Head of English – Independent School – Cambridge

An exceptional opportunity has arisen for an inspiring and ambitious Head of English to lead a successful English department at a highly regarded independent school in Cambridge . This is a rare leadership role for an outstanding English specialist who combines excellent classroom practice with the vision and drive to shape curriculum, coach colleagues and build a thriving culture of reading, writing and scholarly discussion across the school. The school offers a calm, purposeful learning environment with excellent behaviour, strong pastoral care and a culture that values academic excellence and enrichment. With smaller class sizes, excellent resources and highly motivated pupils, this is an outstanding opportunity to lead English in a setting where teachers can teach with depth and pupils genuinely enjoy learning. About the Role As Head of English , you will provide strategic and day-to-day leadership for the department, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching and strong outcomes across KS3–KS5 . You will: Lead curriculum design and sequencing across KS3, GCSE and A-Level Drive high expectations in reading, writing, oracy and exam literacy Coach and support colleagues through shared planning, modelling and professional dialogue Use assessment intelligently to identify priorities, secure progress and stretch high attainers Develop a strong reading culture and enrichment offer (book clubs, debates, theatre visits, competitions) Contribute to whole-school academic strategy where appropriate You will also teach English across the school, modelling excellent practice and maintaining a strong classroom presence. The English Department English is central to the school’s academic identity and wider culture. The department offers a rich literary experience alongside exceptional examination preparation, with a strong emphasis on reading, critical writing and articulate spoken expression. The department values: Knowledge-rich teaching of literature and language High standards in analytical writing and academic argument Purposeful classroom discussion and confident oracy Consistent assessment and feedback to support excellent outcomes Enrichment that makes English feel vibrant, relevant and lived The new Head of English will have the opportunity to build on existing strengths, refine curriculum plans and further develop enrichment and stretch pathways for high-attaining pupils. About the School This Cambridge independent school is known for excellent academic standards and a supportive pastoral culture. Pupils are respectful, motivated and engaged, and staff benefit from a professional environment where expertise is valued and colleagues work closely together. The school places strong emphasis on: Calm, purposeful classrooms and excellent behaviour Individualised support through smaller teaching groups A broad co-curricular programme that enriches pupil experience Strong relationships, high expectations and a culture of aspiration and achievement This is an environment that suits leaders who enjoy scholarship, want to develop colleagues, and are excited by the opportunity to lead a high-performing team. Key Information Location: Cambridge Start Date: ASAP / next term (or by agreement) Contract: Full-time, permanent Salary: Highly competitive, dependent on experience What the School is Looking For The successful candidate will: Hold a degree in English (or closely related discipline) Hold QTS (or an equivalent recognised teaching qualification) Demonstrate successful experience teaching English across KS3–KS5 Have leadership experience (Head of Department, Second in Department, KS Lead, or ready to step up) Show strong curriculum knowledge and the ability to drive improvement through planning and assessment Be an excellent classroom practitioner with high expectations and strong behaviour management Contribute positively to wider school life, including enrichment and reading culture Applications are welcomed from established Heads of English and ambitious candidates ready to step into leadership in a supportive independent setting. Why Join This School Lead a high-profile department in a calm, high-achieving environment Teach motivated pupils in smaller classes with excellent resources Strong culture of scholarship, enrichment and co-curricular life Supportive leadership and a professional staff culture Opportunity to shape curriculum and make a lasting impact This is a fantastic opportunity for an English leader who wants to drive excellence, inspire a love of reading and lead a thriving department in a highly regarded Cambridge independent school.