DBS01082/26 - Deputy Head Quality of Education - Longbenton High School

Longbenton High School is an innovative, welcoming and aspirational 11–18 comprehensive school with Sixth Form, located in Longbenton, Newcastle upon Tyne. Serving a diverse community across North Tyneside and neighbouring areas, the school draws students from a broad catchment and enjoys a strong local reputation. With approximately 1000 students on roll — around 180 in each year group from Years 7 to 11 and a growing Sixth Form — the school has been heavily oversubscribed for the past three years.

The school is a Local Authority maintained foundation school within the North Tyneside Learning Trust, a charitable foundation trust that brings together primary, secondary and special schools across the borough. The Trust is not a multi-academy trust; instead, it provides a framework for collaboration, shared expertise and mutual support while preserving each school’s maintained status, local accountability and distinct identity. Longbenton High School remains funded through and accountable to North Tyneside Council, with the Governing Body retaining responsibility as employer and Admissions Authority. This model offers the advantages of partnership and system leadership without the centralised control typical of larger trusts.

Longbenton High School is at an important and exciting stage in its development. Financial stability has improved significantly in recent years, with the school maintaining an in-year balanced position for the past three financial cycles. While a historic deficit remains — currently approximately £420k as the school enters the 2026–27 financial year — robust systems are in place, and the trajectory is positive. The next Headteacher will therefore inherit a school that is financially disciplined, clear-eyed about constraints, and well positioned for sustainable future planning.

The school was judged Good at its most recent full Ofsted inspection in June 2022, representing a clear step forward from the previous inspection. Inspectors recognised strengths in leadership, personal development and the quality of education. High expectations, strong relationships and a culture of care and respect are evident across the school community.

At the heart of school life are the values of Kindness, Integrity, Determination, Manners, Ambition and Positivity (KIDMAP). These values shape behaviour, routines and relationships, and underpin the school’s commitment to knowing students as individuals. Pupils are supported to achieve strong academic outcomes while developing into confident, responsible and socially aware young people.