Head of English Jobs in United Kingdom

A large and well-established secondary school in Birmingham is seeking an experienced and inspiring Head of English to lead a key department at the heart of the school’s curriculum. This is an exciting opportunity for a confident English specialist to drive standards, shape curriculum strategy and build on a strong foundation of teaching and learning across Key Stages 3 and 4. The school serves a diverse local community and is known for its clear behaviour systems, strong focus on academic progress and a supportive culture where staff are encouraged to develop professionally and take on leadership responsibility. The Role As Head of English , you will provide strategic and day-to-day leadership for a busy department, ensuring consistently high-quality teaching and strong outcomes for all learners. You will: • Lead curriculum planning across KS3 and KS4, ensuring a well-sequenced journey in reading, writing and oracy • Drive high expectations in literacy, analytical writing and vocabulary development • Support and coach colleagues through shared planning, modelling, and purposeful feedback • Use data effectively to identify priorities, close gaps and secure rapid progress • Contribute to whole-school literacy strategy and play an active role in raising standards across the school You will teach English across the age range and, depending on timetabling, may also contribute to KS5 . The curriculum aims to build deep understanding of language and literature while developing students’ confidence in writing, interpretation and discussion. Students study a broad range of texts including novels, drama and poetry, with a strong focus on developing the skills needed for GCSE success: close analysis, comparison, structured argument, and accurate, fluent writing. The Department The English department is a hardworking, supportive team with a shared commitment to improving outcomes and building students’ confidence as readers and writers. Staff collaborate to plan lessons, moderate work and share resources to ensure consistency across classes. English is a high-profile subject within the school, and the department plays a vital role in improving literacy and academic success across all areas. The team values: • Strong routines and clear lesson structure • Explicit teaching of reading and writing strategies • High-quality modelling and purposeful practice • A culture of feedback that helps students improve The new Head of English will be supported by senior leaders and will have the opportunity to shape the department’s direction, develop staff expertise and strengthen enrichment and reading culture. The School As a large secondary school, the setting offers strong systems, clear expectations and a well-established pastoral structure. Behaviour routines are consistent across the school, creating calm classrooms where teachers can focus on teaching. Leaders place strong emphasis on staff development, offering training and leadership opportunities at all stages of career. The school also values inclusive practice, ensuring that all learners—including those with SEND and EAL—are supported effectively through strong teaching and targeted intervention. What the School is Looking For The successful candidate will: • Hold QTS (or an equivalent teaching qualification) • Be an excellent classroom practitioner with strong subject knowledge in English • Have proven experience of raising attainment and improving progress • Demonstrate leadership capacity, including coaching and supporting colleagues • Lead with clarity, consistency and high expectations • Have strong curriculum understanding and the ability to drive improvement through planning and assessment This role would suit an established Head of English or an ambitious second-in-department ready to step up, with the skills and confidence to lead a large team and make a measurable impact. Why Join This School • Opportunity to lead a high-profile department in a large secondary setting • Supportive leadership team and clear school systems • Strong focus on literacy and academic progress • High-quality professional development and leadership progression • Collaborative staff culture and a diverse, vibrant school community This is an outstanding opportunity for an English leader who wants to shape curriculum, inspire staff and students, and secure excellent outcomes — while leading a key department in a respected Birmingham secondary school.

Are you an inspirational Head of English looking for an exciting leadership opportunity in a secondary school in Harlow? Do you have the vision, subject expertise and leadership skills to drive excellence in English, inspire both students and staff, and lead a high-performing department? Are you ready to join a supportive and forward-thinking school where your leadership can make a lasting impact on teaching, learning and student achievement? Harlow, Essex September 2026 Secondary School - Head of English Monday - Friday, 8:30am-3:30pm Pay: MPS/UPS + TLR (depending on experience) Applications close: 30/07/26 Interviews: CVs are being reviewed throughout the Summer Term, with interviews and trial days taking place ahead of September. Successful candidates will be onboarded ready for the new academic year. We are working with a well-regarded secondary school in Harlow, rated GOOD by Ofsted, that is seeking an ambitious and dedicated QTS Head of English. The school is committed to delivering an engaging and challenging English curriculum while fostering a culture of high expectations, continuous improvement and outstanding teaching. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced English Teacher or current Head of Department to lead a successful team and help shape the future of English across the school. Job Overview: • This school caters for students aged 11-16. • Lead, manage and develop the English department, promoting high standards of teaching, learning and student achievement. • Plan and deliver engaging, high-quality English lessons across KS3 and KS4 while maintaining an outstanding classroom presence. • Support, coach and mentor members of the English department, encouraging professional development and the sharing of best practice. • Monitor student progress and department performance, using data effectively to drive improvements and raise attainment. • Lead curriculum planning, assessment strategies and departmental development in line with whole-school priorities. • Work collaboratively with senior leaders and contribute to the school's wider strategic development. • Lead intervention programmes, enrichment opportunities, literacy initiatives and extracurricular activities that promote a love of reading, writing and literature. What we're looking for: • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is essential. • A degree in English or a closely related subject. • Proven experience teaching English across KS3 and KS4 within a secondary school. • Previous middle leadership experience, or the ambition and ability to step into a Head of Department role. • A track record of raising attainment and improving outcomes in English. • Excellent leadership, organisational and communication skills. • A passion for English and the ability to inspire, motivate and challenge both students and colleagues. • An Enhanced DBS on the Update Service (or willingness to obtain one). What's next? Click "Apply Now" and, if your application is successful, you will be contacted for an initial telephone call to discuss the role in more detail.

Are you a Head of English Teacher looking to join a fantastic School from September? Our client school is recruiting a Head of English Teacher for a full-time position for a Head of English teacher to start in September in a lovely school in Lambeth. The successful Head of English Teacher will be able to teach to KS3 & KS4 (KS5 for the right candidate). This position is suitable for an experienced English Teacher. · Head of English Teacher · Full time · September start · ‘Outstanding’ School · Lambeth School Information This secondary school, nestled in the London Borough of Lambeth, proudly holds an esteemed "Outstanding" rating from Ofsted. Since its establishment in 2018, the institution has been committed to providing exceptional education, focusing on both academic excellence and personal development. Renowned for its dedication to cultivating a positive and inclusive learning environment, students are encouraged to explore their interests and maximize their potential. Offering a diverse range of subjects and extracurricular activities, the school caters to the varied interests of its student body. Experience and Qualifications - Degree in English (or related field) - PGCE or QTS Salary The salary will be paid to scale for this Head of English Teacher position on MPS/UPS. Application To be considered for this opportunity working as a Head of English Teacher, please forward an updated CV as soon as possible.