Subject Leader for English in Colne

Location: Ss John Fisher & Thomas More RC High School

Contract Type: Full-time, Permanent

Start Date: 1 January 2027

Salary: MPR/UPR + TLR1B (£12,520 – pay award pending)

Closing Date: 12 noon, Monday 5 October 2026

About us

At Ss John Fisher & Thomas More RC High School, we are committed to providing an enriching educational experience that empowers our students to reach their full potential. We pride ourselves on fostering a nurturing and dynamic environment where both staff and students thrive. Our English department plays a pivotal role in developing students’ love of literature and language, and we are looking for an enthusiastic, inspirational and dedicated Subject Leader for English to lead our department.

Role Overview

We are seeking a passionate and experienced teacher of English to lead the vision, strategic direction, and continued development of the department as Subject Leader. The successful candidate will be an outstanding classroom practitioner and an inspirational leader who is committed to securing the highest standards of teaching and learning. You will lead and develop the English curriculum, monitor student progress and attainment, support and challenge colleagues, and ensure that all students are given the opportunity to achieve their full potential. You will work collaboratively with colleagues across the school to develop innovative and effective approaches that inspire students to engage with English literature, language, reading and writing.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the vision and strategic direction of the English department.
• Develop, implement and evaluate a high-quality English curriculum that meets the needs of all students.
• Ensure consistently high standards of teaching and learning across the department.
• Monitor and evaluate student progress, attainment and outcomes, implementing effective intervention strategies where required.
• Lead the planning and delivery of high-quality lessons that promote engagement, challenge and achievement.
• Lead departmental improvement planning and contribute to whole-school priorities.
• Monitor the quality of teaching and learning and provide appropriate support, challenge and professional development for colleagues.
• Lead the professional development of staff within the English department, sharing effective practice and resources.
• Ensure that departmental policies, procedures and practices are consistently implemented and reflect current educational requirements.
• Promote a strong culture of reading, writing and appreciation of literature through the curriculum and enrichment opportunities.
• Lead and develop extra-curricular opportunities that enhance students’ experience of English.
• Use assessment information effectively to identify areas for improvement and ensure appropriate support and challenge for students.
• Liaise effectively with parents, carers and other stakeholders to promote students’ learning, progress and achievement.
• Contribute positively to the wider leadership and development of the school.

What are we looking for?

• Is a qualified teacher with a strong subject knowledge and passion for English.
• Has successful experience of leading or contributing significantly to the development of an English department.
• Has a proven track record of securing high standards of teaching, learning and student outcomes.
• Is committed to developing an ambitious, engaging and inclusive English curriculum.
• Is an inspirational leader who can motivate, support and develop colleagues.
• Has excellent communication, organisation and interpersonal skills.
• Is committed to the professional development and wellbeing of staff.
• Is reflective, creative and forward-thinking in their approach to teaching and learning.
• Has high expectations of all students and believes passionately in their ability to succeed.
• Is a collaborative team player who will contribute positively to the wider school community.

Why Join Us?

At Ss John Fisher & Thomas More RC High School, you will be part of a supportive and collaborative environment where your ideas and contributions are valued. We offer ongoing professional development opportunities, a commitment to staff wellbeing, and the opportunity to lead and develop an important area of the school curriculum while making a real difference to the lives and futures of our students.

Ss John Fisher & Thomas More RC High School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including an enhanced DBS check, online search and references. We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.