At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an outstanding RE department and inspire students and staff.
- Company: A supportive Catholic school with a strong community spirit.
- Benefits: Excellent CPD opportunities, wellbeing provisions, and free gym access.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a school focused on human flourishing.
- Qualifications: Practising Catholic with proven teaching excellence and leadership skills.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to professional development and work-life balance.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 ÂŁ per year.
We seek to appoint for September 2026, a practising Catholic who is a dynamic and inspirational Head of Religious Education (RE) to lead an 'outstanding' RE Department (Section 48 inspection January 2020).
As a Catholic school, RE is a Core department; all pupils study RE at KS3, KS4 (GCSE AQA Spec B), KS5 (all pupils study Core RE) and we offer Edexcel A-Level Religious Studies. We welcome applications from candidates currently in similar roles or aspiring Middle and Senior Leaders. The successful candidate will benefit from the support and line management of the Headteacher.
Qualifications
- Be a practising Catholic (The Head of the RE Department is a reserved role in a Catholic school).
- An outstanding classroom practitioner with a proven track record of excellent results and a compelling vision for improvement.
- Committed to working in pursuit of success for pupils and of raising standards.
- A team player, able to lead and inspire colleagues and pupils alike.
- Ability to teach to A-level.
- Sympathetic to the aims, ethos and values of the school.
- Able to build on a highly effective curriculum.
Benefits
- 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.
- Wellâresourced RE teaching base.
- 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.
- A strong community spirit; staff who are very supportive towards each other with great camaraderie throughout the school.
- The leadership team is committed to the professional and personal development of our teachers, and we actively look for ways to make sure that workâlife balance is a reality.
If you are an enthusiastic, creative, wellâorganised professional who wants to develop your craft in a school where human flourishing is at the heart of what we do, we would love to hear from you.
We may interview candidates ahead of the closing date so early application is advised. The school reserves the right to interview and appoint prior to the advertised closing date. This advert may be closed at any time.
The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check.
For further information about this vacancy please contact us using Ref: RE HoD 2026.
Head of Religious Education in Barnet employer: St James' Catholic High School
Contact Detail:
St James' Catholic High School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice đ¤Ť
We think this is how you could land Head of Religious Education in Barnet
â¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the schoolâs ethos and values inside out. When you walk into that interview, show them youâre not just a fit for the role but also for their community. We want to see your passion for Catholic education shine through!
â¨Tip Number 2
Prepare some killer examples of your teaching success and leadership experience. Think about how you've inspired students and colleagues in the past. We love hearing about real-life impact, so make it relatable and engaging!
â¨Tip Number 3
Donât forget to ask questions during the interview! Show us youâre genuinely interested in the role and the school. We want to know what you think about our curriculum and how you can contribute to our outstanding RE department.
â¨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for a smoother process. Itâs the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we might even spot your enthusiasm before the closing date and reach out for an early chat!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Religious Education in Barnet
Some tips for your application đŤĄ
Show Your Passion for RE: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Religious Education shine through. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and improved their understanding of the subject. We want to see your dynamic approach!
Align with Our Values: Make sure to highlight your commitment to the Catholic ethos and values of our school. Weâre looking for someone who not only understands but embodies these principles in their teaching and leadership style.
Be Specific About Your Achievements: Donât just say youâre an outstanding practitioner; back it up with evidence! Include details about your track record of results and any innovative projects you've led. We love to see concrete examples of your impact.
Apply Early!: Since we may interview candidates before the closing date, donât wait until the last minute to submit your application. Get your application in through our website as soon as possible to ensure you donât miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at St James' Catholic High School
â¨Know Your Faith
As a practising Catholic, it's crucial to demonstrate your understanding of the faith and how it informs your teaching. Be prepared to discuss how you integrate Catholic values into your curriculum and inspire students in their spiritual journey.
â¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Highlight your experience in leading teams and improving educational outcomes. Share specific examples of how you've motivated colleagues and students, and be ready to discuss your vision for the RE department and how you plan to raise standards.
â¨Engage with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's mission and values. During the interview, express how your personal philosophy aligns with the school's ethos and how you can contribute to its community spirit and commitment to human flourishing.
â¨Prepare for Curriculum Questions
Expect questions about the RE curriculum, including GCSE and A-Level specifications. Be ready to discuss innovative teaching methods you've used and how you plan to build on the existing curriculum to enhance student engagement and success.