From September 2026, Delta Academies Trust is proud to launch an extraordinary new opportunity for staff: a unique international secondment to Saint Helena, one of the most remote and remarkable places on Earth.

Located in the South Atlantic Ocean, around 1,200 miles from the west coast of Africa and 2,500 miles from South America, Saint Helena is a 10-by-5-mile tropical island rich in history. With a population of around 4,500, it is perhaps best known as the place of Napoleon Bonaparte’s exile following his escape from Elba in 1815. Today, the island remains a British Overseas Territory with strong ties to the UK, including its education system.

But its isolation brings challenges, particularly in recruitment and access to high-quality professional development.

A Partnership with Purpose

In response, Delta Academies Trust has partnered with Saint Helena to support educational development and create new opportunities for both St Helena students and Delta staff.

Three Delta colleagues specialising in English, science and mathematics will embark on a fully supported one-year secondment at Saint Helena Secondary School.

This is more than a placement, it’s a chance to:

  • Broaden professional experience on a global stage
  • Develop leadership skills in a unique educational context
  • Make an impact on young people’s life chances in St Helena
  • Be part of a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity

“This partnership allows us to support children to thrive, which is our core purpose, but it goes further. It offers our staff a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to grow as leaders, while continuing to deliver meaningful impact beyond the UK.”

Chris McCall, Executive Principal at Delta Academies Trust

Staff Profiles

Meet the staff travelling to Saint Helena in September 2026:

Follow their journey from September across our website and social media as they begin their teaching placement in St Helena.

Phil Toal, Headteacher at Saint Helena Secondary School, shared:


“Delta’s commitment is making a tangible difference to the education of young people on Saint Helena. This partnership reflects a shared belief that geography should never limit opportunity.”