Head of Computer Science – Secondary Academy in Harrogate (January Start)

A high-achieving secondary academy in Harrogate, North Yorkshire, is seeking an innovative Head of Computer Science to lead its digital technologies department on a full-time, permanent basis starting in January.

Job Overview

Computer Science is an expanding discipline within this academy’s STEM curriculum. The successful candidate will take strategic leadership over Key Stage 3 Computing, Key Stage 4 (GCSE Computer Science), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level Computer Science / BTEC Digital Information Technology), managing syllabus progression, programming pedagogy, and IT laboratory spaces.

Working alongside senior leadership, you will coach non-specialists, direct robotics and cybersecurity enrichment clubs, and oversee Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) coding project moderation. This is a full-time, permanent contract.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction, curriculum design, and operational management for the Computer Science faculty

• Teach practical coding (Python/Java) and theoretical computer architecture lessons across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5

• Line-manage department teachers, conducting peer observations, code reviews, and subject-specific CPD

• Oversee NEA programming project moderation and manage external exam board submissions

• Track student assessment data, implement targeted intervention groups, and organize regional hackathons

• Supervise computer suites, software licensing, development IDE environments, and hardware inventories

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: January

• Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract

• Location: Harrogate, North Yorkshire

• Salary / Pay Rate: TLR1 or Leadership Scale equivalent

• Key Curriculum: OCR / AQA Computer Science

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS, QTLS) or recognized UK credentials with an honors degree in Computer Science or Software Engineering

• High proficiency in text-based programming (Python, Java, C#) and computer systems architecture

• Proven track record of strong academic outcomes at GCSE and A-Level alongside leadership experience

• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this full-time, permanent Head of Computer Science position in Harrogate for a January start.