Head of English – Independent Senior School –Staffordshire

A prestigious co-educational independent senior school in Staffordshire is seeking an ambitious and visionary Head of English to lead its highly successful department. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced teacher and leader to shape the future direction of English within a school known for academic excellence, strong pastoral care and a rich co-curricular culture. English sits at the heart of the school’s academic identity. GCSE and A-Level outcomes are consistently outstanding, with a significant proportion of pupils progressing to competitive university courses in English, Law, History and related disciplines. The Role As Head of English, you will provide strategic and academic leadership across Key Stages 3–5. You will oversee curriculum development, mentor staff and ensure that teaching across the department reflects both intellectual depth and pedagogical excellence. Key responsibilities include: • Leading and managing the English department, setting clear academic vision and standards • Teaching English Literature and Language across GCSE and A-Level • Driving innovation in curriculum design while maintaining academic rigour • Supporting Oxbridge and Russell Group university preparation • Managing departmental performance, development planning and enrichment You will have the opportunity to shape reading lists, introduce new texts and embed a culture of scholarly discussion across all year groups. The Department The English department is well-established, collaborative and academically strong. Teachers benefit from: • Small class sizes allowing detailed feedback and high-level discussion • Dedicated English classrooms and seminar spaces • A substantial library with strong literary resources • Regular theatre visits, author events and literary competitions • A culture of professional trust and academic autonomy The department plays a leading role in public speaking competitions, creative writing initiatives and cross-curricular Humanities projects. The School Set within impressive grounds that combine historic buildings with modern learning spaces, the school provides a balanced education that values scholarship, character and creativity. Pupils are motivated, articulate and respectful. Behaviour is exemplary, and relationships between staff and students are professional and warm. The pastoral system is structured and supportive, ensuring students are well-guided academically and personally. Leadership across the school is forward-thinking yet measured, with genuine investment in staff development and wellbeing. Who We’re Looking For The successful candidate will: • Hold QTS (or equivalent) and a strong academic background in English • Have significant experience teaching GCSE and A-Level English • Demonstrate proven leadership or middle leadership experience • Be academically ambitious and able to stretch high-achieving pupils • Inspire colleagues and foster a collaborative departmental culture Independent school experience is advantageous but not essential. What’s On Offer • Competitive leadership salary within the independent sector • Small, engaged classes with strong academic focus • High levels of professional autonomy • Generous CPD and leadership development opportunities • Free on-site parking and term-time meals This is an outstanding leadership opportunity for an experienced English specialist ready to guide a high-performing department within a respected Staffordshire independent school.