Head of English – Independent Day School – Staffordshire

A respected co-educational independent day school in Staffordshire is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Head of English to lead its successful department. The school is known for combining strong academic results with excellent pastoral care and a rich co-curricular programme.

English is one of the schools flagship subjects with consistently high GCSE and A-Level outcomes and strong progression to Russell Group universities. The department plays a central role in shaping students intellectual development confidence and communication skills.

The Role

As Head of English you will provide strategic and academic leadership across KS3KS5. This is both a teaching and leadership role requiring a visible presence in the classroom alongside clear departmental direction.

Your responsibilities will include:

Leading curriculum development and sequencing across all year groups
Teaching English Language and Literature to A-Level
Driving examination outcomes and academic stretch
Line managing and mentoring departmental colleagues
Promoting enrichment such as debating creative writing and theatre visits
Contributing to whole-school academic strategy

The role offers appropriate leadership time to focus on departmental planning and staff development.

The English Department

The department benefits from small class sizes and a strong culture of scholarship. Schemes of work are well-established but open to refinement and innovation under new leadership.

Department strengths include:

Strong GCSE and A-Level performance
High levels of student engagement and literary discussion
Established links with Drama and wider Humanities
Opportunities for extended essay and academic enrichment

There is scope to further develop cross-curricular literacy initiatives and deepen A-Level provision.

The School Environment

Set within attractive grounds in Staffordshire the school blends historic buildings with modern teaching spaces. Students are articulate respectful and academically ambitious creating a purposeful and intellectually engaging learning environment.

Pastoral systems are robust and well-structured and staff are encouraged to contribute to wider school life including clubs societies and enrichment activities.

Facilities include:

Dedicated English classrooms
A well-stocked central library
Sixth Form study and seminar spaces
Performance and lecture facilities

Leadership promotes professional autonomy and academic excellence.

Who Were Looking For

The successful candidate will:

Hold QTS and demonstrate strong academic credentials in English
Have experience teaching to A-Level
Possess proven middle leadership or departmental leadership experience
Show the ability to drive curriculum and assessment improvement
Inspire both staff and students through high expectations

Independent school experience is desirable but not essential for a strong candidate with proven leadership capability.

Whats On Offer

Competitive independent school salary with leadership allowance
Small class sizes and motivated learners
Strong academic culture
Leadership responsibility within a respected institution
Professional development and progression opportunities

This is a significant leadership opportunity for an English specialist seeking to shape and strengthen a key department within a prestigious Staffordshire independent school.