Head of English

Head of English | South Thamesmead Leadership Scale L8-L12 (£65,642 - £72,010) Permanent, Full-Time | Start Date: September 2026 Are you an inspiring educator with the vision to lead a flagship department? We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of English to join a vibrant 3-19 Academy housed in a stunning, award-winning building designed by Norman Foster. Located in the heart of South Thamesmead, our academy is a community of drive and ambition. With excellent rail links and easy access via the Elizabeth Line, we offer a high-achieving environment where innovation in the curriculum is not just welcomed-it's expected. The Role As the Head of English, you will be the driving force behind student progress across KS3, KS4, and KS5. You will be accountable for setting the strategic direction of the department, ensuring that every student-from those just discovering a love for literature to those heading for top-tier universities-receives a world-class education. Key Responsibilities: Strategic Leadership: Formulate and implement rigorous department improvement plans. Curriculum Excellence: Develop innovative schemes of work that integrate new technologies and Learning to Learn strategies. Team Development: Build, recruit, and mentor a motivated team of specialists using coaching models to ensure peak performance. Literacy Advocacy: Lead the academy-wide literacy strategy to raise standards across all disciplines. Quality Assurance: Manage monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure outstanding teaching is the department standard. What We Are Looking For We want to hear from leaders who are passionate about English and even more passionate about social mobility. Qualifications: QTS (or equivalent) and a strong relevant undergraduate degree. Experience: A minimum of three years of teaching experience with a proven track record of raising student achievement. Leadership: Experience managing change, leading others, and implementing successful monitoring and review processes. Skills: Exceptional ICT skills and a flair for presenting to diverse audiences, from students to governors. Mindset: A collaborative leader who views coaching as the primary tool for professional growth. Why Join Us? We don't just invest in our students; we invest heavily in our staff. You will benefit from a culture of collaboration and a clear career pathway through our dedicated Institute of Teaching and Leadership. The Benefits Package: Competitive Salary: L8-L12 (Outer London Scale). Financial Rewards: Performance and Loyalty Bonus + Outer London Allowance. Wellbeing: Comprehensive Wellbeing Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme. Security: Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS). Environment: A purpose-built, architecturally renowned working environment with state-of-the-art facilities. Application Details If you have the expertise to lead a department toward excellence and the ambition to grow within a leading educational network, we want to meet you. Please note: We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the permanent right to work in the UK. Apply Today to shape the future of English education in South Thamesmead.