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- Tasks: Lead the History department and inspire students through innovative curriculum development.
- Company: Prestigious independent day school in Birmingham with a strong academic reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, small class sizes, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' academic journeys in a supportive and ambitious environment.
- Qualifications: Strong academic background in History and proven leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a collegial team dedicated to scholarship and character development.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A prestigious independent day school in Birmingham is seeking an outstanding and ambitious Head of History to lead its highly regarded Humanities department. This is a significant leadership opportunity within a school known for academic excellence, intellectual curiosity and a strong culture of pastoral care.
This well-established independent school educates pupils from junior years through to Sixth Form and has a long-standing reputation for exceptional academic outcomes. Examination results consistently place the school among the strongest in the region, with pupils progressing to leading universities across the UK and internationally.
The campus combines traditional architecture with modern teaching spaces, including specialist Humanities classrooms, lecture-style seminar rooms and dedicated Sixth Form study facilities. The school places equal emphasis on scholarship, character development and co-curricular enrichment.
Students are articulate, motivated and accustomed to academic challenge. Class sizes are small, allowing teachers to teach with depth and build strong, professional relationships with pupils.
History is one of the school’s flagship subjects. Uptake at both GCSE and A-Level is consistently high, and outcomes regularly reflect a strong proportion of top grades. The department delivers a rich, academically rigorous curriculum that spans British, European and global history.
Teaching focuses on:
- Detailed source analysis and historiography
- Structured academic writing and debate
- Preparation for university-style essay expectations
- Independent research and extension reading
The department also runs enrichment opportunities including essay competitions, guest lectures and overseas history trips.
As Head of History, you will:
- Lead curriculum planning and development across KS3–KS5
- Support and mentor departmental colleagues
- Monitor standards and drive continued academic excellence
- Contribute to whole-school academic strategy
- Promote enrichment and scholarly engagement
This role requires both excellent classroom practice and the ability to provide clear, strategic leadership.
The successful candidate will:
- Hold a strong academic background in History
- Have a proven track record of high outcomes at GCSE and A-Level
- Demonstrate leadership capability and vision
- Inspire intellectual curiosity and high expectations
- Be willing to contribute to the wider life of the school
What the School Offers:
- Competitive independent sector salary
- Generous pension and benefits package
- Small class sizes and motivated students
- Strong CPD and leadership development pathways
- A collegial, academically ambitious working environment
This is an exceptional opportunity for a talented History specialist ready to lead within a prestigious independent school where scholarship, ambition and professional respect are central to daily life.
Head of History – Independent Day School – Birmingham employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of History – Independent Day School – Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in independent schools. They might have insider info or even know about unadvertised positions that could be perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how your vision aligns with their commitment to academic excellence and character development. Show them you’re not just a fit for the role, but for their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It’s a great way to reinforce your interest and keep you fresh in their minds.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources to help you stand out. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and makes it easier for us to connect with you directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of History – Independent Day School – Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for History: When writing your application, let your love for history shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and how you plan to continue that at our school.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and expectations outlined in the job description. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with our commitment to academic excellence and pastoral care.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to convey your ideas effectively. Remember, we want to see your personality and vision without wading through unnecessary fluff!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity to lead our History department.
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your History Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on key historical events, figures, and historiography relevant to the curriculum. Be prepared to discuss how you would approach teaching these topics and engage students in meaningful debates.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Think about examples from your past where you've successfully led a team or project. Be ready to share how you’ve mentored colleagues or driven academic excellence in your previous roles, as this will be crucial for the Head of History position.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos around academic excellence and pastoral care. During the interview, demonstrate how your vision aligns with their values and how you can contribute to both scholarship and character development.
✨Prepare for Curriculum Development Questions
Anticipate questions about your approach to curriculum planning and enrichment opportunities. Think about innovative ideas you could bring to the department, such as new projects or collaborations that enhance the learning experience.
