Job Title
Head of Post Primary Department
Reports To
Principal
Job Purpose
The post of Head of Post Primary Department will be a key member of the School Senior Leadership Team. The Head will have major input into the formulation of school policy and strategy and will:
* Lead the work of the Post Primary Department and ensure the implementation of curricular initiatives
* Raise standards in teaching and learning within the Post Primary Department
* Encourage and empower staff to lead and manage change
* Take a lead role in transitions for pupils preparing to leave school
Key Responsibilities
* Co‑ordinate the work of the Post Primary Department, supporting and advising staff where appropriate
* Support the Principal and Vice Principal in the development and implementation of curricular initiatives
* Monitor the quality of teaching and learning within the Post Primary Department in line with school policy, providing regular updates to the SLT and BoG
* Review long‑term planning in Key Stages within the Post Primary Department to ensure coverage, progression and a range of learning experiences
* Monitor and promote effective transition arrangements for all pupils, coordinating the process for pupils leaving school
* Coordinate educational visits and liaise with the Designated Teacher regarding pastoral care and the School Counselling Service
* Ensure effective communication with the monitoring and referral system for Post Primary Department pupils
* Support department staff to meet P.R.S.D. targets and assist assessment coordinators in the submission of Key Stage data
* Ensure that KS4 and post‑16 curriculum is inclusive and meets the diverse needs of pupils
* Serve on the School Leadership Team, contributing to policy development and the preparation, implementation and monitoring of the School Development Plan
* Attend and participate in open/parent evenings, staff training, and professional development activities
* Maintain good relationships with staff, pupils, parents, governors and the local community, promoting the school’s ethos and values
Additional Duties (as occasionally required)
* Assist with school functions and parent meetings
* Chair departmental meetings and ensure policies and practices are implemented
* Participate in the audit of staff development and training needs, providing effective INSET
* Support the induction of new staff and students within the Post Primary Department
* Manage the maintenance of a structured environment for effective teaching and learning
* Assist with the review and development of management activities and administration as part of school operations
Person Specification
Essential Criteria
* Hold a recognised teaching qualification for post‑primary education in Northern Ireland
* Minimum of 5 years’ demonstrable paid experience of teaching in a post‑primary setting
* Minimum of 1 year paid experience of teaching pupils with SEN
* Experience of coordinating a whole‑school area, including monitoring and evaluation leading to measurable improvement
* Registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) before taking up the post
* Knowledge of the Northern Ireland Curriculum, safeguarding and child protection policy, SEND Code of Practice, and current assessment methods for pupils with SEN
* Effective teaching and classroom management skills, with a proven ability to provide a supportive, inclusive learning environment
* Strong collaborative skills and ability to work as an effective team member, engaging pupils, colleagues, parents and the wider community
Desirable Criteria
* Knowledge and experience of Careers Education and transition pathways for pupils with SEN
* Demonstrable experience in coordinating qualification pathways and additional leadership development or qualifications
* Experience in using digital classroom tools / mobile technologies to support learning
* Evidence of additional leadership and professional development activities
Other Information
Applicants must meet the requirements for Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background if the role involves regulated activity. The cost of the disclosure will be borne by the applicant.
Equal Opportunities
The Education Authority is an Equal Opportunities Employer.
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