At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the English department and inspire students from Reception to Year 8.
- Company: Join a highly regarded prep school in beautiful Hertfordshire.
- Benefits: Enjoy small class sizes, a supportive community, and opportunities for personal growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of English teaching in a nurturing environment that values creativity and critical thinking.
- Qualifications: Previous teaching experience and strong subject knowledge are essential.
- Other info: Get involved in a vibrant extra-curricular programme and make a real impact.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
Head of English
Permanent | Inner London Pay Scale + TLR
Start Date: September 2026
Location: Tower Hamlets
An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an ambitious and inspiring Head of English to join a high-performing secondary school in Tower Hamlets from September 2026.
This is a permanent role within an Ofsted Outstanding school, supported by a strong, visible and highly supportive Senior Leadership Team. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated English department and play a key role in driving continued excellence in teaching and learning.
The Role
As Head of English, you will:
Lead, manage and develop a successful English department
Drive high standards of teaching, learning and achievement across KS3 and KS4 (KS5 where applicable)
Design and deliver an ambitious, inclusive and engaging English curriculum
Support, coach and develop staff within the department
Use data effectively to inform planning and raise attainment
Contribute to whole-school improvement and leadership
The School Offers
Ofsted Outstanding judgement
Supportive and collaborative SLT
A positive, inclusive and ambitious school culture
Well-behaved, motivated students who value learning
Excellent CPD and clear opportunities for career progression
Inner London salary and TLR
Well-resourced department with a strong team ethos
The Ideal Candidate
You will:
Be an experienced English teacher with a strong track record of results
Have leadership experience or be ready to take the next step into middle leadership
Be passionate about English and committed to delivering outstanding outcomes
Have high expectations for all students and staff
Be reflective, organised and committed to professional development
How to Apply
If you are an enthusiastic and driven English specialist looking to lead a department within a thriving Inner London school, I would love to hear from you.
Applications are welcomed from experienced Heads of Department or ambitious teachers ready for promotion.
To apply please send your CV to James at Academics or call 0203 031 4860
Head of English employer: Academics Ltd.
Contact Detail:
Academics Ltd. Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of English
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and values. Understanding what makes this prep school unique will help you tailor your approach during interviews and discussions, showing that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members if possible. They can provide insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when preparing for your interview and demonstrating your fit for the role.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss innovative teaching strategies and how you would implement them in the English curriculum. Highlighting your creativity and adaptability will show that you can lead a dynamic department effectively.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to share examples of how you've previously inspired students and fostered a love for literature. Concrete examples will help illustrate your passion and effectiveness as an educator, making you a more compelling candidate.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of English
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description thoroughly to understand the expectations and responsibilities of the Head of English position. Tailor your application to highlight how your experience aligns with their requirements.
Craft a Compelling CV: Ensure your CV showcases your teaching experience, leadership roles, and any relevant achievements in English education. Use clear headings and bullet points for easy readability.
Write a Strong Cover Letter: In your cover letter, express your passion for English and teaching. Highlight specific examples of how you've inspired students and contributed to curriculum development. Make sure to convey your enthusiasm for joining their school community.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, carefully proofread your CV and cover letter for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism.
How to prepare for a job interview at Academics Ltd.
✨Show Your Passion for English
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the subject during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and how you plan to foster a love for literature and language in your future role.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience or potential. Highlight any previous roles where you've led a team or developed a curriculum, and be ready to share your vision for leading the English department effectively.
✨Engage with the Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the current English curriculum and be prepared to discuss innovative ideas for its development. Show that you can deliver engaging lessons and prepare students for Common Entrance and Scholarship examinations.
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Talk about your ability to work collaboratively with colleagues. Provide examples of how you've contributed to a team environment in the past and how you plan to maintain high standards of teaching and learning across the department.