At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic History department and inspire students to excel in their studies.
- Company: Forward-thinking secondary school in Stockton-on-Tees with a focus on Humanities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership scale, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to innovative teaching and student success.
- Why this job: Shape the future of History education and make a lasting impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Good degree in History, QTS, and strong subject knowledge up to GCSE/A Level.
The predicted salary is between 55000 - 65000 € per year.
Location: Stockton-on-Tees
Contract: Full Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: Leadership scale (commensurate with experience)
About the Role
We are seeking an ambitious and inspirational Head of History to lead a thriving Humanities department in a forward‑thinking secondary school in Stockton. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced practitioner to shape curriculum direction, drive high standards of teaching and learning, and secure outstanding outcomes for students at Key Stage 3 and 4, with potential Key Stage 5 provision. The successful candidate will provide clear strategic leadership for History, ensuring a coherent, knowledge‑rich curriculum and consistently high‑quality teaching across the department.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the History department, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and achievement
- Develop and implement a rigorous, ambitious History curriculum across KS3–KS4 (KS5 desirable)
- Use assessment data effectively to track progress and raise attainment
- Monitor and evaluate teaching quality, providing coaching and support to colleagues
- Promote effective teaching strategies, including assessment for learning and adaptive teaching
- Ensure curriculum intent, implementation, and impact are clearly evidenced and reviewed
- Contribute to whole‑school improvement and Humanities faculty leadership
- Support exam preparation strategies to maximise student outcomes
Essential Criteria
- Good degree in History or a closely related discipline
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Strong subject knowledge in History up to GCSE and/or A Level
- Proven record of strong examination results
- Recent and relevant teaching experience in secondary education
- Experience of assessment at Key Stage 3 and 4
- Experience of leading or managing a team within a school setting
- Strong classroom practitioner able to model outstanding teaching practice
- Secure understanding of curriculum design and developments in History
- Knowledge of strategies to improve student progress and attainment
- Understanding of assessment for learning principles
- Strong passion and enthusiasm for History and its place in the curriculum
Desirable Attributes
- Experience teaching Key Stage 5 History
- Evidence of leading curriculum innovation or departmental improvement
- Experience of mentoring or developing early career teachers
- Engagement with educational research to improve practice
Location Context
The school is based in Stockton-on-Tees, easily accessible from Middlesbrough, Yarm, Hartlepool, and surrounding Teesside areas.
Humanities Head of Department employer: Protocol Education Ltd
Join a dynamic and innovative secondary school in Stockton-on-Tees, where we prioritise high standards of teaching and learning within a supportive and collaborative work culture. As the Head of History, you will have the opportunity to lead a passionate team, shape the curriculum, and contribute to the professional growth of both students and staff, all while enjoying the benefits of a permanent position with competitive leadership scale salary. Our commitment to educational excellence and community engagement makes us an exceptional employer for those seeking a meaningful career in education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Humanities Head of Department
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local teaching events, and connect with people in the Humanities field. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for History! When you get the chance to chat with potential employers, share your innovative ideas for curriculum development and how you plan to inspire students. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and recent achievements. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with their goals. This will demonstrate that you’re not just looking for any job, but that you’re genuinely interested in being part of their team.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Humanities Head of Department
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for History:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for History shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and made the subject come alive in your classroom.
Tailor Your Curriculum Vision:Make sure to outline your vision for the History curriculum. We want to see how you plan to develop a knowledge-rich programme that engages students at all levels, so be clear about your ideas and strategies.
Highlight Leadership Experience:If you've led a team or managed a department before, shout about it! Detail your experience in coaching colleagues and driving high standards, as this is key for the Head of Department role.
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.
How to prepare for a job interview at Protocol Education Ltd
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the History curriculum, especially at Key Stage 3 and 4. Be prepared to discuss how you would develop and implement a rigorous and ambitious curriculum that engages students and drives high standards.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Department, you'll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and manage a team. Think of examples where you've successfully coached colleagues or improved teaching quality. Highlight your experience in mentoring early career teachers if you have it!
✨Use Data to Your Advantage
Be ready to talk about how you’ve used assessment data to track progress and raise attainment in your previous roles. Discuss specific strategies you’ve implemented to monitor and evaluate teaching quality effectively.
✨Passion for History is Key
Let your enthusiasm for History shine through! Share your thoughts on its importance in the curriculum and how you can inspire students to appreciate the subject. This will show your genuine commitment to the role and the students.
