At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Geography department, shaping an exciting curriculum for students.
- Company: Join Newhouse Academy, a vibrant school focused on growth and community.
- Benefits: Enjoy funded professional development, wellbeing facilities, and a supportive leadership team.
- Other info: Full-time, permanent role starting September 2026 with a financial recruitment incentive.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while advancing your career in education.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with a strong background in Geography.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
Shape the Future of Geography in a School on the Move.
The Opportunity
Are you a visionary geographer ready to put your stamp on a department? Newhouse Academy is seeking an ambitious Head of Department Geography to join us at a pivotal moment in our journey. We aren’t just looking for a leader; we are looking for a subject specialist with the "fire" to take our curriculum to the next level. If you are passionate about inspiring students to explore the world’s most pressing challenges from climate change to urbanisation this is your stage.
Why Newhouse Academy?
We believe that leadership is a partnership. When you join us, you aren’t just getting a job; you’re joining a community built on Aspiration, Integrity, and Respect. We offer a supportive environment where your ideas are heard, and your professional growth is a priority.
What we offer you:
- Professional Excellence: Funded CPD for nationally recognised qualifications and a robust internal coaching programme.
- Wellbeing First: Access to our brand-new gym facilities, a dedicated Wellbeing Café, and a comprehensive health package (GP access, dental/optical cashback and more).
- Financial Peace of Mind: Membership in the Teachers’ Pension Scheme and free on-site parking.
- Leadership Support: TLR 2b (£5,866) and a leadership team that backs your departmental vision.
Who You Are
You are one of ‘Our People’ – someone who leads by example and believes every student deserves a chance to be a success in education. You will likely have:
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with a deep-rooted specialism in Geography.
- A Proven Track Record: You’ve successfully driven high standards at Key Stages 3 and 4 and know what "great" looks like in the classroom.
- Coaching Instincts: You have the ability to mentor and guide colleagues, fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
- Ambitious Vision: You can design and deliver an exciting curriculum that raises the aspirations of every student.
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2026
Closing Date: Tuesday 21st April 2026 at 09.00am
Shortlisting will take place on the day the advert closes. Interviews are likely to take place on Thursday 23rd April 2026.
Visit Us: We’d love to show you around. To experience our culture first hand and meet the team, please get in touch to arrange an informal visit. Please email your completed application to recruitmentnewhouseacademy.co.uk. We look forward to hearing from you.
Legal and Safeguarding
Newhouse Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of vulnerable adults, children and young people, and expects all staff to share this commitment. The information requested for applicants is considered to be objectively justified to comply with government guidance on safer recruitment in such areas. Appointment to this post is subject to a Disclosure and Barring check.
The Hollingworth Learning Trust operates a Smoke Free Policy for all employees that applies to any building and associated grounds within the immediate vicinity of the building, which is wholly owned, leased or operated and occupied by the school.
Applicants are informed that if appointed to this post their contract of employment will be with the school governing board who is the employer, and not Rochdale Council.
Head of Department - Geography employer: Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
Newhouse Academy is an exceptional employer that prioritises professional growth and wellbeing, offering funded CPD for nationally recognised qualifications and access to state-of-the-art gym facilities. Our supportive community fosters a culture of aspiration, integrity, and respect, ensuring that your innovative ideas are valued as we work together to inspire students in their exploration of geography's most pressing challenges.
Contact Details:
Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department - Geography
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Newhouse Academy. Understand their values and what they’re looking for in a Head of Department. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for Geography! During your interview, share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past. Talk about innovative lessons or projects you've implemented that got students excited about the subject. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to discuss your vision! Think about how you would take the Geography curriculum to the next level. Prepare to share your ideas on addressing current global challenges like climate change and urbanisation. This is your chance to showcase your ambitious vision!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions ready. This shows you’re engaged and serious about the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to find out if Newhouse Academy is the right fit for you too!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department - Geography
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Geography shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and tackled pressing issues like climate change. We want to see that fire in your belly!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight your experience with Key Stages 3 and 4, and any leadership roles you've had. We’re looking for someone who can drive high standards, so don’t hold back on showcasing your achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for Newhouse Academy. Discuss your vision for the Geography department and how you plan to raise aspirations. Keep it engaging and personal – we want to get to know you!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community from the get-go!
How to prepare for a job interview at Career Choices Dewis Gyrfa Ltd
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current geography curriculum and any innovative teaching methods. Be ready to discuss how you can elevate the curriculum at Newhouse Academy, especially around pressing issues like climate change and urbanisation.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to share examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Highlight your coaching instincts and how you’ve fostered a culture of continuous improvement among colleagues.
✨Connect with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with Newhouse Academy’s core values: Aspiration, Integrity, and Respect. Think about how your personal philosophy aligns with these values and be ready to discuss this during the interview.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions that show your genuine interest in the role and the school’s future. Inquire about their vision for the geography department and how they support professional growth, which will demonstrate your commitment to being part of their community.
