Head of English Independent Day School Staffordshire

A respected co-educational independent day school in Staffordshire is seeking an accomplished and forward-thinking Head of English to lead its successful department. The school is known for combining strong academic results with excellent pastoral care and a rich co-curricular programme.

English is one of the school’s flagship subjects, with consistently high GCSE and A-Level outcomes and strong progression to Russell Group universities. The department plays a central role in shaping students’ intellectual development, confidence and communication skills.

The Role

As Head of English, you will provide strategic and academic leadership across KS3–KS5. This is both a teaching and leadership role, requiring a visible presence in the classroom alongside clear departmental direction.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Leading curriculum development and sequencing across all year groups
• Teaching English Language and Literature to A-Level
• Driving examination outcomes and academic stretch
• Line managing and mentoring departmental colleagues
• Promoting enrichment such as debating, creative writing and theatre visits
• Contributing to whole-school academic strategy

The role offers appropriate leadership time to focus on departmental planning and staff development.

The English Department

The department benefits from small class sizes and a strong culture of scholarship. Schemes of work are well-established but open to refinement and innovation under new leadership.

Department strengths include:

• Strong GCSE and A-Level performance
• High levels of student engagement and literary discussion
• Established links with Drama and wider Humanities
• Opportunities for extended essay and academic enrichment

There is scope to further develop cross-curricular literacy initiatives and deepen A-Level provision.

The School Environment

Set within attractive grounds in Staffordshire, the school blends historic buildings with modern teaching spaces. Students are articulate, respectful and academically ambitious, creating a purposeful and intellectually engaging learning environment.

Pastoral systems are robust and well-structured, and staff are encouraged to contribute to wider school life, including clubs, societies and enrichment activities.

Facilities include:

• Dedicated English classrooms
• A well-stocked central library
• Sixth Form study and seminar spaces
• Performance and lecture facilities

Leadership promotes professional autonomy and academic excellence.

Who We’re Looking For

The successful candidate will:

• Hold QTS and demonstrate strong academic credentials in English
• Have experience teaching to A-Level
• Possess proven middle leadership or departmental leadership experience
• Show the ability to drive curriculum and assessment improvement
• Inspire both staff and students through high expectations

Independent school experience is desirable but not essential for a strong candidate with proven leadership capability.

What’s On Offer

• Competitive independent school salary with leadership allowance
• Small class sizes and motivated learners
• Strong academic culture
• Leadership responsibility within a respected institution
• Professional development and progression opportunities

This is a significant leadership opportunity for an English specialist seeking to shape and strengthen a key department within a prestigious Staffordshire independent school.