At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the English department while shaping curriculum and driving student success.
- Company: A supportive secondary school in Redbridge with a focus on academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a collaborative work environment.
- Why this job: Step into a leadership role and make a real impact on students' learning journeys.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong experience in teaching English at secondary level.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking team dedicated to continuous improvement and student wellbeing.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Redbridge
Salary: MPS-UPS (dependent on experience)
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Start date: September 2026
An Exciting Leadership Opportunity in English
Are you an ambitious and dedicated English teacher ready to take the next step into middle leadership? We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed Deputy Head of English to support the leadership of a successful and well‐established English department in a secondary school in Redbridge. This is an excellent opportunity for a strong classroom practitioner who is keen to develop their leadership skills and make a meaningful impact on teaching and learning.
Deputy Head of English – The Role
As Deputy Head of English, you will work closely with the Head of Department to provide strategic and operational leadership across the English team. You will help shape curriculum design, drive high standards of teaching and learning, and ensure consistently strong outcomes for students across all key stages. This role offers a fantastic opportunity to take on increased responsibility within a supportive and collaborative environment, while continuing to develop as an outstanding teacher and leader.
Key Responsibilities
- Support the Head of English in the day‐to‐day leadership and management of the department
- Contribute to the development and delivery of an ambitious, well‐sequenced English curriculum across KS3 and KS4 (KS5 where applicable)
- Lead on key areas such as assessment, curriculum development or teaching and learning strategies
- Model excellent classroom practice and promote high expectations for all students
- Use assessment and data effectively to track progress, identify gaps and implement targeted interventions
- Support, coach and mentor colleagues within the department
- Contribute to quality assurance processes, including lesson observations, work scrutiny and moderation
- Promote high standards of literacy, engagement and achievement across the school
Deputy Head of English – The Ideal Candidate Will:
- Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Have strong experience teaching English at secondary level (KS5 desirable but not essential)
- Demonstrate a proven track record of high‐quality teaching and positive student outcomes
- Have experience contributing to curriculum planning or leading aspects of departmental work
- Be able to inspire, motivate and support colleagues effectively
- Be organised, reflective and committed to continuous improvement
- Share the school's commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and high expectations
Deputy Head of English – What the School Offers
- A permanent, full‐time leadership role within a supportive and forward‐thinking English department
- MPS-UPS salary, dependent on experience
- Excellent opportunities for professional development and career progression
- A positive, collaborative school culture focused on academic excellence and student wellbeing
Deputy Head of English – How to Apply
If you are a passionate and driven English specialist ready to take on a key leadership role from September 2026, we would love to hear from you.
Deputy Head of English - Permanent - September 2026 in London employer: Aspire People
Contact Detail:
Aspire People Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Deputy Head of English - Permanent - September 2026 in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and connect with fellow teachers on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience aligns with their goals, especially in areas like curriculum development and student engagement. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice makes perfect! Conduct mock interviews with friends or colleagues to refine your answers and boost your confidence. Focus on articulating your leadership style and how you can contribute to the English department's success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged in the process. Let’s get you that Deputy Head of English role!
We think you need these skills to ace Deputy Head of English - Permanent - September 2026 in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for English: When writing your application, let your love for English shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and contributed to their learning. We want to see your enthusiasm for the subject and how it translates into your teaching.
Highlight Leadership Experience: As a Deputy Head of English, you'll be leading a team, so make sure to showcase any leadership roles you've had in the past. Whether it's mentoring colleagues or leading curriculum development, we want to know how you've made an impact in previous positions.
Tailor Your Application: Don't just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to the specific role at our school. Mention how your skills align with the responsibilities outlined in the job description, and show us why you're the perfect fit for our English department.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you're keen on joining our team!
How to prepare for a job interview at Aspire People
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the English curriculum, especially at KS3 and KS4. Be ready to discuss how you would contribute to its development and delivery, and think of specific examples from your teaching experience that demonstrate your understanding of effective curriculum design.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your leadership experiences, whether it’s mentoring colleagues or leading departmental initiatives. Think of instances where you’ve inspired others or driven improvements in teaching and learning, as this will highlight your potential as a Deputy Head.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Familiarise yourself with how to use assessment data effectively. Be prepared to discuss how you’ve tracked student progress in the past and implemented targeted interventions. This shows you can contribute to quality assurance processes and drive high standards.
✨Emphasise Collaboration and Support
Highlight your commitment to working collaboratively within a team. Share examples of how you’ve supported and coached colleagues, as well as how you promote high expectations for all students. This aligns perfectly with the school’s values and culture.