Head of English

Up to £53,835 + TLR + excellent benefits

Our teachers are fulfilled by making even the smallest positive changes in our young people. We celebrate the little things and recognise that what may seem small can add up to a big difference. You will be working with children and young people with Autistic Spectrum Disorder / Social, Emotional and Mental Health needs. You will help them learn, develop their abilities and raise their self-esteem. You will need to be resilient and dedicated, but the huge small victories you achieve will be something you can be proud of.

There is support from in-house psychologists, teaching assistants and therapy professionals. You will work in well-resourced school environments with colleagues who are the best at what they do, and you will be supported every step of the way to build a rewarding teaching career.

Opening in Autumn term 2026, Ardenwood School will operate as the primary campus of The Secret Garden School, an all-through school spanning primary and secondary across two sites. Ardenwood is a purpose-built, state-of-the-art primary campus catering for up to 40 pupils with a wide range of needs, including autism and SEMH. This exciting opportunity serves Coventry and the wider communities; you are at the heart of its development. Our aim is to ensure every pupil continues to receive an outstanding educational experience, with individual progress, care and wellbeing at the centre of everything we do.

What we do for you

We know you’re going to do great things. For your hard work and commitment, we reward you with the best salary and benefits package in the education sector. With us, you’ll get to bring learning to life and make a genuine difference to the lives of our young people. You’ll also receive:

• Training: A full induction and on-the-job training
• Holiday: You’ll work hard, so you’ll be rewarded with full school holidays
• Progression: Most of our head teachers and leaders have been promoted from within our group
• Flexible benefits: You can adjust benefits such as life insurance
• Pension: A range of pensions to suit your lifestyle needs including Teachers' Pension and a TPS alternative
• Wellbeing: A host of wellbeing tools and advice including employee assistance
• Medical cover: Claim back costs for things like opticians or dentist appointments and access to high-street discounts
• Beautiful working environments with the very best facilities
• A refer-a-friend scheme offering a £1,000 bonus

Role focus

Bring your whole self to work. Our young people come from diverse backgrounds with different needs, and our workforce reflects that diversity. You’ll be able to connect with our pupils because of:

• Your can-do attitude – a team player who rolls up their sleeves to help others
• Your genuine passion for teaching English and the impact of the subject on young lives
• The ability to relate your subject to each pupil and build great relationships with your class
• Your enthusiasm and expertise to build your department
• Previous teaching experience and Qualified Teacher Status

Equality, diversity and safeguarding

We are committed to inclusion and to creating an environment where everyone feels respected, valued and that they belong. We welcome applications from people of all backgrounds, identities and abilities and are recognised as an inclusive employer. If you need adjustments to support you through the recruitment process or in the workplace, we’ll be there every step of the way. We will safeguard and promote the welfare of our young people, and this post is subject to an enhanced DBS check (cost covered) and an online search. We are an equal opportunities employer welcoming applications from all sections of the community.