Head of English in Kent

We are seeking a talented, enthusiastic and experienced Head of English to lead our successful, supportive and innovative team, providing inspiring education across Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level. The English department is one of the largest departments within the school, accommodated in a dedicated classroom suite and English office.

The Head of Department is supported by a Second in Department who has specific responsibilities for curriculum design and subject management at Key Stage 3 and who leads one in every three department meetings. All staff are experienced English specialists who actively promote a love of English. The department is a popular option for A level, offering both English Literature and Language A Levels.

The English Department is a collaborative, energetic and highly motivated team who work together to get the best possible outcomes for all the students across the school. We meet weekly, taking it in turns to focus on a specific key stage for our discussions and we always have improving pedagogy at the heart of these meetings. We have a collaborative approach to all of our teaching, and we use electronic resource banks to share resources and best practice with each other.

We enjoy strong links with the library and the librarian team, who support poetry and creative writing activities. We support our teaching, wherever possible, with trips such as taking students to The Globe to see Shakespeare performances or taking GCSE or A level students to poetry conferences. We are very forward looking in terms of embracing technology, such as using OneNote and Teams to share resources with each other and the students electronically and we balance this with some traditional pen-and-paper approaches to prepare students for examinations.

Benenden is one of the leading boarding and day schools in Britain, founded in 1923 and situated in 250 acres of attractive parkland in Kent. There are 500 students in the school, aged 11-18. Benenden is at the forefront of girls’ education in the UK, with innovations including the Benenden Diploma, a new centenary curriculum with “elective” courses, and the Professional Skills Programme, preparing the Sixth Form for the future world of work.

Meals are provided for staff on duty. The school’s leisure facilities, including a fitness gym and swimming pool, are available for staff to use when possible. Benenden offers its own generous pay structure, responsibility allowances and benefits.

For a full job description and to apply, please click apply. Closing Date 9:00am Monday 11 May 2026. Please note that applications will be considered on submission, and we reserve the right to close and interview early if sufficient suitable applications have been received. The post-holder will be responsible for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children with whom they come into contact. They must ensure compliance with the School’s Child Protection Policy Statement at all times; this appointment will be subject to enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks. Benenden School is committed to equal opportunities and equal pay for all employees.