Head of English

Head of English

The Role

We are looking to appoint a qualified and experienced individual to take on this middle leadership role. The Head of English will be responsible for leading and developing the English program throughout the secondary school. This position oversees a team of six staff members within the English Department, directing their efforts, managing the English curriculum, handling reporting and examination outcomes, and enhancing teaching and learning practices. The Head of English will report directly to the Deputy Head Academic and the Head, collaborating closely with Key Stage Coordinators and other Department Heads.

Person Specification

The ideal candidate will demonstrate many or all of the following qualities:

Ø Personal integrity, intellectual adaptability, and emotional awareness

Ø A dedication to teamwork, flexibility, and a collaborative spirit, with the ability to build effective relationships across the school community

Ø A sense of humor and perspective, along with the capability to manage oneself successfully, particularly under stress

Ø A keen attention to detail, as well as the ability to maintain a broad perspective

Ø Proficiency in analyzing and presenting educational data

Ø A strong enthusiasm for enhancing Teaching and Learning

Ø A good degree in a relevant field

Ø Proven teaching experience

Ø The ability to earn trust and respect from colleagues, students, and relevant stakeholders

Ø High levels of administrative efficiency and effective communication skills

Ø An interest in the co-curricular activities of the School

Roles and Responsibilities of the Head of English

While this job description outlines the scope of responsibilities, it should not be seen as exhaustive and may evolve over time.

Strategic and General Management

Ø To contribute to the development, communication, and implementation of a vision for Teaching and Learning within the School

Ø To oversee the development of engaging and rigorous schemes of work from Key Stage 3 through to GCSE and A-Level

Ø To coordinate trips, academic societies, and events that promote English, including support for university applications

Ø To manage risk assessments and safeguarding within the department

Ø To oversee the progress and inventory of the English section of the library

Ø To assist with the daily management of the school

Ø To regularly participate in school events as required

Ø To teach approximately two-thirds of a regular timetable

Academic Policy and Management

Ø To lead the formulation of academic policy within the Department

Ø To manage and enhance the English curriculum, assessing its implementation and effects

Ø To collaborate with the Head regarding staffing within the English Department

Ø To oversee the administration of option selections

Ø To guide the Department’s Development Planning cycle

Ø To take the lead on Academic Data, including Assessment and Reporting

Ø To refine the academic budgeting process within the department, ensuring the efficient use of resources, including IT

Ø To compile predicted grades and conduct exam analysis

Ø To utilize data to inform practices, expectations, targets, and teaching methodologies

Ø To monitor curriculum coverage, continuity, and progression for all students, including those of high ability and those with special educational or linguistic needs.

Leading Staff

Ø To assist with the recruitment process for new staff

Ø To provide guidance on the deployment of teaching staff members

Ø To offer support and advice to English Department members and participate in their appraisal

Ø To lead subject meetings, organizing agendas and drafting minutes, ensuring all documentation is effectively distributed and stored in the department’s area on the school system

Ø To spearhead and support ongoing improvements in teaching and learning standards within the department

Ø To provide support and guidance to English staff and lead the Department Review

Ø To collaborate with and advise Learning Support

Ø To coordinate efforts with the Careers Advisor

Ø To ensure that the classroom environment is visually stimulating and engaging

Ø To assist in the annual planning of a staff CPD program

Ø To monitor and provide feedback on schemes of work

Parental Engagement

Ø To address concerns raised by parents, students, and staff as needed

Ø To manage and advise on parental communication regarding academic delivery and progress

Ø To be accessible from the day before public examination results are released and thereafter to counsel students and parents.