At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant Geography department and inspire students to explore the world.
- Company: Putney High School, a top UK independent girls' school with a strong academic reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, professional development, and discounts for GDST schools.
- Why this job: Shape young minds and make a real impact on students' understanding of global issues.
- Qualifications: Strong teaching skills and a passion for Geography education.
- Other info: Join a supportive network of educators and enjoy excellent career growth opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Putney High School is looking for a dynamic, innovative, and well-qualified Head of Geography to lead our highly successful, vibrant Geography department. The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the ability to model and promote outstanding teaching and learning; will have the skills to support and empower their team; and will have the vision to play a key role in the strategic leadership of Geography, both in the classroom and beyond.
Through the study of Geography at Putney, students develop a deep understanding of the world around them and the diverse physical and human processes that shape it. Our teaching emphasises enquiry, critical thinking, and the interpretation of real-world data. We aim to cultivate curiosity about global issues and equip students with the skills to analyse, question, and respond to the challenges facing our rapidly changing planet.
We provide a rich range of co-curricular opportunities, including Geography clubs, competitions, and extension activities that encourage students to apply geographical thinking beyond the classroom. We run curriculum residentials for Year 10 and Year 12 to Dorset and Snowdonia, providing opportunities to explore coastal and glaciated environments first-hand. We also offer optional overseas expeditions to destinations such as Iceland, Morocco, Sicily, and the Azores, giving students the chance to see powerful geographical processes in action and broaden their global perspective.
The department is high-achieving and currently consists of five teachers. We are supported by a collaborative network of GDST Heads of Geography who share best practice and expertise across the Trust.
About the School: As one of the UK’s leading schools, Putney High School is rightly proud of its exceptional academic results and pastoral care. A spirit of intellectual agility and engagement is at the heart of the school’s ethos, with pupils stretched, challenged, and supported inside the classroom and beyond. The school is set in leafy, tranquil grounds close to the heart of Putney and to the River Thames. The school is part of the GDST, the UK’s leading network of independent girls’ schools.
We can offer a variety of benefits, such as:
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Competitive terms and conditions of employment
- Generous pension scheme
- Free life assurance benefit
- A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and season ticket loans
- A Cycle to Work scheme
- Retail and lifestyle discounts
- Financial guidance and support
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
For further information and to apply for this exciting opportunity please click apply. Applications must be received by Tuesday 24th March 2026 at 9am. Interview date: Tuesday 31st March 2026.
Putney High School and the GDST are committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. Putney High School and the GDST are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including online checks, checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Head of Geography in London employer: PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL
Contact Detail:
PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Geography in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Putney High School or other GDST schools. A friendly chat can give us insider info on the school culture and what they really value in a Head of Geography.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your teaching flair! Prepare a mini-lesson or presentation that highlights your innovative teaching methods. This will not only impress during interviews but also demonstrate your ability to engage students in critical thinking.
✨Tip Number 3
Get involved in co-curricular activities! Think about how you can enhance the Geography department with exciting clubs or trips. Mentioning these ideas in your interview will show us your commitment to enriching student experiences beyond the classroom.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows us you’re serious about joining our vibrant community at Putney High School.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Geography in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Geography: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Geography shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students or engaged them in critical thinking about global issues. We want to see your love for the subject and how you can bring that energy to our team.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of Putney High School. Highlight your experience with innovative teaching methods and how you plan to lead our vibrant Geography department. We’re looking for someone who aligns with our ethos, so show us why you’re the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and vision for the role. Remember, clarity is key!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we offer at Putney High School.
How to prepare for a job interview at PUTNEY HIGH SCHOOL
✨Know Your Geography Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and challenges in Geography education. Familiarise yourself with the curriculum and be ready to discuss how you would enhance teaching methods and engage students in critical thinking about global issues.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Think about how you can empower your colleagues and foster a collaborative environment, as this is key for the Head of Geography role.
✨Engage with Real-World Data
Be prepared to discuss how you would incorporate real-world data into your lessons. Think of specific examples where you've done this before, and how it can help students develop a deeper understanding of geographical processes.
✨Highlight Co-Curricular Initiatives
Put together some ideas for co-curricular activities that could enrich the Geography department. Whether it's clubs, competitions, or residential trips, showing your enthusiasm for extending learning beyond the classroom will impress the interviewers.