Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation

Breaside Preparatory School; City of London; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious independent school in London is seeking a visionary Deputy Head – Strategy and Innovation. The ideal candidate will drive the strategic vision of the school, embedding innovation and digital transformation in teaching and operations. They should possess outstanding educational experience and the ability to inspire a transformative learning environment for students aged 11-18. Competitive salary and benefits are offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary dependent on qualifications and experience

Teacher’s Pension

Free lunch during term time

School fee discount

Professional development opportunities

Qualifications

• Outstanding educational experience with a deep understanding of curriculum and pedagogy.
• Experience in leading strategic initiatives and embedding innovation.
• Confidence to challenge convention in pursuit of excellence.

Responsibilities

• Lead the development of an educational ethos preparing students for a changing world.
• Drive the school’s strategic vision integrating innovation into teaching and operations.
• Inspire staff and students to cultivate a high-performing culture.

Skills

Strategic insight

Collaboration

Innovation

Educational 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.