Head Of English

Head Of English

Full-Time 47185 - 131056 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
Philosophy Education

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead the English department and create an engaging learning environment for students.
  • Company: A popular secondary school in Wandsworth with a mission to excel.
  • Benefits: Opportunity for permanent position, professional development, and a supportive community.
  • Other info: Join a diverse, ambitious team committed to equality and safeguarding.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and help shape the future of education.
  • Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status, relevant degree, and experience in teaching and leadership.

The predicted salary is between 47185 - 131056 £ per year.

We are currently working with a secondary school in Wandsworth who are looking for a Head of English to join their school on a full-time basis from September 2026.

The Role

In this role you will be teaching English, while also leading the department in creating an exciting learning environment, raising attainment and achievement. The role is likely to start as a long-term temporary role with the opportunity to be made permanent for the right candidate.

The school are looking for a teacher with the following:

  • Qualified Teacher Status
  • Relevant degree
  • Outstanding classroom practitioner or driven to be so
  • Ideally have experience teaching A-level
  • Experience of leading a department or an ambitious 2ic
  • A proactive and engaging teaching approach
  • Understanding of the requirements for high quality teaching
  • Ability to use ICT effectively
  • Ability to fulfil the requirements of a Form Tutor
  • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and an ability to relate to people at all levels
  • Excellent administration skills and the ability to meet deadlines

About The School

The school in Wandsworth is a popular secondary school within the area and has an extremely ambitious headteacher who is on a mission for the school to be recognised as one of the best in the country. The school’s ethos is all about ambition, perseverance and unity within the school and the local community. It is a very popular, multi-cultural school that puts equality, safeguarding and inclusion at the heart of its ethos. They are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

The successful applicant will be subject to pre-employment checks including an enhanced DBS check. We have a policy to respond to all applications within three working days. However, because of the volume of applications, we are sometimes unable to reply to individual enquiries. If we have not contacted you within this specified time, your application has been unsuccessful on this occasion.

Philosophy Education is a Recruitment Business and is advertising this vacancy on behalf of one of its clients.

Head Of English employer: Philosophy Education

Join a vibrant and ambitious secondary school in Wandsworth as the Head of English, where you will lead a dedicated team in fostering an engaging learning environment. With a strong commitment to equality, safeguarding, and inclusion, this school offers a supportive work culture that prioritises professional development and growth opportunities for its staff. Be part of a community that values ambition and perseverance, making a meaningful impact on students' lives while working towards becoming one of the best schools in the country.

Philosophy Education

Contact Details:

Philosophy Education Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land Head Of English

Tip Number 1

Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local events, and connect with other teachers on social media. 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’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your teaching philosophy aligns with their mission. This will demonstrate that you're not just looking for any job, but that you genuinely want to be part of their community.

Tip Number 3

Showcase your leadership skills! If you've led a department or taken on additional responsibilities, be ready to discuss specific examples. Highlight how you’ve created an engaging learning environment and improved student outcomes.

Tip Number 4

Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you every step of the way, so let’s get you that Head of English role!

We think you need these skills to ace Head Of English

Qualified Teacher Status
Relevant Degree
Outstanding Classroom Practitioner
Experience Teaching A-level
Department Leadership Experience
Proactive Teaching Approach
Understanding of High Quality Teaching Requirements

Some tips for your application 🫡

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Head of English role. Highlight your relevant experience, especially any leadership roles or teaching achievements that align with what the school is looking for.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for teaching and how you can contribute to creating an exciting learning environment at the school. Be sure to mention your proactive approach and any innovative ideas you have.

Showcase Your Communication Skills:Since excellent communication is key for this role, make sure your application reflects this. Use clear and concise language, and don’t forget to proofread for any errors. We want to see your attention to detail!

Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to receive your application and keep track of everything. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team!

How to prepare for a job interview at Philosophy Education

Know Your Curriculum Inside Out

Make sure you’re well-versed in the English curriculum, especially at A-level. Be prepared to discuss how you would enhance student engagement and achievement in your lessons. Think about specific strategies you’ve used or plan to use that align with the school’s ethos of ambition and inclusion.

Showcase Your Leadership Skills

As a potential Head of English, it’s crucial to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a department or contributed to team initiatives. Highlight your proactive approach to creating a positive learning environment and how you can inspire your colleagues.

Engage with the School's Vision

Research the school’s mission and values thoroughly. During the interview, connect your teaching philosophy and experiences to their goals of raising attainment and fostering unity within the community. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but are genuinely interested in contributing to their vision.

Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect to be asked about real-life classroom scenarios. Think about challenges you’ve faced and how you overcame them, particularly in relation to using ICT effectively and meeting deadlines. Being able to articulate these experiences will demonstrate your readiness for the role.