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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the English department, delivering an engaging curriculum for KS3–KS5 students.
- Company: Respected independent school in Abingdon with a focus on academic excellence and student wellbeing.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, small class sizes, and ongoing professional development.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on students' love for literature and critical thinking.
- Qualifications: Degree in English, QTS, and significant secondary teaching experience required.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to fostering creativity and academic rigour.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Are you an inspiring and visionary Head of English seeking a leadership role within an outstanding independent school in Abingdon? This is a superb opportunity for an experienced and passionate Head of English to lead and further develop a successful English department within a respected independent school in Abingdon, commencing in February or April 2026.
About the Role
- Role: Head of English
- Start Date: February / April 2026
- Contract: Full-time, Permanent
- Location: Abingdon, Oxfordshire
- Key Stages: KS3–KS5
- Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
The successful candidate will provide strategic and academic leadership for English, delivering an ambitious and intellectually rich curriculum that fosters a lifelong appreciation of literature, language, and critical thinking. They will inspire both students and colleagues, ensuring the department continues to flourish academically and culturally.
About the School
This independent school in Abingdon offers a warm, inclusive, and academically ambitious environment, underpinned by strong pastoral care and a commitment to developing confident, articulate, and well-rounded individuals. The school values academic rigour alongside creativity, enrichment, and co-curricular engagement, and places great importance on staff wellbeing and professional development.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the English department, setting a clear vision for teaching, learning, and curriculum development.
- Deliver outstanding English teaching across KS3–KS5, including GCSE and A-Level.
- Mentor and support departmental colleagues, fostering a culture of excellence and collaboration.
- Monitor student progress and outcomes, using assessment to inform teaching and raise achievement.
- Promote reading, writing, debate, and literary enrichment through events, competitions, and wider school initiatives.
- Contribute actively to the academic, pastoral, and co-curricular life of the school.
What the School Offers
- A supportive and collegiate working environment within a well-resourced department.
- Small class sizes and highly motivated students.
- Excellent facilities and opportunities for curriculum innovation.
- Ongoing professional development and leadership growth.
- A competitive salary and benefits package.
Essential Requirements
- A degree in English or a closely related discipline.
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent teaching qualification.
- Significant experience teaching English at secondary level, including GCSE and A-Level.
- Proven leadership experience or clear readiness to lead a department.
- A genuine passion for literature, language, and high-quality education.
How to Apply
If you are an enthusiastic and forward-thinking English leader seeking an opportunity to make a meaningful impact within an independent school setting, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a brief supporting statement outlining your suitability for the role. We look forward to receiving your application.
Head of English - Independent School in Abingdon employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of English - Independent School in Abingdon
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, attend local events, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with their mission. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the school culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. We love to hear about your passion for mentoring and developing others!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email can leave a lasting impression. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of English - Independent School in Abingdon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your Narrative: When writing your application, think of it as telling your story. We want to know about your journey in education, your passion for English, and how you've inspired others. Make it personal and engaging!
Showcase Your Leadership Skills: As a Head of English, we’re looking for someone who can lead with vision. Highlight your previous leadership experiences and how you’ve successfully managed teams or projects. Let us see your potential to inspire!
Tailor Your Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement is your chance to shine! Make sure it aligns with the job description and reflects our school’s values. We want to see how you can contribute to our academic and cultural environment.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your CV and supporting statement. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community right from the start.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the English curriculum at KS3–KS5, including GCSE and A-Level. Be ready to discuss how you would enhance the existing programme and introduce innovative teaching methods that inspire students.
✨Showcase Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your leadership experience in previous roles. Think about how you've mentored colleagues or led initiatives that improved student outcomes. This will demonstrate your readiness to lead the English department effectively.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Research the school's ethos and values, particularly their commitment to pastoral care and co-curricular activities. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to these areas and promote a culture of excellence within the department.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Have a list of insightful questions ready to ask during the interview. This could include inquiries about the school's approach to professional development or how they support staff wellbeing. It shows your genuine interest in the role and the school.
