Head of English in Colchester

About the School - Colchester Prep and High School

Colchester Prep & High School was founded in 1882 by Ferdinand Gröne as a ‘most desirable establishment for young ladies’, providing a ‘sound English education’. Over the past 140 years, Colchester Prep & High School has built up a reputation for providing an excellent all‑round education whilst preparing our pupils for life beyond school. Today that reputation still stands.

Through our inspiring teaching and forward‑thinking STEAM curriculum, we build in our pupils, ages 2 to 16, the confidence, self‑belief and strength of character to achieve their full potential whilst nurturing in them a global perspective and a mindfulness for social responsibility which will last throughout their lives. It is a community focused on creating the “Changemakers of Tomorrow’s World”. In line with our School Motto “God First, Others Second, Self Last”, we pride ourselves on our friendly and caring close‑knit environment, which encourages good manners, consideration for other people and a strong sense of social responsibility among our pupils.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of English to join our fantastic team.

About the role

As the Head of English, you will play a key role in raising student achievement and attainment by delivering high‑quality lessons. You will have oversight of the curriculum, planning schemes of work, and ensuring resources are effectively developed to support student learning. Your responsibilities will also include monitoring student progress through internal and external assessments, offering pastoral support in collaboration with the Head of Character Development and Wellbeing, and supporting the school’s co‑curricular programme. You will work closely with the school’s leadership team to help drive the development of the department and the wider school. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher who is committed to delivering outstanding teaching and supporting the overall development of the students. This is a permanent, full‑time role with a proposed April 2026 start date.

Who we are looking for:

We are looking for a qualified, passionate, and dynamic teacher with a strong academic background and a commitment to driving high standards. You will possess a good university degree, Qualified Teacher Status and an APGCE or equivalent. You should have experience teaching English, with excellent classroom management and organisational skills. You will be an effective communicator, able to build strong relationships with students, staff, and parents. A flexible, solution‑focused attitude is essential, along with the ability to adapt to the demands of a busy independent school. You should be a role model, with high expectations for student achievement and behaviour, and a commitment to continuous professional development.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme
• Free lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays / Holiday Allowance
• Free parking on site (subject to availability)
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third‑party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: Monday 2nd February 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.