At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the RE & Citizenship curriculum, inspiring students and staff alike.
- Company: Join Maiden Erlegh School, a vibrant community focused on inclusive education.
- Benefits: Enjoy generous leave, professional development, and flexible working options.
- Other info: Collaborate with a supportive team and contribute to whole-school improvement.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while shaping an engaging curriculum.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong subject knowledge in RE & Citizenship required.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 51048 £ per year.
Location: 81 Crescent Road, Reading, Berkshire, RG1 5SL
Contract Type: Fixed Term, Full-Time
Salary: £32,916.00 - £51,048.00 Annually (Actual) MPR/UPR: based on experience, plus a TLR 2c allowance; Sabbatical cover of 1 year from Sept 26
Start Date: September 2026
Closing Date: Midnight, Fri 22nd May 2026
Positions Available: 1
About This Role
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
- Analyse 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
Benefits
- 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
Equal Opportunities Employer
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 Trust
Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that prioritises professional development and employee wellbeing. With extensive CPD opportunities, flexible working arrangements, and a commitment to high standards of teaching and learning, this role as Head of RE & Citizenship allows you to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while collaborating with a dedicated team. The school's focus on community and recognition ensures that your contributions are valued and celebrated.
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 about the school culture and what they really value in a Head of RE & Citizenship.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the curriculum. Show us how you can inspire curiosity and critical thinking in students. Bring examples of your past successes in leading teams and improving student outcomes.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t just talk the talk; walk the walk! Be ready to discuss specific strategies you’ve used to support inclusive practices and how you’ve tackled challenges with disadvantaged students or those with SEND.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are genuinely interested in joining our community at Maiden Erlegh Trust.
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 much you care about inspiring students and shaping their understanding of the world.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of RE & Citizenship role. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our vision at Maiden Erlegh School.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your key achievements and ideas are easy to spot. This helps us see your potential quickly!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Maiden Erlegh Trust
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest developments in RE & Citizenship. Familiarise yourself with the current curriculum and think about how you can enhance it. Be ready to discuss specific strategies for engaging students and promoting critical thinking.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Think about times when you’ve mentored colleagues or driven improvements in teaching and learning. This role is all about leadership, so demonstrate your ability to inspire and motivate others.
✨Data-Driven Decision Making
Be prepared to talk about how you’ve used student performance data to inform your teaching strategies. Discuss any interventions you’ve implemented that have led to improved outcomes. This shows you understand the importance of assessment in driving student progress.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Wellbeing
Highlight your commitment to inclusive practices and supporting all learners, especially those with SEND. Share specific examples of how you’ve created an inclusive classroom environment and promoted student wellbeing. This aligns perfectly with the school’s ethos.
