Assistant Head Of Department Philosophy, Theology & Ethics (Pte)

Notre Dame Catholic Sixth Form College; Leeds; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Leeds seeks an Assistant Head of Philosophy, Theology & Ethics to lead and inspire a team of teachers. The role entails managing the PTE department, delivering high-quality teaching programs, and monitoring student performance. A strong track record in teaching and leadership, alongside communication and organisational skills, is essential. The institution offers excellent benefits including professional development opportunities, parking, discounts, and supportive working conditions.

Benefits

Full on-site car parking

Ethical Leadership in Education framework

Enhanced sick pay and leave

Employee Assistance Programme

Qualifications

• Strong track record of outstanding teaching and leadership in philosophy, theology or ethics.
• Experience of leading multidisciplinary teams and contributing to curriculum development.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and health & safety.

Responsibilities

• Lead, manage and develop the PTE department and its staff.
• Design, deliver and assess PTE teaching programmes.
• Analyse student data to monitor standards and drive improvement.

Skills

Outstanding teaching

Leadership

Excellent communication

Organisational skills

Interpersonal skills

Education

Practicing Catholic status

Knowledge of CES guidance

Job description

Position

Assistant Head of Philosophy, Theology & Ethics (PTE) – a senior leadership role to inspire and lead a team of experienced teachers at a Catholic sixth‑form college.

Overview

Notre Dame Catholic Sixth‑Form College offers a “World Class Catholic Education”. The PTE programme explores faith, ethics and philosophy for students aged 16‑19, fostering spiritual growth, critical thinking and social responsibility. All students work towards the Stella Maris Leadership Award and engage in community outreach such as the annual pilgrimage to Lourdes.

Key Responsibilities

• Live out and promote the College’s mission, ethos and Catholic identity.
• Lead, manage and develop the PTE department and its staff.
• Co‑operate with the Head of PTE to set departmental schemes of work and curriculum, and to update them following the latest CES guidance.
• Design, deliver and assess PTE teaching programmes, ensuring high quality learning and assessment.
• Support the Stella Maris Leadership Award – including the annual awards event and the Self‑Assessment Review.
• Assist in College‑wide activities: CSI inspections, Catholic life, core RE, collective worship and marketing‑and‑admissions processes.
• Analyse student data (attendance, feedback, attainment) to monitor standards and drive improvement.
• Champion student wellbeing, act as a ‘champion of the student’ and support retention targets.
• Lead on professional development of staff and promote a positive department culture.
• Actively liaise with senior leadership team, student officers, lay chaplain, marketing and external partners.
• Manage administrative tasks related to the promotion, delivery and assessment of PTE programmes.
• Take responsibility for a full teaching commitment of PTE.

Qualifications & Experience

• Practicing Catholic, inspirational, ambitious and student‑centred.
• Strong track record of outstanding teaching and leadership in philosophy, theology or ethics.
• Experience of leading multidisciplinary teams and contributing to curriculum development.
• Knowledge of CES guidance and experience with the Stella Maris Leadership Award is desirable.
• Commitment to safeguarding, equality, diversity and health & safety.
• Excellent communication, organisational and interpersonal skills.

What We Offer

• Full on‑site car parking and a cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Location in Leeds University District – close to city centre and public transport.
• Ethical Leadership in Education framework and continuous professional development.
• Outstanding Ofsted rating (March 2022 & September 2024); oversubscribed college.
• West Yorkshire Travel Plan Network – 12 % discount on Annual Metro cards.
• On‑site canteen, Starbucks café and Feel‑good lunches every half‑term.
• Enhanced sick pay, maternity, paternity and adaptation leave beyond statutory levels.
• Flu jab reimbursement and various wellbeing programmes (yoga, knitting, choir, mental‑health support).
• Employee Assistance Programme with 24 h confidential support.
• Discounts on retail, fitness, wellbeing and many other categories (Blue Light, UniDays, etc.).
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme and West Yorkshire Pensions for support staff.
• Access to the college chapel and regular services, end‑of‑year BBQ, Staff Retreat Day and other celebrations.

Other Information

The College is committed to safeguarding and the welfare of young people and welcomes applications from all segments of the community. This role requires an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check. Applications will close at 9 am on 22 January 2026. Interviews will take place in the week beginning 26 January 2026.