At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the History & Politics department and inspire students and staff.
- Company: A well-rated Catholic school committed to excellence.
- Benefits: Excellent CPD opportunities, wellbeing provisions, and free gym access.
- Other info: Join a community that values growth and collaboration.
- Why this job: Shape future leaders in a supportive and dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Experienced educator with a vision for improvement and team leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We seek to appoint for September 2026, a well-qualified and visionary Head of History & Politics to lead the department.
Our ideal candidate will be:
- A well-qualified professional.
- An aspiring senior leader.
- An outstanding classroom practitioner with a proven track record of excellent results and a compelling vision for improvement.
- A colleague with experience of curriculum leadership, for example as a 2i/c.
- A collegiate approach and experience in supporting the development of colleagues.
- A team player, able to lead and inspire others.
- Fully supportive of the culture and ethos of our Catholic school.
What we offer you:
- Excellent CPD opportunities to grow and develop, including Middle Leader training and aspiring SLT programme.
- An Ofsted rated ‘good’ school.
- A section 48 rated 'outstanding' school.
- A number of wellbeing provisions, including a paid wellbeing day.
- Free access to the school gym.
- Free and secure staff parking on the school site.
CVs will be considered as additional information to support a fully completed application form.
For further information about this vacancy please contact us using Ref: HOD H/P 2026.
Head of History & Politics in Barnet employer: St James' Catholic High School
Contact Detail:
St James' Catholic High School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of History & Politics in Barnet
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the school to get the inside scoop on the culture and expectations. A friendly chat can give you valuable insights and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how your vision aligns with the school's ethos. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams and improved results in your previous roles. We want to see that passion!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During the interview, highlight how you inspire and support colleagues. Share stories that demonstrate your collegiate approach and how you've fostered a positive team environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email reiterating your enthusiasm for the role can leave a lasting impression. Plus, it shows that you’re genuinely interested in joining their team.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of History & Politics in Barnet
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for History and Politics shine through. We want to see your vision for the department and how you plan to inspire both students and colleagues.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements mentioned in the job description. Highlight your experience in curriculum leadership and how it aligns with our ethos as a Catholic school.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured responses that directly address the key points in the job description. Avoid fluff and focus on what makes you the ideal candidate.
Don’t Forget the CV: While the application form is crucial, remember that your CV can provide additional context about your achievements and experiences. Make sure it complements your application and showcases your journey as an educator.
How to prepare for a job interview at St James' Catholic High School
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
As a Head of History & Politics, you’ll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the curriculum. Brush up on the latest developments in both subjects and be ready to discuss how you would implement innovative teaching strategies to improve student outcomes.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your experience in supporting colleagues and fostering a collaborative environment. Be ready to discuss your vision for the department and how you plan to inspire others.
✨Align with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the culture and ethos of the Catholic school. Be prepared to articulate how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their community. This will show that you’re not just a fit for the role, but also for the school.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the school's goals, challenges, and support for professional development. This shows your genuine interest in the position and helps you assess if it’s the right fit for you.