Head of English in Surrey

The position of Head of English offers an ambitious and dynamic individual an exciting and highly rewarding leadership opportunity. Your passion for the subject will inspire young minds and make a lasting impact. This is a highly coveted role that builds upon our outstanding reputation for English, providing an exceptional opportunity for a knowledgeable individual.

Candidates will be inspirational leaders of the staff within their team and are expected to evaluate the department and provide strong direction and an ambitious vision for the future of English at Halliford School. At Halliford School, we pride ourselves on our commitment to nurturing students’ skills in reading, writing, speaking, and listening. Our English Department boasts an impressive track record, with a 100% success rate in both English Language and English Literature.

As a key member of our dedicated team, you will play a pivotal role in helping students of all abilities achieve their full potential. Our close-knit English Department comprises four full-time members who collaborate harmoniously to ensure the best possible outcomes for our students. Located in the air-conditioned Woodward building, you will have convenient access to the Learning Resource Centre and state-of-the-art facilities.

Beyond the classroom, co-curricular activities and trips are integral to our Department’s ethos. You will have the chance to organise theatre trips, encourage participation in creative writing competitions, and spearhead the Debating Club. Halliford School takes pride in its successful public speaking teams, with participants often reaching the final rounds of prestigious competitions such as the Youth Speaks Public Speaking Competition.

In Years 7 to 9, students are taught in mixed-ability groups, engaging with a diverse range of fiction and non-fiction texts. Your innovative teaching strategies will help students develop presentation skills, creative writing techniques, and analytical prowess. Our thoughtfully designed curriculum lays a solid foundation for students’ transition to KS4.

In Years 10 and 11, students follow the Edexcel IGCSE Language and English Literature specifications. You will guide them through the set Anthology and oversee the completion of two coursework essays. Your expertise will ensure they excel in their studies and acquire a deep appreciation for the subject.

At the Sixth Form level, our Department offers English Literature A Level, an engaging course that fosters critical thinking and creativity. You will inspire students to explore a broad range of texts, cultivating a love for literature and nurturing their intellectual curiosity.

Application Process
Email the completed application form, along with a covering letter, addressed to the Headmaster, Mr James Davies to hr@hallifordschool.co.uk. Applications must be received by midday on Thursday 30th April 2026. Please apply as soon as possible as applications will be considered upon receipt; we reserve the right to interview/appoint before the closing date.

Equal Opportunities
We are proactively committed to creating a diverse staff body which reflects the community that we teach. At Halliford School we value diversity and inclusion; we want to attract the best people for the role. This is regardless of age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, disability, socioeconomic status or religious beliefs. Halliford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff, volunteers and visitors to share our commitment. We are an equal opportunities employer and the successful candidate will be subject to enhanced DBS disclosure and employment reference checks. You must be eligible to work in the UK. All applications will be acknowledged by email. Offers of employment are subject to the receipt of a minimum of two references which are satisfactory to the School. Please refer to our Recruitment Selection and Disclosure Policy which can be found on the school website.