Thank you for your interest in the post of Deputy Headteacher at St. John Vianney Catholic Primary School, a large, vibrant and highly successful two‑form entry Catholic school in the heart of Blackpool. With a Nursery, a SEND provision for 16 children with EHCPs, and a proud reputation as one of the town’s top-performing schools, we are a community with ambition, heart and a strong sense of purpose.

St John Vianney is a school where children flourish academically, spiritually and personally. Our warm, welcoming atmosphere and strong Catholic ethos shine through everything we do. Children know what it means to be Sincere, Joyful and Virtuous (SJV)—and they live this out each day through excellent behaviour, enthusiasm for learning and a genuine love of school life.

We are also proud to be one of only 34 Department for Education English Hubs in the country, recognised for our exceptional practice in early reading and phonics. This national role means we welcome school leaders and teachers from across the region, provide training and model exemplary practice. As a result, we require a high‑calibre Deputy Headteacher who is confident, outward‑facing and able to represent the school and Hub professionally. You will need the capacity and credibility to act up for the Headteacher when required, ensuring strong, calm and strategic leadership in their absence.

We are seeking to appoint an exceptional leader, a dynamic and inspirational practising Catholic who will support the Headteacher in continuing to drive our school forward. Could this be you?

If so, you would:
• Be a practising Catholic with a strong faith and a deep commitment to our school’s Catholic ethos
• Be aspirational and passionate about securing the highest quality of education for every child
• Place safeguarding and wellbeing at the heart of every decision
• Be a role model who inspires and motivates through integrity, high standards and positivity
• Be an experienced, highly effective leader who can work strategically alongside the Headteacher
• Build strong relationships with staff, children, parents, governors, parish and the wider Trust
• Communicate with clarity, purpose and vision
• Have the professionalism and presence to represent the school and the English Hub externally
• Be able to confidently lead the school in the Headteacher’s absence when required

In return, we can offer you:
• Support, guidance and continuous professional development from the Headteacher
•Competitive salary
• Wonderful, enthusiastic children who love to learn and are proud of their school
• Caring, talented and hardworking staff who welcome fresh ideas and innovation
• A very well‑resourced and forward‑thinking school with exciting plans for continued growth
• A knowledgeable and supportive Governing Body committed to your development as a leader
• The opportunity to work in a high-performing school with an excellent reputation locally and nationally
• A unique leadership experience within an accredited English Hub, influencing early reading practice across the region
• A school community driven by service, collaboration and a commitment to raising standards for all

Please refer to the application pack for the job description, person specification and further details. 

BEBCMAT is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all learners, staff and visitors. All posts are subject to:
● DBS
● Medical clearance
● Verification of qualifications and National Insurance number.
● Two references including a judgement about suitability to work with children.
● A member of the interview panel will be trained in implementing Child Protection procedures.
● In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025, online search be carried out.
For teaching positions, barred list checks and prohibition from teaching checks will be carried out.
For leadership positions, section 128 checks will be performed.

Closing date for applications: Monday 13th April 2026 – 9am
Shortlisting date: Tuesday 14th April 2026
Interview date: Monday 20th / Tuesday 21st April 2026

Post Details
Salary: Leadership scale L12 to L16
Contract: Permanent, Full Time
Required: 1st September 2026