Head of Computer Science – Outstanding Secondary School in Reading

An outstanding, high-performing secondary school in Reading is seeking to appoint a driven, inspiring Head of Computer Science to lead its successful Computing department for a January start. This is a premier leadership opportunity to join a thriving learning community celebrated for academic excellence, cutting-edge technology provision, and strong pastoral care.

This well-respected school has an established reputation for high scholastic standards, exemplary student behaviour, and a deep-rooted commitment to STEM education. The successful applicant will take full strategic oversight of the Computer Science department, driving curriculum design, coding standards, and academic provision across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level).

Leading a dedicated team of computing specialists, you will foster an innovative, high-energy environment that promotes computational thinking, software development, and digital literacy. This is a full-time, permanent leadership role suited to an accomplished, organized practitioner ready to shape the future of tech education.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership, management, and curriculum design for the Computer Science department across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4, and Key Stage 5.
• Line manage, mentor, and evaluate department staff to maintain high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Oversee the delivery of Python, theoretical computer science, and data structures to secure outstanding GCSE and A-Level exam outcomes.
• Expand and coordinate co-curricular tech initiatives, including coding clubs, robotics teams, cybersecurity challenges, and hackathons.
• Maintain high standards of hardware, software infrastructure, and laboratory safety in collaboration with the IT network team.
• Manage the departmental budget, software licensing, and equipment allocation effectively.
• Serve as a Form Tutor, contributing to the pastoral care, tracking, and wellbeing of your assigned year group.
• Shape whole-school digital strategy and cross-curricular STEM enrichment.

The School

This successful school in Reading is recognized for its impressive academic outcomes, forward-thinking leadership, and supportive work environment. Educators benefit from progressive senior management, state-of-the-art computer laboratories, and a collaborative staff culture where professional growth is actively championed.

The Computer Science department is central to the school’s academic vision, maintaining a clear focus on inspiring pupils to become creators of technology rather than just consumers.

What’s on Offer

• Empowering, high-achieving school environment.
• Competitive salary paid to scale on MPS/UPS plus generous TLR 2b / TLR 1 allowance (commensurate with leadership experience).
• Permanent, full-time contract starting January.
• Top-tier IT infrastructure and modern computing labs.
• Convenient Reading location with excellent transport links across Berkshire and London.

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or recognized UK teaching credentials (PGCE / SCITT).
• An honors degree in Computer Science, Software Engineering, or a closely related discipline.
• A proven track record of outstanding Computer Science delivery across KS3, KS4, and KS5 (A-Level).
• Demonstrated leadership experience (e.g., 2i/c, Key Stage Coordinator, or existing Head of Department).
• Exceptional organizational and team-management skills to direct department strategy and digital resources.
• An ambitious, forward-thinking, and resilient approach to computer science education and subject leadership.

Application

To be considered for this Head of Computer Science leadership post in Reading, please submit your CV as soon as possible for a January start.