DULWICH PREPARATORY SCHOOLS TRUST
44,775 - 47,865 per year
Dulwich
Full-time
10th November 2025
ASSISTANT NETWORK MANAGER Candidate Information HEAD MASTER’S WELCOME Dear Candidate As the Head Master of Dulwich Prep & Senior, I am honoured to introduce you to this incredible school. For over 140 years, the school has inspired generations of boys aged 3 to 13 (and Nursery-aged girls) to fulfil their dreams and aspirations. In September 2025, we will open a senior school and extend our provision from 2 to 16 years, starting with Year 9 and organically growing to our first cohort sitting their G C S Es in the summer of 2028. We are privileged to have developed a specific pedagogy that enables critical thinking, encourages exploration, and facilitates engaging communication skills while recognising that each child is on their journey of discovery. We passionately believe in the whole child. Therefore, our broad and enriched education will enable our pupils to go beyond the expected and toward the exceptional. We seek to work in partnership with parents and carers to embed the Dulwich Prep & Senior Values, first and foremost, as this underpins the character skills required in our fast-paced modern world. This expectation enables each child to put empathy and compassion at the forefront of their decision-making. It is the catalyst for each child to be successful and resilient in whatever they turn their hand to while on their educational journey and beyond. Above all, we seek an individual who will embody the Dulwich Prep & Senior Values, modelling them to our young people to ensure that pupils deploy empathy and compassion in their decision- making. We look forward to receiving your application. Miss Louise Davidson Head Master ABOUT US Located in Dulwich, a picturesque village known for its exceptional schools and abundant open spaces, our school benefits from its proximity to one of the world’s most cosmopolitan cities. We are situated across two sites covering 29 acres, including extensive sports fields and woodland, which enables the school to offer a unique blend of a country atmosphere in a suburban setting. Dulwich Prep & Senior has been a leading preparatory school in England since 1885. Throughout the years, countless boys and Nursery-aged girls have benefited from our school’s rich history and forward-thinking approach. We have always embraced change, kept pace with pedagogy and technology, and, most importantly, are passionate about each pupil and staff member’s individual journey. As the UK’s largest boys’ independent preparatory school, we enrol over 800 pupils aged 2 to 13. Our selection process is twofold: we look for pupils who generally rank in the top 20% nationally based on standardised tests, but more importantly, we seek children who will thrive and make the most of all that our school has to offer. We take great pride in inspiring excellence with our Values ethos permeating every aspect of our curriculum . and co-curricular activities. Academic excellence is a top priority, with 12 essential skills taught for success in education and beyond. Along with the Values, these 20 attributes empower boys to thrive in any future they choose. Expectations are high! We develop independent thinkers who make decisions based on empathy and compassion, which leads to their success and resilience. Our Governors play a crucial role in maintaining Dulwich Prep & Senior’s position in a competitive market. Their expertise allows us to provide an innovative and challenging curriculum alongside a high-quality learning environment, by attracting excellent staff, implementing up-to-date technology, and continuously improving our modern facilities. Dulwich Prep & Senior provides a well-rounded education focusing on academic excellence, character development, and personal growth. We strive to nurture boys to become confident, compassionate, and prepared to impact the world positively. For the boys attending this school, their journey goes beyond exam preparation; it prepares them for life. OUR VALUES Our eight values are the heart of our school and provide a powerful educational framework as well as being strong values for life. By demonstrating Love, Courage, Gratitude, Humility, Justice, Service, Self- Discipline, and Honesty, our pupils gain greater insight into themselves, others, and the ever-changing world in which they live. We have formed four value pairings, each with an emotive statement that together encapsulate the spirit of Dulwich Prep & Senior, making our values truly unique to our school. We advocate the transformative power of love and service. We encourage our pupils to make heartfelt contributions that uplift others. This fosters an environment where pupils support one another, building a culture of mutual respect and collaboration. Through acts of kindness and selfless service, our collective passion creates a ripple effect that enriches lives and spreads joy far beyond our school. By acting with Love & Service, these values create our home for kindness and community. We inspire our pupils to pursue their aspirations with unwavering courage and seize every opportunity to learn and grow. We cultivate self-discipline in our boys, encouraging them to prioritise long-term achievements over short-term gratifications. They learn to take responsibility for their actions, seek help when needed, and strive for excellence in all they do. By acting with Courage & Self- Discipline, these values create our passion for excellence and growth. We champion honesty and justice, urging our boys to embrace truth and authenticity in all aspects of their lives. We teach our pupils to empathise with others, to be respectful, and to be accepting of another’s perspective. We empower our pupils to act with integrity, be upstanding in their beliefs, and communicate their perspectives respectfully. We ensure that everyone feels valued within our close-knit community and that our boys understand that greater satisfaction can come from helping others. Our boys develop a strong sense of justice, understanding and advocating for what is right. Our pupils understand the power of gratitude and humility and how they are key to having a happy and fulfilling life. By acting with Honesty & Justice, these values create our spirit for bravery and integrity. By acting with Gratitude & Humility, these values create our mindset for respect and appreciation. JOB DESCRIPTION The Assistant Network Manager is a