At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the English department to achieve excellence across KS3, KS4, and KS5.
- Company: Vibrant 3-19 Academy in a stunning, award-winning building.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, performance bonuses, wellbeing support, and a fantastic working environment.
- Other info: Join a collaborative culture with clear career pathways and professional growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of English education and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: QTS and a strong degree, with at least three years of teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 65642 - 72010 £ per year.
Head of English | South Thamesmead Leadership Scale L8-L12 (£65,642 - £72,010) Permanent, Full-Time | Start Date: September 2026
Are you an inspiring educator with the vision to lead a flagship department? We are seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of English to join a vibrant 3-19 Academy housed in a stunning, award-winning building designed by Norman Foster. Located in the heart of South Thamesmead, our academy is a community of "drive and ambition." With excellent rail links and easy access via the Elizabeth Line, we offer a high-achieving environment where innovation in the curriculum is not just welcomed - it's expected.
The Role
As the Head of English, you will be the driving force behind student progress across KS3, KS4, and KS5. You will be accountable for setting the strategic direction of the department, ensuring that every student - from those just discovering a love for literature to those heading for top-tier universities - receives a world-class education.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Leadership: Formulate and implement rigorous department improvement plans.
- Curriculum Excellence: Develop innovative schemes of work that integrate new technologies and "Learning to Learn" strategies.
- Team Development: Build, recruit, and mentor a motivated team of specialists using coaching models to ensure peak performance.
- Literacy Advocacy: Lead the academy-wide literacy strategy to raise standards across all disciplines.
- Quality Assurance: Manage monitoring and evaluation processes to ensure "outstanding" teaching is the department standard.
What We Are Looking For
We want to hear from leaders who are passionate about English and even more passionate about social mobility.
Qualifications:
- QTS (or equivalent) and a strong relevant undergraduate degree.
Experience:
- A minimum of three years of teaching experience with a proven track record of raising student achievement.
Leadership:
- Experience managing change, leading others, and implementing successful monitoring and review processes.
Skills:
- Exceptional ICT skills and a flair for presenting to diverse audiences, from students to governors.
Mindset:
- A collaborative leader who views coaching as the primary tool for professional growth.
Why Join Us?
We don't just invest in our students; we invest heavily in our staff. You will benefit from a culture of collaboration and a clear career pathway through our dedicated Institute of Teaching and Leadership.
The Benefits Package:
- Competitive Salary: L8-L12 (Outer London Scale).
- Financial Rewards: Performance and Loyalty Bonus + Outer London Allowance.
- Wellbeing: Comprehensive Wellbeing Cash Plan and Employee Assistance Programme.
- Security: Teachers' Pension Scheme (TPS).
- Environment: A purpose-built, architecturally renowned working environment with state-of-the-art facilities.
Application Details
If you have the expertise to lead a department toward excellence and the ambition to grow within a leading educational network, we want to meet you. Please note: We are unable to offer visa sponsorship for this role. Applicants must have the permanent right to work in the UK. Apply Today to shape the future of English education in South Thamesmead.
Head of English — Lead KS3–KS5, Innovative Curriculum employer: Randstad Education
Join our vibrant 3-19 Academy in South Thamesmead, where we prioritise both student and staff development in a stunning, award-winning environment. As the Head of English, you will thrive in a culture that champions innovation and collaboration, with access to a clear career pathway through our dedicated Institute of Teaching and Leadership. Enjoy a competitive salary, comprehensive wellbeing support, and the opportunity to make a significant impact on students' lives while working in a community driven by ambition.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of English — Lead KS3–KS5, Innovative Curriculum
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the academy through LinkedIn or social media. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a referral!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by researching the latest trends in English education. Bring fresh ideas on curriculum innovation that align with their vision—show them you’re the perfect fit!
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your presentation skills! You might need to present your vision for the department, so rehearse your pitch until it’s smooth and engaging. Remember, confidence is key!
✨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 connect directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of English — Lead KS3–KS5, Innovative Curriculum
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for English:When writing your application, let your love for English shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and fostered a love for literature in your previous roles. We want to see your enthusiasm and commitment to making a difference.
Highlight Your Leadership Experience:Make sure to detail your leadership journey. Talk about how you've managed change, led teams, and implemented successful strategies in the classroom. We’re looking for someone who can drive our department forward, so show us how you’ve done it before!
Be Innovative with Your Ideas:We value creativity, so don’t hold back! Share your innovative ideas for curriculum development and how you plan to integrate new technologies into your teaching. This is your chance to showcase your vision for the future of English education.
Tailor Your Application:Take the time to tailor your application to our academy's values and goals. Mention how your experience aligns with our focus on social mobility and collaboration. Remember, applying through our website is the best way to ensure we see your application!
How to prepare for a job interview at Randstad Education
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and innovations in English education. Familiarise yourself with the current curriculum and think about how you can integrate new technologies and 'Learning to Learn' strategies into your teaching approach.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership philosophy and how you’ve successfully managed change in previous roles. Think of specific examples where you’ve built and mentored a team, and be ready to explain how you use coaching as a tool for professional growth.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Literacy
Be prepared to talk about your vision for raising literacy standards across all disciplines. Share any initiatives you’ve led or been part of that have positively impacted student achievement and engagement in English.
✨Engage with the Interview Panel
Remember, interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the academy’s culture, the support for staff development, and how they envision the role of Head of English evolving. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.
