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Head of English

  • Secondary
  • Birmingham
  • English
  • £43000 - £57000 per annum
  • 22 June 2026
  • J132998-4

Job Description

  • Secondary Teacher
  • Birmingham
  • July 20, 2026

First For Education

First for Education is recruiting on behalf of a thriving secondary school for an ambitious and inspirational Head of English to lead a successful English department. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced English teacher or current middle leader looking to make a significant impact on teaching, learning, and student achievement.

This role will be starting for the new academic year in Septemer for a thriving school in Birmingham (B42 Area)

The RoleAs Head of English, you will provide strategic leadership for the department, ensuring high standards of teaching and learning across Key Stages 3 and 4 (and Key Stage 5 where applicable). You will drive curriculum development, raise attainment, and foster a love of literature and language throughout the school.

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead and manage the English department to achieve outstanding outcomes.
  • Develop and implement an engaging, ambitious, and inclusive English curriculum.
  • Monitor student progress and implement strategies to raise attainment.
  • Support, coach, and develop teaching staff within the department.
  • Ensure high-quality teaching, learning, and assessment practices.
  • Analyse performance data to inform departmental improvement plans.
  • Promote literacy across the wider school community.
  • Manage departmental resources and budgets effectively.
  • Contribute to whole-school improvement initiatives and leadership priorities.
  • Inspire students to develop confidence, creativity, and a passion for English.

The Ideal CandidateWe are looking for someone who:

  • Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
  • Has a proven track record of successful English teaching and strong student outcomes.
  • Has leadership experience within an English department or is ready to step into a leadership role.
  • Demonstrates excellent subject knowledge and curriculum expertise.
  • Is passionate about raising standards and improving life chances for young people.
  • Has strong communication, organisational, and leadership skills.
  • Can motivate and inspire both students and colleagues.

What’s on Offer?

  • A supportive and ambitious school environment.
  • Excellent CPD and leadership development opportunities.
  • Collaborative and dedicated staff team.
  • Access to high-quality teaching resources.
  • The opportunity to shape the future direction of English within the school.

Interested?

f you are interested in applying for this position, please apply today or contact Callum Heathcote for further information:
📞  0121 285 4840 📞  0121 285 4840
📧 callum.heathcote@firstforeducation.co.uk

Safeguarding & ComplianceFirst for Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and all staff are expected to share this commitment. Recruitment follows current Safer Recruitment guidance, including KCSIE and Working Together to Safeguard Children (2023).
All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including references, qualification verification, and an enhanced DBS check. Teaching applicants must hold QTS or an equivalent recognised teaching qualification.
We are committed to creating an inclusive recruitment process and workplace, welcoming applications from individuals of all backgrounds and experiences. Reasonable adjustments are available throughout the recruitment process where required.
First for Education is part of Operam Education Group, which includes Provide Education, Teachers UK, Provision Recruitment, The Education Specialists, Horizon Teachers, and Key Stage Teacher Supply.

Operam Education Group includes Provide Education | Teachers UK | Provision Recruitment | The Education Specialists | First for Education | Horizon Teachers | Key Stage Teacher Supply
 
We’re proud to be an inclusive employer, welcoming applicants from all backgrounds and committed to creating accessible opportunities across education.
 
As part of our registration process, you’ll need an enhanced DBS check and we’ll need to see and copy your original qualifications before any placement. Teaching roles require Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.

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