Head of Drama

Wayman Education; England; On-site; GBP 28,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading school in Watford is seeking a Head of Drama to oversee the Drama Department, ensuring high standards in teaching and learning while promoting the subject's significance in the school community. This role offers a dynamic environment for passionate educators to lead, innovate, and inspire students in the performing arts.

Benefits

Excellent CPD and leadership development opportunities

Purpose-built performance facilities

Collaborative culture

Strong commitment to staff well-being

Qualifications

• Proven track record of teaching Drama across KS3, KS4, KS5 desirable.
• Leadership experience or clear potential to lead and manage a department.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of the Drama Department.
• Teach Drama across KS3 KS5, ensuring high levels of student engagement and achievement.
• Lead and support school productions and enrichment activities.

Skills

Organisational skills

Communication

Classroom management

Passion for performing arts

Education

Degree in Drama or related subject

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

Location: Watford, Hertfordshire
School Type: Selective Grammar School
Start Date: September 2025
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR (Outer London/Fringe)

The School

This high-achieving, selective grammar school in Watford has a well-earned reputation for academic excellence, rich cultural provision, and exceptional pastoral care. Rated Good by Ofsted, the school provides a stimulating and supportive environment for both staff and students. The Arts, particularly Drama, are integral to school life, and productions and performances are celebrated across the community.

The Role

We are seeking a passionate, creative, and experienced Head of Drama to lead our successful and well-established Drama Department. The successful candidate will oversee Drama across Key Stages 3 to 5, promote high standards of teaching and learning, and contribute fully to the cultural life of the school. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Drama Teacher ready to step into leadership or an existing Head of Drama seeking a new challenge.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and management of the Drama Department
  
• Teach Drama across KS3 KS5, ensuring high levels of student engagement and achievement
  
• Lead, direct, and support school productions, clubs, and enrichment activities
  
• Develop an engaging, inclusive curriculum that nurtures creativity and performance skills
  
• Monitor and assess student progress, implement intervention strategies, and support academic success
  
• Promote Drama across the school and in the wider community
  
• Line manage and mentor staff within the department, fostering professional growth and collaboration
  
• Contribute to the wider pastoral and co-curricular life of the school
  

Person Specification

Essential:

• A degree in Drama or a related subject
  
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
  
• Proven track record of teaching Drama across KS3 KS4; KS5 desirable
  
• Leadership experience or clear potential to lead and manage a department
  
• Strong organisational, communication and classroom management skills
  
• A passion for the performing arts and a commitment to inclusive, high-quality education
  

Desirable:

• Experience in a selective or academically high-achieving school
  
• Directing or producing school plays or major performances
  
• Strong knowledge of exam board specifications and curriculum planning
  

Why Join Us?

• Motivated, engaged students who enjoy the arts
  
• A dynamic, supportive department and leadership team
  
• Purpose-built performance facilities and rehearsal spaces
  
• Excellent CPD and leadership development opportunities
  
• A collaborative culture that values creativity and innovation
  
• A strong commitment to staff well-being and professional fulfillment
  

Application Process

To apply, please send your CV and a brief covering letter outlining your suitability for the role. Early applications are encouraged, as the school may interview prior to the closing date.

We look forward to hearing from you!