key member of the Network team, supporting the design, implementation, and day-to-day operation of the school’s IT infrastructure. The post-holder will take a leading role in ensuring the security, resilience, and performance of the network, and will act as a deputy to the Network Manager. This role includes direct line management of network technicians and/or IT support staff, ensuring the effective delivery of support services across the institution. A key responsibility is also to champion and embed strong cybersecurity practices, proactively managing risks and supporting compliance with relevant frameworks and legislation. DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES Network & Infrastructure Management Cybersecurity & Data Protection Management & Leadership • Assist in the planning, implementation, and • Act as a lead point of contact for cybersecurity • Provide day-to-day line management of IT/network maintenance of the school’s core IT infrastructure, including LAN/WAN, wireless networks, firewalls, internet access, and server systems. • Monitor network performance and availability and proactively address potential issues or bottlenecks. • Manage the deployment and lifecycle of networked devices (e.g., desktops, laptops, printers, mobile devices, school public address systems, VoIP phones etc.). • Oversee the institution’s server environment (e.g., Windows Server, ProxMox, virtualisation platforms such as Hyper-V or VMware). • Assist in reviewing network best practices and documentation of the network infrastructure. within the IT team. • With the Network Manager, develop, maintain, and enforce network and system security protocols and procedures. • Monitor for cybersecurity threats and vulnerabilities using appropriate tools and platforms. • Coordinate with 3rd parties and partners to conduct regular vulnerability scans, penetration tests, and risk assessments. • Ensure compliance with data protection legislation (e.g., GDPR), safeguarding policies, and relevant cybersecurity frameworks (e.g., Cyber Essentials, ISO 27001). • With the Network Manager, work with 3rd parties and security partners on incident response planning and support investigations in the event of data breaches or security incidents. technicians or administrators, including task allocation, supervision, and performance review. • Act as a deputy to the Network Manager in their absence, including taking a leadership role in projects and key operational decisions. • Support the professional development of junior team members, identifying training needs and mentoring as required. • Help plan and deliver strategic IT projects and upgrades in coordination with the Network Manager and senior leadership. Support Services & Documentation • Provide advanced technical support (2nd/3rd line) for escalated incidents, acting as a senior technical authority within the IT support structure. • Ensure accurate and comprehensive documentation of the network architecture, configurations, and standard operating procedures. • Maintain and update IT asset inventories and software license records. • Communicate effectively with teaching and support staff to ensure IT systems meet educational and operational needs. PERSONAL SPECIFICATION Essential Qualifications & Experience Desirable • Degree in a relevant IT field or equivalent • Experience working in an educational setting (e.g., professional experience. school, college, university). • Professional certifications in networking or cybersecurity (e.g., CompTIA Network+, Microsoft Certified: Azure Administrator, Cisco CCNA, CompTIA Security+, or similar). • Substantial experience in network administration and infrastructure support. • Familiarity with safeguarding responsibilities and the role of IT in supporting child protection policies. • Knowledge of cloud-based systems (e.g., Microsoft 365, Azure AD, Intune). • Understanding of ITIL practices and service desk • Experience in managing and supporting Azure AD, management. Group Policy, DNS, DHCP, and virtualised environments. • Experience and familiarity with the Microsoft Admin Centre Stack (Identity, Intune, Exchange, SharePoint, Teams and Power Automate etc.) • Demonstrable experience in implementing or managing cybersecurity measures in a complex environment. • Prior supervisory or team leadership experience. Skills & Attributes • Excellent team leader and organisational skills. • Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities. • Effective communicator with both technical and non-technical stakeholders. • Ability to manage multiple priorities and work under pressure. • Commitment to promoting a secure, safe, and inclusive digital environment. WORKING AT DULWICH PREP & SENIOR Dulwich Prep & Senior is an inspiring and vibrant place to work. We have a large yet incredibly warm community of passionate teachers, inquisitive pupils, a hard-working and friendly support team and ambitious parents. Together, we create a supportive environment that is committed to achieving excellence. Working at DPS means being part of a team that cares about your continued professional development and teaching journey. Whether you join us at the beginning, middle or end of your career, you will be guided, supported and encouraged every step to achieve your goals. For example, our CPD might involve training for whole school initiatives, going on ‘Learning Walks’ around the school, participating in a Lesson Study, or seeking further formal academic qualifications. We are proud to be members of the Teacher Development Trust, which supports schools focused on innovation and evidence-based learning. In addition, we work with Initial Teacher Training institutions such as St Mary’s University, Twickenham and The Cambridge Partnership to develop new teachers and keep up to date with the latest research and pedagogy. Staff are encouraged to participate in as many of the vast array of sporting and drama activities as possible at the Prep. From all- nighter charity swims to Saturday park runs to our fabulous drama productions; there’s always something going on at DPS, where hidden talents are celebrated. REMUNERATION TERMS & CONDITIONS • Salary of £44,775 to £47,865. • Generous defined contribution pension scheme. • Life assurance and Income protection insurance (academic staff). • Free school lunches. • Enhanced sickness, maternity, paternity, and adoption pay entitlements. • Free access to our School Counsellor and School Nurse. • Cycle