At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the RE & Citizenship curriculum, inspiring students and staff alike.
- Company: Join Maiden Erlegh School, a vibrant and inclusive community focused on high-quality education.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, professional development, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Collaborate with a supportive team and access extensive career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape an engaging curriculum and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong subject knowledge in RE & Citizenship required.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 55000 € per year.
Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is seeking to appoint an ambitious, knowledgeable and inspirational Head of RE & Citizenship to lead and develop this important curriculum area within our school. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher or existing middle leader to provide strategic and operational leadership across RE & Citizenship, securing high-quality teaching, learning and assessment, while ensuring all students make strong progress from their starting points.
The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping an inclusive, aspirational and engaging curriculum that supports excellent outcomes for all learners. As Head of RE & Citizenship, you will lead the development of a well-sequenced and ambitious curriculum that inspires curiosity, critical thinking and meaningful discussion. You will support and develop colleagues within the department, drive improvements in teaching and learning, and ensure assessment is used effectively to secure strong student progress and attainment. You will promote a culture of high expectations, positive behaviour and inclusion, ensuring that all students, including disadvantaged students and those with SEND, are supported and challenged to achieve their full potential. This role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to whole‑school improvement and collaborate across Maiden Erlegh Trust, sharing effective practice and supporting professional growth.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead the strategic development of RE & Citizenship across the school
- Develop and implement high-quality schemes of work, curriculum plans and resources
- Model and promote excellent classroom practice across the department
- Monitor teaching, learning and assessment to drive continuous improvement
- Analyze student performance data and implement effective interventions
- Support and develop colleagues through coaching, mentoring and professional dialogue
- Promote high standards of behaviour, attendance and student engagement
- Ensure inclusive provision that supports the needs of all learners
- Contribute positively to whole‑school and Trust improvement priorities
- Provide enrichment and extra‑curricular opportunities to deepen student engagement and subject understanding
The Ideal Candidate
- Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent teaching qualification
- Has strong subject knowledge in RE & Citizenship
- Has the ability to lead, motivate and develop colleagues effectively
- Demonstrates a strong understanding of curriculum development and assessment
- Has high expectations for student achievement and behaviour
- Is committed to inclusive practice and supporting the wellbeing of all students
- Works collaboratively and positively as part of a wider team
- Shares the values and ethos of Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh School in Reading (MER) is an ambitious, over‑subscribed 11-16 secondary school in an urban context. The school is as committed to staff and student wellbeing as it is to delivering high-quality education. Staff voice is central to shaping change and wellbeing priorities. The school benefits from excellent modern facilities and is proud of its vibrant, diverse student body who work hard and have high aspirations.
About Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools, including primary, secondary, special and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise. We Aim High, Be Inclusive and Work Together. These values drive our focus on high‑quality education for all through collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement.
Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high‑quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities and our annual MET Staff Conference, a day that brings colleagues together to share best practice and learn from one another. Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise, playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.
Benefits of Working with Maiden Erlegh Trust
- Pension Scheme – generous employer contributions through the Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme
- Annual Leave – generous entitlement, increasing with length of service
- ME Day – one additional day's leave each year for a significant personal event
- Professional Development – extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities
- Hybrid Working – flexible working arrangements for eligible roles
- Perkbox – discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points
- Wellbeing and Health – free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)
- Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes
- Mental Health First Aid Support
- Recognition and Community – celebrating achievements and milestones across TeamMET
- Employee Referral Scheme
If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion. Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.
Head of RE & Citizenship at Maiden Erlegh School In Reading employer: Maiden Erlegh School in Reading
Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is an exceptional employer that prioritises both staff and student wellbeing, fostering a collaborative and inclusive work culture. With a strong commitment to professional development through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, employees have access to extensive training and leadership opportunities, ensuring continuous growth. The school's modern facilities and vibrant community create an inspiring environment where educators can thrive and make a meaningful impact on students' lives.
Contact Detail:
Maiden Erlegh School in Reading Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of RE & Citizenship at Maiden Erlegh School In Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Maiden Erlegh School. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the school culture and what they really value in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can showcase your leadership skills. We want to hear about your experiences in developing curriculum and supporting colleagues, so have some examples ready!
✨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for inclusive education! Be ready to discuss how you've supported diverse learners in the past. This role is all about ensuring every student thrives, so let that shine through.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of RE & Citizenship at Maiden Erlegh School In Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for RE & Citizenship shine through! We want to see how you can inspire students and colleagues alike, so share your vision for the curriculum and how you plan to engage learners.
Tailor Your Experience:Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in teaching and leadership. We’re looking for someone who can lead and develop others, so include examples of how you've supported colleagues or improved teaching practices in your previous roles.
Be Data-Savvy:Don’t forget to mention your ability to analyse student performance data! We value candidates who can implement effective interventions based on data insights, so give us a glimpse of how you've used data to drive student progress in the past.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, and we can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Maiden Erlegh School in Reading
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid understanding of the RE & Citizenship curriculum. Familiarise yourself with current trends, key topics, and effective teaching strategies. This will not only help you answer questions confidently but also demonstrate your passion for the subject.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Think about times when you've motivated colleagues, driven improvements, or implemented new initiatives. This will highlight your ability to lead and inspire others in the role of Head of RE & Citizenship.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Support
Be ready to discuss how you would ensure that all students, including those with SEND and disadvantaged backgrounds, are supported in their learning. Share specific strategies or experiences that showcase your commitment to inclusive education and high expectations for all learners.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Research Maiden Erlegh Trust’s values and ethos thoroughly. Be prepared to explain how your personal teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to inclusivity, collaboration, and continuous improvement. This will show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the school community.
