Lead Practitioner of EnglishLocation : Blackburn with DarwenSalary : MPS / UPS + TLR dependent on experienceWorking Pattern : Full-TimeContract Type : PermanentClosing Date : 15th December 2024Join Our Team as Lead Practitioner of English!Are you ready to inspire, lead, and make a lasting impact in the world of English education?Are you a passionate and dedicated English Educator with a flair for leadership and a drive for excellence? We are seeking an inspiring Lead Practitioner of English to join our vibrant team and make a real impact on the future of our students.As Lead Practitioner, you will be responsible for driving the English curriculum forward, ensuring the highest standards of teaching and learning across the department. You’ll lead by example, supporting your colleagues with innovative teaching strategies, mentoring, and fostering a collaborative, growth-focused environment.What We’re Looking For : A Proven Leader : A dedicated professional with a track record of outstanding teaching and leadership within English education.Innovative Thinker : Someone with a passion for implementing creative teaching methods that engage and motivate students.Collaborative Spirit : A team player who thrives in a supportive environment and is committed to developing colleagues.Curriculum Expert : Deep knowledge of the English curriculum, assessment, and strategies for driving student progress.Student-Centred Approach : A leader who is passionate about raising aspirations and providing an inclusive, supportive environment for all learners.About usDarwen Vale High School is an 11-16 academy situated in the heart of Darwen. We opened in brand new buildings in September 2012 and over the last two years have grown from year groups of 150 to 240 and anticipate that within the next three years we will be a full school of over 1,200 students.DVHS has been recognised as a rapidly improving school. Our academic standards have improved dramatically. English results have improved to 75% at Grade 4 in 2019 which was above the National average. Mathematics results improved by over 20% in 2019 when students last sat GCSE examinations resulting in 70% gaining Grade 4 or better and 50% gaining Grade 5 or better. Combined English and Mathematics results were 47% for Grade 5 in 2019 and 64% for Grade 4. Our Teacher assessed grades for 2020 and 2021 indicate a continued pattern of improvement with improved outcomes in all curriculum areas.Essential CriteriaEducation : Qualified Teacher StatusRelevant DegreeExperience of teaching in the 11-16 sectorExperience : Prioritise, plan and organiseAct as a role model for pupils and staff by setting high personal and professional standardsMotivate and inspire pupils, staff, parents, governors and the wider communityDeal sensitively with people and resolve conflictsUse appropriate leadership styles in different situations and understand their likely effectsKnowledge and understanding : Has an understanding of current educational issuesStrategies for raising standardsEffective learning and teaching strategiesKnowledge of the Key Stage 3 National Curriculum and the AQA Key Stage 4 Secondary Specifications for Language and LiteratureUse data effectivelyEffective user of ICTShow awareness of whole school issuesThe ability to translate vision into practiceDeveloped partnerships with stakeholdersExcellent subject knowledge and awareness of the latest initiatives in that subjectProven track record of outcomes at GCSESkills and personal characteristics : Enjoy working with, and for, young people, as well as adultsBe an excellent Classroom Practitioner – able to secure pupil engagement in learningHave the imagination, energy and capacity for hard work together with an enthusiasm to take on developments and challengesDemonstrate the ability to identify tasks, and move projects forward to successful completionPossess excellent communication skills – able to engage a variety of audiencesAbility to analyse issues and to think both creatively and strategicallyBe a problem solverKey benefits of working for Aldridge Education : Looking for a fulfilling career with great perks? Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you : Aldridge Benefits Scheme in Partnership with Sodexo – Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.Employee Assistance Programme – Your well-being matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.Flexible Working Opportunities – Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.Free On-Site Parking – No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered.Good local transport links – Local train and bus links.Staff Recognition – Aldridge Appreciates.Generous Annual Leave – Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!Pension Schemes – Secure your future with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.     Refer a Friend Scheme – Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!How to applyOn clicking apply you will be redirected to our careers website to complete your application