive Alleyn’s ethos of academic excellence, creativity, and care to north London.

About the role

Alleyn’s Senior Hampstead (11–18 year olds) is seeking an exceptional and visionary Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation to lead the development of a forward‑thinking educational ethos that prepares students for a rapidly changing world. This pivotal role will drive the school’s strategic vision by embedding innovation, digital transformation, and a future‑ready mindset across teaching, learning, and operations. With a particular focus on the ethical and creative integration of AI, the development of purposeful partnerships, and the cultivation of an inspired, high‑performing culture, the successful candidate will help shape the next chapter of Alleyn’s growth within the Cognita family.

To view our candidate pack, click here.

Who we are looking for

We are seeking an inspirational and forward‑thinking leader who combines strategic insight with authenticity, empathy, and drive. The ideal candidate will be an innovator at heart—someone who embraces change, champions collaboration, and leads with both vision and integrity. They will bring outstanding educational experience, a deep understanding of curriculum and pedagogy, and the confidence to challenge convention in the pursuit of excellence. Above all, they will embody the values of Alleyn’s Hampstead, inspiring staff, students, and the wider community to think boldly and help shape a future where learning is dynamic, inclusive, and transformative.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary dependent on qualifications and experience
• Teacher’s Pension
• Free lunch provided during term time
• School holidays and public holidays
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third‑party discounts
• Professional development opportunities

How to Apply

Please complete your application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: Sunday 4th January 2026. Early applications are encouraged, as we reserve the right to interview and appoint the right applicant before the closing date.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website, and details on the recruitment of ex‑offenders can be found within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and to treating all employees with dignity and respect, regardless of background.