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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Drama department, designing an ambitious curriculum and directing performances.
- Company: A prestigious independent school in Reading known for academic and creative excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Shape the future of a top Drama department and nurture talented students.
- Qualifications: Degree in Drama, teaching qualification, and strong leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community focused on creativity and student well-being.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Reading, Berkshire
Start Date: January 2026
Nature: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: Independent PayScale + TLR
Are you an inspiring Drama specialist ready to lead an outstanding department in one of the country’s most respected independent schools? Our client, a distinguished co-educational independent school with an exceptional reputation for academic and creative excellence, is seeking a Head of Drama to join their vibrant Performing Arts faculty. This rare opportunity offers the chance to shape the creative vision of a nationally recognised Drama department while working with talented, motivated students and a supportive leadership team.
The School Staff consistently describe the school as having a strong sense of community and pride, with an outstanding focus on well-being and professional development. Parents praise its individualised care and commitment to excellence, while students benefit from a broad and enriching PSMSC (Personal, Social, Moral, Spiritual and Cultural) education that fosters character and confidence.
Your Role as Head of Drama
- Provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction for the Drama department.
- Design, deliver and evaluate an ambitious curriculum from KS3 to KS5, ensuring creativity and challenge at every stage.
- Direct and produce a range of school performances and theatre events, showcasing student talent and enriching the cultural life of the school.
- Support and mentor teaching staff within the department, fostering collaboration and professional growth.
- Work closely with senior leaders to maintain the department’s position as one of national excellence.
Person Specification
- A passionate and experienced Drama educator with a proven track record of outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
- Degree in Drama (or related discipline) and a recognised teaching qualification (QTS or equivalent).
- Strong leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- Visionary approach to curriculum development and a flair for performance direction.
- Commitment to the holistic development of students within an independent school ethos.
- Legal right to work in the UK.
Why Join This School?
- Opportunity to lead a department ranked among the top in the country.
- Exceptional professional development and leadership support.
- A culture of creativity, collaboration and academic excellence.
- Outstanding facilities and performance spaces.
- A strong sense of community, wellbeing, and shared purpose.
If you are ready to take the next step in your teaching career and lead a department that celebrates artistic excellence and innovation, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a covering letter as soon as possible to be considered for this Head of Drama opportunity.
Head of Drama - Independent School in Reading employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Drama - Independent School in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those involved in drama or performing arts. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and get your name out there.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to interview, bring your creative vision to life. Share examples of past performances or innovative curriculum ideas that highlight your leadership skills and commitment to student development.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the school thoroughly! Understand their ethos, values, and recent achievements in the arts. This will help you tailor your approach and demonstrate how you can contribute to their already outstanding reputation.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We make it easy for you to submit your application and keep track of your progress. Plus, it shows you're serious about joining our community and leading the Drama department to new heights.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Drama - Independent School in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for drama and leadership experience. We want to see how you can inspire students and staff alike, so don’t hold back on sharing your vision for the department.
Tailor Your CV: When applying, tailor your CV to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Drama role. We’re looking for evidence of your teaching excellence and leadership capabilities, so make sure these stand out!
Showcase Your Achievements: Don’t just list your responsibilities; showcase your achievements! Whether it’s a successful production or innovative curriculum development, we want to see how you’ve made an impact in your previous roles.
Apply Through Our Website: To ensure your application gets the attention it deserves, apply through our website. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you quickly!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Drama Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and techniques in drama education. Familiarise yourself with the curriculum from KS3 to KS5, and be ready to discuss how you would enhance it. This shows your passion and commitment to the role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership approach and how you plan to inspire and mentor your team. Think of specific examples where you've successfully led a project or supported colleagues, as this will demonstrate your capability to lead the department effectively.
✨Bring Your Creative Vision
Be ready to share your ideas for future performances and events. Discuss how you would enrich the cultural life of the school and engage students creatively. This is your chance to show how you can elevate the department’s profile.
✨Connect with the School's Values
Research the school’s ethos and values, especially their focus on community and well-being. Be prepared to explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with theirs, and how you can contribute to their strong sense of community and commitment to excellence.
