Head of English (second in charge)

Head of English & Second in Charge of English – Permanent Roles (September Start)
Location: Hertfordshire
Salary: Fringe Pay Scale (dependent on experience)
Contract Type: Permanent
Start Date: September

Overview

An ambitious and forward-thinking secondary school in Hertfordshire is seeking to appoint an inspiring Head of English and a talented Second in Charge of English to join its successful English department from September on a permanent basis.

This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic Head of English to lead a thriving department committed to high standards, strong outcomes, and a love of literature and language. Alongside this, the Second in Charge of English will play a key role in supporting leadership, driving teaching and learning, and contributing to continued departmental success.

Head of English – Role Overview

As Head of English, you will lead the strategic direction of the English department, ensuring consistently high-quality teaching and learning across Key Stages. The Head of English will be responsible for raising attainment, developing curriculum excellence, and inspiring both staff and students.

Key responsibilities for the Head of English include:

• Leading and managing the English department with vision and clarity
• Driving outstanding teaching, learning, and student progress
• Developing an engaging and ambitious English curriculum
• Supporting and coaching teachers within the department
• Monitoring performance data and implementing effective interventions
• Fostering a culture of reading, writing, and academic excellence
• Working closely with senior leadership to support whole-school priorities

Second in Charge of English – Role Overview

The Second in Charge of English will support the Head of English in delivering outstanding outcomes and maintaining high standards across the department. This is a key leadership role for an experienced teacher looking to progress within English leadership.

Responsibilities include:

• Supporting the Head of English in departmental leadership
• Contributing to curriculum planning and development
• Leading on specific initiatives within the English department
• Supporting teaching quality and student progress
• Acting as a role model for outstanding classroom practice
• Assisting with monitoring and assessment processes

Candidate Requirements

For this role, we are looking for a passionate and committed English specialist who can demonstrate:

• Strong subject knowledge in English Language and Literature
• Proven teaching experience with excellent outcomes
• Leadership experience (for Head of English) or readiness to step into leadership (for Second in Charge)
• A commitment to high standards and student achievement
• Excellent communication and teamwork skills
• A genuine enthusiasm for English and inspiring young learners

What’s on Offer

• Permanent role starting September
• Fringe salary scale
• Supportive and collaborative leadership team
• Opportunities for career progression and leadership development
• Well-resourced English department
• Positive school culture with high expectations
• Engaged and motivated students

Application

If you are an ambitious Head of English ready to lead a high-performing department—or an aspiring leader ready to take on a Second in Charge of English role—this is an excellent opportunity to progress your career.

Application

If you are an experienced Head of English or an aspiring inclusion leader ready for a rewarding maternity cover role, we encourage you to apply.

Please send your CV to Clarus Education to be considered for this Head of English opportunity. Shortlisted candidates will be contacted within 48 hours.

To apply for this Head of English role, send your detailed CV to Clarus Education now to be considered. We will be contacting those shortlisted within 2 working days of an application.

Please see our website page headed ‘About’ and scroll to the bottom to see our ‘Privacy Notice’ for an explanation about how we use information we collect about you.

We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. You will have a safeguarding responsibility if appointed.

The successful candidate will be subject to enhanced clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service and employment will be subject to references.

This post is not exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.

Head of English | Full time | Permanent | Hertfordshire | September Start

#INDTALND22