Head of Department - HistoryEDV/2025/SFGC/88415

Coast and Vale Learning Trust; Harlow; On-site; GBP 30,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

An established educational institution is seeking a passionate Head of History to lead its dynamic History department. This role offers the chance to inspire students and shape the curriculum, ensuring high standards of teaching and learning. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership and foster a culture of academic excellence, promoting engagement and resilience among students. With a commitment to professional development and inclusion, this position is ideal for a dedicated educator eager to make a significant impact in a supportive and nurturing environment.

Benefits

Generous employer pension contribution

Private healthcare benefits

Cycle to Work scheme

Gym membership salary sacrifice

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP)

Onsite parking

Qualifications

• Ambitious and dedicated leader with a passion for History and education.
• Experience in managing and developing teaching staff.

Responsibilities

• Lead the History department and ensure high-quality teaching.
• Develop an engaging curriculum that meets national expectations.
• Monitor student progress and implement targeted interventions.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum Development

Teaching Strategies

Data Analysis

Staff Development

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Degree in History or related field

Job description

Sir Frederick Gibberd College (SFG) is seeking to appoint an ambitious, dedicated, and enthusiastic Head of History to lead our History department. This is an excellent opportunity for a passionate subject specialist to shape the development of the department, inspire students, and promote a love of History across all key stages.

As Head of History, you will provide strategic leadership and direction, ensure high-quality teaching and learning, and lead a team of subject specialists to deliver outstanding outcomes for all students. You will also play a key role in driving whole-school improvement and maintaining a positive, inclusive school culture.

SFG is a growing and ambitious secondary school situated in Harlow, Essex, and part of the BMAT Education Trust. We are committed to achieving the highest standards of teaching and learning and ensuring that every child is supported to reach their full potential in a safe and nurturing environment.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership and Management

Provide dynamic and strategic leadership for the History department in line with the school’s values and vision.

Develop and implement a rigorous and engaging curriculum that reflects national expectations and enriches students’ cultural understanding.

Line manage the History team, supporting staff to deliver consistently high-quality lessons.

Monitor and evaluate teaching, learning, assessment, and behaviour within the department, identifying areas for development and leading on improvement.

Manage department resources effectively and be responsible for the departmental budget.

Lead on targeted intervention strategies to support student progress, particularly for disadvantaged students and those with SEND or EAL.

Champion a culture of high expectations, inclusion, and academic excellence.

Teaching and Learning

Deliver outstanding History lessons that motivate and challenge students.

Ensure consistency of excellent teaching practice across the department.

Model evidence-based and innovative teaching strategies.

Promote student engagement, resilience, and a passion for History.

Ensure teaching is differentiated and scaffolded to meet the needs of all learners.

Support the development of literacy and critical thinking within History.

Data and Reporting

Use a range of data sources to track and monitor student progress, identifying gaps and planning timely interventions.

Set aspirational targets and regularly assess performance against them.

Report on departmental performance to SLT, governors, parents, and external stakeholders as required.

Staff Development

Support the professional development of departmental staff through mentoring and tailored CPD.

Conduct regular performance appraisals and provide constructive feedback.

Support the development of Early Career Teachers (ECTs) and trainee teachers.

Promote best practices for teaching disadvantaged learners, including those with SEND and EAL.

About the Trust
BMAT is a thriving community of schools, committed to providing an outstanding education for every student attending one of our schools. We create environments where individuals matter, confidence flourishes, and every child can achieve exceptional outcomes. We currently oversee seven secondary academies and five primary academies, primarily located in Harlow, with additional sites in Newham and Stansted.

The Trust’s vision is clear - to work together to smash through the barriers that prevent children from becoming confident, high-achieving, and independent individuals.

Employee Benefits Available:

Generous employer pension contribution

Private healthcare benefits, including 24/7 Doctorline access

Cycle to Work scheme

Electronic and home technology salary sacrifice scheme

Gym membership salary sacrifice

Lifestyle and discount savings

Workplace nursery salary sacrifice scheme via Yellownest

Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for wellbeing support

Onsite parking

Sir Frederick Gibberd College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to share this commitment. An Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check and satisfactory references are required for all posts.