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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