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- Tasks: Lead the English department and inspire students in a supportive environment.
- Company: Join Totnes Independent School, known for its non-punitive culture and small class sizes.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, staff wellbeing programs, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while working in a positive, collaborative atmosphere.
- Qualifications: QTS, degree in English preferred, and leadership experience in education.
- Other info: Early applications encouraged; flexible hours and part-time options available.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
Head of English – Totnes Independent School
- Multiple Locations
- Multiple Terms
- Competitive
Teach at a school where staff are friendly and students are happy!
We are looking for an inspiring and enthusiastic English Teacher who is passionate about English and literacy to join our team in September 2025 and lead the English department.
We are looking for a skillful and professional English Teacher to join our school, add value through positive interactions, work collaboratively with students, staff and families, and bring a positive, solutions-focused approach to facilitate excellent progress. Teaching students of all abilities up to GCSE.
Job details
Skills and Knowledge
- Experience of working with highly aspirational and able students and leading them confidently through GCSE English.
- QTS
- A degree in English is desirable.
- Experience in leadership in a school environment.
- Excellent interpersonal skills with both adults and children.
- Willingness and ability to work as part of a team.
- Ability to communicate effectively both verbally and in writing.
- Ability to prioritise and organise your work.
- Ability to work effectively to a high standard and meet deadlines.
- Knowledge of Health and Safety & Safeguarding/Child Protection procedures.
- Ability to act as a secondary form tutor and offer enrichment and extracurricular activities.
Prospective candidates are very welcome to visit the school or make contact for an informal chat. Please contact Jennifer Carter, HR Manager for initial enquiries –
Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy if a suitable candidate is found.
Advantages of working with us:
- Small classes – usually no more than 12 students
- Outstanding inspection in May 2024 with a significant strength awarded for student wellbeing
- Within the top 5% nationally for progress
- Staff wellbeing programme
- Excellent behaviour throughout the school
- Many opportunities for professional development
- Around 70% contact time
- Flexibility and autonomy
- Competitive salary and pension
About us:
Totnes Independent School is a non-punitive, independent school for children aged between 11 and 16. By having small class sizes, a non-punitive culture, an ethos of LARS (Love, Acceptance, Respect and Safety), no homework, a strong personal development programme, and a focus on nurturing relationships, we are able to give our students the confidence and support to enjoy their learning and realise their full potential.
Our outstanding recent Independent Schools Inspectorate report can be found HERE .
Totnes Independent School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undertake a criminal record check via the DBS. Transgender applicants may wish to use the DBS service’s sensitive applications route.
Totnes Independent School is an equal opportunity employer that is committed to diversity and inclusion in the workplace. We prohibit discrimination and harassment of any kind based on race, colour, sex, religion, sexual orientation, national origin, disability, genetic information, pregnancy, or any other protected characteristic as outlined by law.
Interviews to be arranged following application.
Full-time (part-time considered for the right applicant)
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Head of English - Totnes Independent School employer: Devon County Council
Contact Detail:
Devon County Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of English - Totnes Independent School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the ethos of Totnes Independent School, especially their focus on LARS (Love, Acceptance, Respect, and Safety). This understanding will help you align your teaching philosophy with the school's values during discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare to discuss your experience with small class sizes and how you can effectively engage students of varying abilities. Highlight specific strategies you've used in the past to foster a positive learning environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership experience by providing examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in a school setting. Be ready to discuss how you can inspire and motivate your colleagues in the English department.
✨Tip Number 4
Since the school values professional development, think about how you can contribute to and benefit from ongoing training opportunities. Be prepared to share your ideas on fostering a culture of continuous improvement within the team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of English - Totnes Independent School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in teaching English, particularly with GCSE students. Emphasize any leadership roles you've held and your ability to work collaboratively with both students and staff.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for English and literacy. Discuss your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with the values of Totnes Independent School, particularly their focus on student wellbeing and personal development.
Highlight Relevant Skills: In your application, clearly outline your interpersonal skills and ability to communicate effectively. Mention any experience you have with safeguarding and child protection procedures, as this is crucial for the role.
Prepare for the Interview: If invited for an interview, be ready to discuss your teaching strategies and how you would lead the English department. Think about examples of how you've positively impacted student progress and how you can contribute to the school's ethos of Love, Acceptance, Respect, and Safety.
How to prepare for a job interview at Devon County Council
✨Show Your Passion for English
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for English and literacy during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and how you plan to continue fostering a love for the subject.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Highlight your previous leadership roles in educational settings. Discuss how you've successfully led teams or departments, and be prepared to share strategies you've used to motivate both staff and students.
✨Emphasize Interpersonal Skills
Since excellent interpersonal skills are crucial for this role, be ready to discuss how you've built positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues. Provide examples of how you've effectively communicated and collaborated in a team environment.
✨Prepare for Questions on Safeguarding
Given the importance of safeguarding in this role, familiarize yourself with relevant policies and procedures. Be prepared to discuss how you would ensure a safe and supportive environment for all students.
