Head of English, Wellesley Prep School
Wellesley Prep School is a warm, nurturing and ambitious school where English plays a central role in our curriculum. We are excited to welcome a new Head of English to lead our thriving department. We are seeking an ambitious and inspiring individual to deliver high-quality and stimulating teaching of English, while providing dynamic leadership across the department. The successful applicant will possess a strong academic background, at the heart of which is outstanding subject knowledge. Underpinned by a passionate and creative approach, the candidate will inspire a love of literature and language, and deliver excellence in all aspects of their work.
THE ROLE
Head of English
Line Manager: Director of Studies
Hours of Work: Full Time
Salary: Dependent on experience and qualifications, commensurate with industry standards
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Curriculum
The promotion of excellence in all respects.
The teaching of English from Year 3 to Year 8, preparing pupils for the Common Entrance equivalent examination at 13+ to a variety of leading independent senior schools nationally.
An awareness of how the English curriculum informs the path to CE and scholarship examinations for pupils.
The effective assessment, recording and reporting on the progress of pupils, incorporating effective written and verbal communication with parents.
Close liaison with the Head of Learning Support in order to best serve the needs of individual pupils.
The promotion of effective use of ICT across the curriculum.
Areas of Management Responsibility
To lead and manage the delivery of excellence across the English department, ensuring effective liaison with the Head of Pre-Prep and all English teaching staff.
To work closely with a wide variety of colleagues – e.g. the Director of Studies, Head of Learning Support and Form Tutors – to ensure the needs of all children are met.
To develop and maintain comprehensive departmental Schemes of Work and Curriculum Policies alongside a detailed and accurate resources inventory.
To maintain careful and effective departmental records of pupil progress to ensure highly effective communication with both colleagues and parents.
To chair departmental meetings, inspire subject initiatives and plan appropriate individual and departmental INSET.
The preparation and effective operation of the departmental annual budget, liaising closely with all key stakeholders as required.
Attendance at Head of Department meetings and the carrying out of professional duties as a Head of Department as required by the Headmaster.
The leadership and planning of relevant trips, visiting speakers and literary events.
Ensuring members of the department comply with marking, tracking and homework policies.
Arranging and overseeing peer observation within the department.
General
Ensuring the safety and well-being of pupils. Taking a full part in the life of the School community
PERSON SPECIFICATION
Knowledge, Skills and Experience Required
A passion, energy and enthusiasm for working with children, coupled with an ability to inspire a love of English.
Strong and relevant academic qualifications with outstanding subject knowledge in English language and literature.
Excellent classroom practice.
An up-to-date understanding of English curriculum developments.
Experience of, or a clear understanding of, the requirements of public school admissions arrangements, including pretests and scholarships.
First-class communication and organisational skills, coupled with the ability to use technology effectively in enhancing learning.
Strong interpersonal skills that promote confidence in dealing with colleagues, pupils and parents.
An effective team member, able to work flexibly and contribute positively to life in a busy and thriving school.
An ability and willingness to undertake a full and fair part in staff duties and responsibilities.
A positive approach to learning in role and identifying personal training needs as appropriate.
A full and active commitment to the welfare and safeguarding of children and young people.
A strong commitment to pastoral care.
Further interests and skills that allow for a strong contribution to other co-curricular aspects of life in the School.
A robust and resilient nature, coupled with a capability to work under pressure and with a sense of humour.
Qualifications
Teaching qualification and experience in English teaching.
Proven track record of excellent teaching and leadership (or emerging leadership potential).
Strong organisational skills.
Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
Strong ICT skills.
WORKING AT WELLESLEY
Immediately responsible to: Director of Studies
Hours of work: 8am – 5pm Monday – Friday
Full-time
Commencement Date: 1st September 2026
School Term time only (to include working days prior to the return and after the departure of pupils as may be necessary for the proper performance of your duties).
Notice Period: One school term.
Salary: Depending on experience.
Pension: Auto-enrolment into the School Pension Scheme.
School lunch provided.
On-site parking.
Discounts across the Wellington Estates’ businesses, including Wellington Farm Shop, Wellington Country Park, Wellington Riding, The Barns at Wellington and The Iron Duke.
Job Information
Job Category: Education
Job Type: Full Time - Permanent
Job Business: Wellesley Prep School
Job Location: Wellesley Prep School, Stratfield Turgis, Hook, Hampshire, RG27 0AR
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