Write a short description of your company, a boilerplate of the business, service or product that you offer. Include your business idea and the target audience. This text is primarily supposed to be descriptive, not selling.
A well-established and highly regarded independent school in Staffordshire is seeking an inspiring and strategic Head of English to lead its successful department. This is a rare opportunity to shape the direction of English within a school known for academic excellence, strong pastoral care and a rich co-curricular life.
The school educates pupils from Key Stage 3 through to Sixth Form and has a strong tradition of outstanding results at both GCSE and A-Level. English is one of its flagship subjects, with consistently high attainment and a vibrant literary culture that extends well beyond the classroom.
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The School
Set within impressive grounds and combining historic architecture with modern learning spaces, this independent school offers small class sizes, excellent behaviour and a culture of intellectual curiosity.
Students are articulate, motivated and well-supported. Many progress to leading universities, including Russell Group institutions, often pursuing English, Law, History and related disciplines.
The school places strong emphasis on:
• Academic depth and critical thinking
• High expectations with individual pastoral care
• Enrichment through literature, theatre and public speaking
• Preparation for university and beyond
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The Role
As Head of English, you will lead curriculum design, academic standards and departmental strategy across KS3–KS5. You will manage a team of experienced and committed teachers, maintaining high performance while continuing to refine and innovate the curriculum.
Your responsibilities will include:
• Setting the strategic vision for English across the school
• Overseeing GCSE and A-Level outcomes
• Leading departmental meetings and professional development
• Supporting UCAS preparation and personal statement guidance
• Encouraging wider reading and literary enrichment
• Contributing to whole-school academic leadership
The curriculum blends canonical texts with modern and diverse voices, ensuring breadth, challenge and academic rigour.
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The Department
The English department enjoys a strong academic reputation. Results at GCSE and A-Level are consistently high, with many students achieving top grades.
The department benefits from:
• Dedicated English classrooms
• A well-resourced library and quiet study spaces
• Regular theatre trips and author visits
• Active debating and creative writing societies
• Structured internal moderation processes
Collaboration is strong, and teachers are encouraged to bring scholarly depth and passion to their lessons.
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Co-Curricular Contribution
As a senior middle leader, you will also contribute to the broader life of the school. This may include:
• Leading literary societies or enrichment events
• Supporting school productions or public speaking competitions
• Acting as a pastoral tutor within the house system
• Representing the department at open events and academic showcases
Independent schools value leaders who are visible, engaged and invested in the wider school community.
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Who We’re Looking For
The successful candidate will:
• Hold QTS or equivalent experience within an independent or high-performing setting
• Have a strong academic background in English
• Demonstrate a proven track record of excellent outcomes
• Possess leadership experience within a department
• Be articulate, organised and strategically minded
• Value both academic excellence and pastoral support
Experience teaching A-Level English Literature is essential.
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What’s On Offer
• Competitive independent school salary with leadership enhancement
• Small class sizes and high-achieving students
• Generous CPD and leadership development
• Free on-site parking and term-time meals
• A collegiate and academically ambitious environment
This is an outstanding opportunity to lead English in a prestigious Staffordshire independent school where scholarship, culture and care are equally valued.