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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Sociology department to achieve outstanding results.
- Company: A highly regarded secondary school in Ilford with a diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and supportive leadership.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and shape future sociologists.
- Qualifications: Proven teaching experience and strong leadership skills in Sociology.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team focused on high expectations and inclusion.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Ilford, East London
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR (dependent on experience)
We are delighted to be recruiting an enthusiastic and forward-thinking Head of Sociology to lead a successful and well-established Sociology department within a large, high-achieving secondary school and sixth form in Ilford. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Sociology teacher or an existing middle leader seeking their next career step. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for Sociology, driving high-quality teaching and learning and securing outstanding outcomes at both GCSE and A Level. Working closely with senior leaders and fellow heads of department, you will play an important role in whole-school improvement and curriculum development.
The school is a large, popular and highly regarded secondary school with a thriving sixth form, serving a diverse and dynamic community in Ilford. It is recognised for its strong academic outcomes, high expectations and inclusive ethos. Students are motivated, respectful and engaged in their learning, while staff benefit from clear systems, supportive leadership and a collaborative working environment. Social sciences and humanities are highly valued within the school, with Sociology being a popular and successful subject at both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. The school is committed to staff wellbeing, professional development and long-term career progression.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the Sociology department, maintaining consistently high standards of teaching and learning
- Plan and deliver a coherent, ambitious and well-sequenced Sociology curriculum at GCSE and A Level
- Track, monitor and analyse student progress to inform intervention and raise achievement
- Support, coach and develop staff within the department
- Oversee effective assessment, moderation and examination preparation
- Promote Sociology across the school and sixth form to ensure strong uptake and outcomes
- Contribute to whole-school initiatives and the wider life of the school
The Ideal Candidate Will
- Be an excellent teacher of Sociology with strong subject knowledge
- Have a proven record of securing positive student outcomes
- Demonstrate the ability to lead, inspire and motivate colleagues
- Be reflective, organised and committed to continuous improvement
- Share the school's commitment to high expectations, inclusion and equity
- Be enthusiastic about working in a large, diverse secondary school setting
What the School Offers
- A supportive and experienced senior leadership team
- Well‑motivated, well‑behaved students
- Excellent facilities and teaching resources
- A strong focus on professional development and career progression
- A collaborative, ambitious and forward‑thinking staff culture
Applications are welcomed from both current Heads of Sociology and experienced Sociology teachers ready to take on a leadership role.
Head of Sociology - Permanent - January 2026 employer: ASPIRE PEOPLE LTD
Contact Detail:
ASPIRE PEOPLE LTD Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Sociology - Permanent - January 2026
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who might know about opportunities in sociology. A friendly chat can sometimes lead to job openings that aren't even advertised!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its ethos. Understand their approach to teaching sociology and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their goals. Show them you're not just a great teacher, but also a perfect fit for their team!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership pitch! As a potential Head of Sociology, you'll need to demonstrate your vision for the department. Think about how you can inspire both students and staff, and be ready to share your ideas during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Don't forget to apply through our website! We make it easy for you to find and apply for roles that match your skills and aspirations. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way in landing that dream job!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Sociology - Permanent - January 2026
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Sociology: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Sociology shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and contributed to the subject's popularity in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of our school. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with our commitment to high expectations and inclusion.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your achievements and teaching philosophy, making it easy for us to see why you’d be a great fit for the Head of Sociology role.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at ASPIRE PEOPLE LTD
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you have a solid grasp of Sociology concepts and current trends in the subject. Brush up on your knowledge of GCSE and A Level curricula, as well as any recent developments in social sciences that could impact your teaching.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Think about times when you've inspired colleagues or improved student outcomes. Be ready to discuss your vision for the Sociology department and how you plan to drive high-quality teaching and learning.
✨Engage with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's values and commitment to inclusion and equity. Be prepared to discuss how your teaching philosophy aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to the whole-school improvement initiatives.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
Prepare some insightful questions to ask during the interview. This could be about the school's approach to professional development, how they support staff wellbeing, or their strategies for promoting Sociology across the school. It shows you're genuinely interested and engaged.
