Head of English – Independent Senior School – Staffordshire

A prestigious co-educational independent senior school in Staffordshire is seeking an ambitious and visionary Head of English to lead its highly successful department. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced teacher and leader to shape the future direction of English within a school known for academic excellence strong pastoral care and a rich co-curricular culture.

English sits at the heart of the schools academic identity. GCSE and A-Level outcomes are consistently outstanding with a significant proportion of pupils progressing to competitive university courses in English Law History and related disciplines.

The Role

As Head of English you will provide strategic and academic leadership across Key Stages 35. You will oversee curriculum development mentor staff and ensure that teaching across the department reflects both intellectual depth and pedagogical excellence.

Key responsibilities include:
Leading and managing the English department setting clear academic vision and standards
Teaching English Literature and Language across GCSE and A-Level
Driving innovation in curriculum design while maintaining academic rigour
Supporting Oxbridge and Russell Group university preparation
Managing departmental performance development planning and enrichment

You will have the opportunity to shape reading lists introduce new texts and embed a culture of scholarly discussion across all year groups.

The Department

The English department is well-established collaborative and academically strong. Teachers benefit from:

Small class sizes allowing detailed feedback and high-level discussion
Dedicated English classrooms and seminar spaces
A substantial library with strong literary resources
Regular theatre visits author events and literary competitions
A culture of professional trust and academic autonomy

The department plays a leading role in public speaking competitions creative writing initiatives and cross-curricular Humanities projects.

The School

Set within impressive grounds that combine historic buildings with modern learning spaces the school provides a balanced education that values scholarship character and creativity.

Pupils are motivated articulate and respectful. Behaviour is exemplary and relationships between staff and students are professional and warm. The pastoral system is structured and supportive ensuring students are well-guided academically and personally.

Leadership across the school is forward-thinking yet measured with genuine investment in staff development and wellbeing.

Who Were Looking For

The successful candidate will:
Hold QTS (or equivalent) and a strong academic background in English
Have significant experience teaching GCSE and A-Level English
Demonstrate proven leadership or middle leadership experience
Be academically ambitious and able to stretch high-achieving pupils
Inspire colleagues and foster a collaborative departmental culture

Independent school experience is advantageous but not essential.

Whats On Offer

Competitive leadership salary within the independent sector
Small engaged classes with strong academic focus
High levels of professional autonomy
Generous CPD and leadership development opportunities
Free on-site parking and term-time meals

This is an outstanding leadership opportunity for an experienced English specialist ready to guide a high-performing department within a respected Staffordshire independent school.