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- Tasks: Lead and develop the English curriculum while inspiring students and staff.
- Company: Outstanding inner-city comprehensive school with a diverse community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives and drive academic excellence.
- Qualifications: QTS, English degree, and proven outstanding classroom practice.
- Other info: Join a dedicated team committed to innovation and high aspirations.
The predicted salary is between 67000 - 75000 £ per year.
Salary: Inner London Lead Practitioner Pay Range, Points L12 to L16 (£78,072 to £85,258)
Closing date: 5pm Thursday 26th February 2026
La Retraite is a high-achieving inner-city comprehensive school with 1,200 students, including a thriving Sixth Form. We were judged Outstanding in all areas by Ofsted (Dec 2023) and Outstanding in all nine areas in our 2024 Diocesan Inspection. We are a diverse, harmonious community that values kindness, hard work, and high aspiration. KS4 outcomes are consistently well above average, and our broad KS5 offer (A Levels, T Levels and Cambridge Technicals) leads to excellent destinations, including Russell Group universities and degree apprenticeships.
As part of our commitment to continuous improvement, we are seeking an exceptional Lead Practitioner of English to drive outstanding teaching and learning across the school while leading the development of a successful English department.
The Role
- Lead and develop the English curriculum and oversee high-quality provision across KS3–KS5
- Work with SLT to drive whole-school teaching and learning, including literacy development
- Act as a coach, mentor and role model to colleagues across departments
- Use data strategically to raise attainment and close gaps
- Monitor, evaluate and improve classroom practice through observations, feedback and professional dialogue
- Support and develop colleagues within the department, including induction of new staff and ECTs
- Contribute to a culture of high expectations, positive relationships and academic excellence
- Play a full part in the wider life of the school, including pastoral responsibilities as a Form Tutor
The Ideal Candidate
- QTS and an English degree (or equivalent)
- Proven record of outstanding classroom practice
- Experience of departmental leadership
- Strong understanding of curriculum, assessment and raising achievement
- Ability to inspire staff and students
- Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive education
- Supportive of the school’s Catholic ethos (all faiths and none welcome)
La Retraite offers a supportive, ambitious, and collaborative environment where staff development is valued, and innovation is encouraged. You will join a dedicated team committed to making a real difference to young people’s lives.
Please complete our recruitment pack and return it to ssilva@laretraite.co.uk. Interviews may take place before the closing date, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early. La Retraite R.C. Girls’ School is committed to safer recruitment and equal opportunities.
1.0FTE Lead Practitioner English in Cambridge employer: La Retraite
Contact Detail:
La Retraite Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land 1.0FTE Lead Practitioner English in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at La Retraite through LinkedIn or other platforms. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the school's ethos and recent achievements. Show us that you’re not just another candidate, but someone who genuinely aligns with our values and mission.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your teaching demonstration! If you're asked to showcase your skills, make it engaging and relevant to our students. We want to see how you can inspire and lead in the classroom.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our amazing team at La Retraite.
We think you need these skills to ace 1.0FTE Lead Practitioner English in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for English: When writing your application, let your love for English shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and improved their learning. We want to see your enthusiasm for the subject and how it translates into your teaching.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As a Lead Practitioner, you'll be guiding others, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Talk about times you've mentored colleagues or led initiatives that improved teaching and learning. We’re looking for someone who can motivate and uplift the team!
Be Data-Driven: We value evidence-based practices, so include how you've used data to enhance student outcomes. Mention any strategies you've implemented to close achievement gaps or improve literacy. This shows us you’re not just passionate but also strategic in your approach.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure your application is tailored to La Retraite’s values and ethos. Reflect on how your experiences align with our commitment to high expectations and inclusive education. We want to see that you understand our community and are excited to contribute!
How to prepare for a job interview at La Retraite
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the English curriculum, especially for KS3–KS5. Be ready to discuss how you would lead and develop it, and think about specific strategies you could implement to enhance teaching and learning.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your past experiences in departmental leadership. Highlight how you've mentored colleagues or improved classroom practices. This role is all about inspiring others, so be ready to share your vision for the English department.
✨Data-Driven Decisions
Familiarise yourself with how to use data strategically to raise attainment. Think of instances where you’ve used data to close gaps in student performance and be prepared to discuss these during the interview.
✨Embrace the School's Ethos
La Retraite values a supportive and inclusive environment. Be ready to express how you align with their Catholic ethos and commitment to safeguarding. Share your thoughts on fostering positive relationships within the school community.
