Head of English – Independent School – Cheshire

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 Cheshire . 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 oracy across the school. The school offers a calm, purposeful learning environment with excellent behaviour, strong pastoral care and a culture that values scholarship 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 creativity, and where 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, analytical writing, vocabulary and oracy Coach and support colleagues through shared planning, modelling and professional dialogue Use assessment and performance information intelligently to identify priorities and secure progress Strengthen the department’s enrichment offer, including reading culture, theatre, debating and writing initiatives Contribute to whole-school literacy and academic strategy where appropriate You will also teach English across the school, modelling excellent practice and maintaining a strong classroom presence. The Department English is a core strength within the school and plays a central role in shaping academic ambition and wider cultural life. The department is collaborative and academically focused, with a shared commitment to high standards, strong outcomes and rich, engaging teaching. The department values: Knowledge-rich, well-sequenced teaching that builds deep understanding over time High-quality modelling and explicit instruction in analytical and creative writing A strong culture of reading, including wider reading beyond the curriculum Confident discussion and debate, developing articulate and thoughtful pupils Consistent assessment and feedback approaches that support improvement and exam confidence 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 Cheshire 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 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: Cheshire Start Date: ASAP / next term (or by agreement) Contract: Full-time, permanent (or as agreed) Salary: Highly competitive, dependent on experience What the School is Looking For The successful candidate will: Hold QTS or an equivalent teaching qualification Have strong subject knowledge in English 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 cultural opportunities Applications are welcomed from both established Heads of English and ambitious second-in-department candidates ready to step into full 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, reading and enrichment Supportive leadership and a professional staff culture Opportunities 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 language and literature, and lead a thriving department in a highly regarded Cheshire independent school.