Head of Psychology & Social Sciences – High-Performing Academy in Gloucester (January Start)

An outstanding, forward-thinking secondary academy in Gloucester is seeking an inspiring Head of Psychology & Social Sciences to lead its expanding faculty for a permanent January start.

This is a premier leadership opportunity to join a high-achieving school known for its strong academic results, excellent Sixth Form uptake, and supportive staff culture.

Job Overview

Psychology, Sociology, and Criminology represent some of the largest and most successful Sixth Form courses at this academy. The successful candidate will take strategic oversight of the faculty, driving curriculum design, assessment moderation, and academic standards across Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 (A-Level Psychology, A-Level Sociology, and Level 3 Criminology).

Leading a team of dedicated social science educators, you will ensure rigorous scientific methodology, empirical analysis, and evaluative writing are embedded across all subjects. This is a full-time, permanent leadership position.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership, management, and curriculum vision across Psychology, Sociology, and Criminology

• Line manage, mentor, and evaluate department teachers, maintaining high standards of teaching and Sixth Form mentoring

• Oversee internal assessment, NEA controlled assessments (Criminology), and external exam preparation to maximize pupil attainment

• Lead co-curricular subject activities, including Mind & Brain societies, mock trial competitions, and academic journal clubs

• Manage departmental budgets, specialized digital learning platforms, and revision resources

• Serve as a Sixth Form Tutor, delivering high-level UCAS references for Psychology, Law, and Criminology applicants

• Collaborate with Senior Leadership on Sixth Form recruitment and academic stretch initiatives

The School & What’s on Offer

• High-performing secondary academy environment with large Sixth Form cohorts

• Competitive salary paid to scale on MPS/UPS plus TLR 2b / TLR 1a allowance

• Permanent, full-time contract starting January

• Structured leadership development and pathways toward Senior Leadership (SLT)

• Convenient Gloucester location with great transport links across Gloucestershire and the Cotswolds

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or recognized UK teaching credentials (PGCE / SCITT / QTLS)

• Honors degree in Psychology, Sociology, Criminology, or a closely related social science discipline

• Proven track record of outstanding A-Level outcomes in Psychology or Social Sciences

• Demonstrated leadership capability (e.g., 2i/c, Subject Coordinator, or experienced Head of Department)

• Deep understanding of AQA, OCR, and WJEC exam board specifications and assessment criteria

How to Apply

Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this permanent Head of Psychology & Social Sciences post in Gloucester for a January start.