Department Leader

The Methodist Church in Britain; England; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 65,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

VivUp employee benefit system

Cycle to Work scheme

Teacher pensions

Opportunities for professional growth

Flexible working considered

Job summary

Highfield Littleport Academy, a special school within the Active Learning Trust, seeks a Department Leader to guide a department or learning pathway, shaping curriculum, teaching and learning, and line-manage staff. You will also teach a class with pupils who have complex needs.

Experience in SEN is essential. The start date is January 2027, and visa sponsorship is not available. The role offers professional growth within the Active Learning Trust and flexible working options where suitable.

Qualifications

• Experienced practitioner with leadership responsibilities.
• Previous SEN experience is essential.

Responsibilities

• Provide professional leadership of a department or learning pathway, aligned to the academy improvement plan
• Lead curriculum development, teaching and learning, with high expectations for all pupils
• Line manage and support staff, including contribution to CPD and performance development
• Teach effectively within the special school context, promoting strong progress and wellbeing
• Contribute actively to senior leadership, behaviour systems, safeguarding and partnership with families
• Strengthen provision and work with colleagues and the wider leadership team
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the academy community

Skills

Department leadership

SEN experience

Curriculum development

Staff management

Job description

Department Leader post at Highfield Littleport Academy, a special school within the Active Learning Trust, one of two permanent, full-time roles created by the academy's growth. The post leads a department or learning pathway, shaping curriculum, teaching and learning, and the line management of staff. Post-holders also teach and lead a class, working with pupils who have complex needs. Previous SEN experience is essential, visa sponsorship is not available, and the start date is January 2027.

What the job involves

• Provide professional leadership of a department or learning pathway, aligned to the academy improvement plan
• Lead curriculum development, teaching and learning, with high expectations for all pupils
• Line manage and support staff, including contribution to CPD and performance development
• Teach effectively within the special school context, promoting strong progress and wellbeing
• Contribute actively to senior leadership, behaviour systems, safeguarding and partnership with families
• Strengthen provision and work with colleagues and the wider leadership team
• Contribute to the ongoing development of the academy community

What’s required

Experience

• Experienced practitioner
• Previous SEN experience

What’s offered

• VivUp employee benefit system
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Teacher pensions
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development within the Active Learning Trust
• Flexible working considered for suitable roles