Assistant Head Teacher of Secondary
About This Role
We are looking for an outstanding and energetic Assistant Head of Secondary to become part of our Senior Leadership Team. This crucial leadership position is ideal for an ambitious, values-oriented professional dedicated to achieving high standards in teaching, learning, wellbeing, and student outcomes. The ideal candidate will possess strong strategic insight, operational proficiency, and the capability to motivate colleagues, engage parents, and significantly contribute to the ongoing development and excellence of the Secondary phase. As a vital member of the Secondary Senior Leadership Team, the Assistant Head of Secondary will aid in the strategic, academic, and operational leadership of this phase. This role assists the Head of Secondary in pursuing school improvement goals, upholding high expectations, and ensuring a consistent, positive experience for students.
Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership
- Assist the Head of Secondary in executing the school’s vision, values, and strategic improvement initiatives.
- Participate in self-evaluation processes, improvement planning, and prepare for inspections.
- Exemplify high professional standards while fostering a culture of aspiration, inclusion, accountability, and ongoing improvement.
Teaching, Learning and Standards
- Assess the quality of teaching and learning through lesson observations, learning walks, work scrutiny, and student feedback.
- Collaborate closely with Heads of Department, Heads of Year, and curriculum leaders to enhance attainment and accelerate progress.
- Ensure uniformity in curriculum planning, assessment, feedback, and classroom practices throughout the Secondary phase.
- Lead or assist in whole-school or phase-based teaching and learning initiatives.
Data, Assessment and Reporting
- Utilize assessment data to pinpoint trends, strengths, and areas needing development, assisting in targeted intervention strategies.
- Help in developing and refining robust tracking, monitoring, and reporting systems.
- Support the analysis and presentation of student performance data to senior leaders, governors, and external stakeholders. A solid background or interest in data leadership and performance reporting is preferred.
Pastoral Care, Behaviour and Safeguarding
- Uphold high standards of behaviour, attendance, and student conduct within the Secondary school.
- Collaborate with pastoral and inclusion teams to prioritize student wellbeing, safeguarding, and a sense of belonging.
- Professionally engage with parents to address concerns and foster constructive partnerships.
- Maintain and promote a strong safeguarding culture in accordance with school policies and statutory requirements.
Operational Leadership
- Assist in the effective daily management of the Secondary school.
- Contribute to timetabling, event planning, examination processes, enrichment programmes, and school routines.
- Ensure policies and procedures are consistently and effectively implemented.
Staff Development and Performance
- Line manage designated middle leaders or teaching staff as necessary.
- Participate in appraisal, performance management, and professional development processes.
- Offer coaching, mentoring, and leadership support to enhance team capacity.
- Encourage collaboration, professional dialogue, and opportunities for leadership development.
Parental and Community Engagement
- Foster strong communication with parents to support student progress and wellbeing.
- Represent the school at meetings, events, and community initiatives.
- Support initiatives that promote student leadership, enrichment, and broader participation.
Professional Expectations
- Show a commitment to continuous professional learning and leadership development.
- Stay updated on current educational research, curriculum advancements, and inspection frameworks.
- Adhere to safeguarding responsibilities and uphold the professional standards expected of senior leaders.
Note: This job description provides a general overview of the Assistant Head of Secondary role. Responsibilities may adapt in response to school priorities, and additional duties may be assigned by the Head of Secondary or Principal as necessary.