Head of English in Bradford

Head of English - Secondary School

Location: Bradford, West Yorkshire
School: Secondary School within a large Multi-Academy Trust
Salary:£160-£270 + TLR
Contract: Full-time, Temporary
DBS: Enhanced DBS required

About the Role

We are seeking an ambitious, inspirational and committed Head of English to lead the English department at a successful secondary school in Bradford, part of a large and established Multi-Academy Trust.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced English teacher and leader who is passionate about raising standards, developing staff and ensuring that every student receives an excellent education in English.

As Head of English, you will provide strategic and operational leadership across the department, driving high standards of teaching and learning and developing a broad, engaging and ambitious curriculum. You will work closely with the school's senior leadership team and wider Trust colleagues to contribute to whole-school improvement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strong and inspirational leadership to the English department.

• Lead the development, implementation and evaluation of a high-quality English curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4.

• Ensure consistently high standards of teaching, learning, assessment and student progress.

• Monitor and evaluate departmental performance, identifying areas for improvement and implementing effective action plans.

• Use assessment data effectively to identify underachievement and secure appropriate intervention.

• Support and develop teachers within the department through coaching, mentoring and professional development.

• Promote a culture of high expectations, academic achievement and continuous improvement.

• Ensure that GCSE English Language and Literature provision is rigorous, well planned and responsive to student needs.

• Develop a culture that promotes reading, literacy and a genuine love of English.

• Contribute to whole-school literacy strategies and wider Trust initiatives.

• Manage departmental resources and budgets effectively.

• Lead departmental meetings and contribute to school improvement planning.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues, parents/carers and Trust leaders to secure the best outcomes for students.

• Ensure that safeguarding and child protection procedures are consistently followed.

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for someone who:

• Is an excellent classroom practitioner with a strong track record of teaching English at secondary level.

• Has proven experience of successful subject or departmental leadership.

• Has a thorough understanding of the English curriculum and current assessment requirements.

• Can demonstrate a sustained impact on student progress and attainment.

• Is passionate about developing high-quality teaching and learning.

• Has strong organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.

• Can inspire, motivate and develop colleagues.

• Has high expectations of all students and is committed to closing achievement gaps.

• Is reflective, resilient and solution-focused.

• Works effectively as part of a wider school and Trust leadership team.

• Shares a commitment to safeguarding, inclusion and the wider development of young people.

What the School and Trust Offer

The successful candidate will benefit from:

• The opportunity to lead and develop a key curriculum area within a large Trust.

• A supportive and collaborative leadership environment.

• Access to high-quality professional development and leadership opportunities.

• Opportunities to work collaboratively with English colleagues across the Trust.

• A culture of high expectations and continuous improvement.

• Supportive colleagues and a strong commitment to staff development.

• The opportunity to make a significant difference to the outcomes and experiences of young people in Bradford.

Safeguarding & Recruitment

The school and Trust are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate safer recruitment procedures, satisfactory references and an Enhanced DBS check.

The successful applicant will be expected to uphold the school's safeguarding policies and contribute positively to a culture in which students are safe, supported and able to thrive.