At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the English department, driving academic excellence across Key Stages 3–5.
- Company: Thriving secondary school in Birmingham with a commitment to exceptional education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and a supportive learning environment.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and potential for a permanent position.
- Why this job: Shape the future of English education and make a lasting impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and strong leadership experience required.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 60000 £ per year.
Job Description
Head of English Department – Secondary School Birmingham
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: MPS/UPS (dependent on experience)
Key Stage 4 & 5 Specialism
Are you ready to shape the future of English education in a growing and ambitious secondary school? We are currently recruiting for a dynamic, passionate, and outcomes-driven Head of English to join a thriving secondary school in Birmingham from September 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced English teacher or current middle leader to take the next step in their career and play a pivotal role in the development of an expanding English department and sixth form provision.
The successful candidate will lead a committed and talented team of teachers, driving academic excellence across Key Stages 3–5 while helping to shape and develop a high-performing sixth form English curriculum. This role offers the opportunity to make a lasting impact on both students and the wider school community.
The school is committed to:
- Delivering exceptional outcomes for all pupils
- Investing in staff through high-quality professional development
- Building a supportive and ambitious learning environment
- Promoting sustainability, growth and continuous improvement
The Role
The successful Head of English will:
- Lead and manage the English department across KS3–KS5
- Drive high standards of teaching, learning, and achievement
- Support and develop staff within the department
- Monitor progress and implement strategies to raise attainment
- Play a key role in developing the Key Stage 5 English curriculum
- Contribute to whole-school improvement initiatives
The Ideal Candidate Will:
- Hold Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Have strong subject knowledge and leadership experience
- Demonstrate a proven track record of securing strong academic outcomes
- Be capable of inspiring and leading a team to deliver exceptional teaching and learning
- Be excited by the opportunity to build and develop a sixth form English curriculum
- Share the school’s belief that education can transform lives and communities
If this sounds like the role for you please apply with your most up to date CV!
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’.
Head of English in Birmingham employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of English in Birmingham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend local teaching events, and connect with fellow educators on social media. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Understand their approach to English education and think about how your vision aligns with theirs. This will help you stand out as a candidate who’s genuinely interested in making a difference.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss your experience in managing teams and driving academic success. Use specific examples of how you've inspired others and improved outcomes in your previous roles.
✨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 are proactive and engaged in the process. Let’s get you that Head of English role!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of English in Birmingham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that align with the Head of English role. Highlight your leadership experience and any achievements in driving academic excellence, as this will catch our eye!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for English education and how you plan to inspire both students and staff. Be genuine and let your personality come through.
Showcase Your Vision: In your application, share your vision for the English department and how you would contribute to developing a high-performing sixth form curriculum. We love seeing candidates who are forward-thinking and ambitious!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and our school culture there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
As a Head of English, you'll need to demonstrate a deep understanding of the Key Stage 4 and 5 curriculum. Brush up on the latest educational trends and be ready to discuss how you would develop and enhance the English curriculum in your new role.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Highlight specific strategies you've implemented to drive academic excellence and support staff development, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Align with the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with the school's commitment to exceptional outcomes and professional development. Be ready to articulate how your values align with theirs and how you can contribute to their mission of transforming lives through education.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare insightful questions about the school's approach to teaching and learning, staff support, and future plans for the English department. This shows your genuine interest and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.