to work scheme. • Wide range of professional development opportunities. • School fee remission. • Easter and Summer holiday camp discounts. • Healthcare Cash Plan scheme. • Employee assistance programme. • 9.00am to 5.00pm, Monday to Friday (one hour’s unpaid break during the day). • Some out-of-hours work may be required for system upgrades and maintenance. • All INSET days, Open Days, Celebration Day and all pertinent events listed in the school calendar. • Holiday: 25 days, plus Bank Holidays. • Depending on the school’s requirements at any time, these hours are subject to the terms and conditions of a Contract of Employment and to amendment by the Head Master from time to time. • Staff may be called to perform other duties that the Head Master considers reasonable and commensurate with the grading and designation of the post. • The first six months of this role will be a probationary period during which your suitability for the position will be assessed. The school reserves the right to extend probationary periods if it believes such an extension is necessary. STAFF BENEFITS HEALTH & WELLBEING FINANCIAL WELLBEING Healthcare Cash Plan • Medical, including dental and optical, treatment, access to a virtual GP, skin health tracker and the 'mProve' yourself App. Employee Assistance Programme • Provides free and confidential advice, including up to eight face-to-face counselling sessions. School Counsellor & Nurse • Access to School Counsellor and School Nurse during term time. Wellbeing Initiatives • Sky Lounge, TGIF and staff room treats. Physical EXERCISE • Discounted gym membership and Cycle to Work scheme. Meals & Refreshments • Breakfast (for a small charge), Morning snack and lunch, coffee and tea, and plant- based milks available. Occupational Health • Professional help to both staff and the school where work-related adjustments may be required. Pay & Pension • Generous pension scheme. • Pay policy including regular benchmarking of our salary scales. • Pension salary exchange scheme. Protection • • Life assurance. Income protection insurance (academic staff only). School Fees • 25% discount, after which any further discount is means-tested. • Easter and summer holiday camp discounts. Financial Support • High street discounts. • Emergency financial assistance. ADDITIONAL BENEFITS • School laptop provided to staff (where relevant to the role). • 175 teaching days per year (190 in the maintained sector). • Smaller class sizes, great teaching resources and higher PPA time. • Staff Accommodation may be available. FAMILY FRIENDLY & FLEXIBLE WORKING ARRANGMENTS Enhanced Leave • Enhanced sickness, maternity, paternity, adoption, dependents, carers, and bereavement leave entitlements. Flexible working policy. Working Hours • • Part-time and Term-time working. • Flexibility to work from home (only applies to certain roles and with agreement). Inclusion • • Disability Confident employer. Life event recognition PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT INSET and twilight training. Career Development • • Career pathways. • Mentoring or career coaching. • Full CPD programme. Qualifications • Early career teacher programme. • National professional qualifications support. • Apprenticeships. • Financial support for professional qualifications. APPLICATION & APPOINTMENT APPLICATION & INTERVIEW PROCESS A completed Application Form and a Cover Letter explaining your suitability for this role should be emailed to Tamsin Hutson, Human Resources Manager. Please also read the accompanying Application & Recruitment Process Explanatory Note. We reserve the right to appoint at any time during the recruitment process. • Closing Date: Monday 10 November 2025, 9.00am • Interview Date: Week Beginning 10 November 2025 • Start Date: Immediate start available, subject to satisfactory referencing and vetting process.. APPOINTMENT Any offer to a successful candidate will be conditional upon the following: • The agreement of a mutually acceptable start date and your entering into a contract incorporating the school’s standard terms and conditions • Receipt of at least two references which are satisfactory to the school. • Verification of identity and qualifications, including evidence of the right to work in the UK. • A satisfactory enhanced criminal records check through the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) and clearance of the Children’s Barred List, and confirmation that you are not disqualified from providing childcare. • Verification of your medical fitness for the role. • Satisfactory completion of the probationary period. • Any further checks that the school deems necessary if you have lived or worked outside of the UK, which will include an overseas criminal records check or certificate of good conduct and may include professional references. EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES & SAFEGUARDING EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES Dulwich Prep & Senior is committed to the equal treatment of all current and prospective employees and does not condone discrimination based on age, disability, sex, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race or ethnicity, religion or belief, gender identity, or marriage and civil partnership. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and respected for their unique perspectives and contributions. Candidates will only be assessed against relevant criteria (i.e., skills, qualifications, abilities, experience) in selection and recruitment. In accordance with the Disability Discrimination Act, Dulwich Prep & Senior seeks to treat those with disabilities as favourably as those without disabilities. Accordingly, we will make reasonable arrangements, wherever practicable, to avoid putting those with disabilities at a disadvantage. SAFEGUARDING Dulwich Prep & Senior is committed to safeguarding and promoting children’s and young people’s welfare and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening and training appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, online checks, and an enhanced criminal records check with the Disclosure and Barring Service. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds. We believe in fostering a diverse and inclusive work environment where all employees are valued and respected for their unique perspectives and contributions. We are proud members of the Schools Inclusion Alliance and the Government’s Disability Confident Scheme.