Deputy Headteacher - Preston Bridge School
About the school
Preston Bridge School is an independent special school for pupils aged 6 – 19, situated in Paignton. Our creative, individualised approach to learning, is centred around well-being and skills for independence. From the time our students arrive, we assess their individual interests, passions and desires to build a project based curriculum to meet their needs. In so doing, we ensure they are well prepared to achieve their goals and succeed.
As Deputy Head, you’ll play a pivotal role in shaping the school’s academic vision - designing and leading inspiring, evidence-based learning experiences that unlock potential and nurture curiosity. In partnership with the Headteacher and the wider team, you will help sustain a culture that values creativity, compassion and intellectual challenge.
Our Cultural Pillars
At Spaghetti Bridge, our culture shapes everything we do:
Challenge the Status Quo - We question assumptions, think differently, and create new possibilities for education.
Work with Passion and Joy – We love what we do and bring energy, optimism, and care to our work.
Unsettling yet Inspiring – Growth lives at the edge of comfort; we lean into that space with courage and curiosity.
Tell the Truth, Even When It’s Hard – We lead with honesty, humility, and integrity, because trust changes everything.
About You
You are:
An expert in curriculum, teaching, and learning , with a track record of designing innovative, inclusive provision.
Deeply knowledgeable about SEMH and Autism , and how to create environments where pupils can engage, progress, and flourish.
A reflective and research-informed practitioner who values curiosity and continuous improvement.
A skilled communicator and coach who empowers others through trust, clarity, and collaboration.
Emotionally intelligent, compassionate, and ready to lead with authenticity.
Why join Spaghetti Bridge?
We are a forward-thinking group of independent special schools united by a shared belief: education should be relational, creative, and bold enough to change lives.
You’ll be supported with a comprehensive induction programme , including mentoring from our experienced school leaders, colleagues and Group Support Team. As part of a growing network, you’ll have access to exceptional professional development and the opportunity to collaborate with like-minded leaders shaping the future of specialist education.
At Spaghetti Bridge, we work with passion and joy - for our students, for our craft, and for each other. We care deeply about relationships and are committed to creating an environment where both children and adults develop and flourish.
We encourage early applications and may appoint prior to the closing date.
For more information about our approach to education, please view our website or contact our onboarding team via recruitment@spbridge.co.uk for more information.
Please note that early application is encouraged as we may opt to appoint prior to the advert closing date.
Spaghetti Bridge Ltd are committed to Safeguarding therefore, all employees working at this school must have the ability to work in a way that promotes the safety and wellbeing of our children and young people. All applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding checks appropriate to the post, including checks with Disclosure & Barring Service and employment references. We will request references from where you have worked with either children or adults at risk.
Please be aware that references will be requested prior to interview for roles within our schools and that online searches will be completed on all shortlisted candidates in line with the provisions of Keeping Children Safe in Education.
This post involves working with children and young people considered to be at risk and therefore is exempt from the provisions of the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
We are a diverse and inclusive workplace and strongly encourage suitably qualified…