Head of Drama Independent School in Reading

Marchant Recruitment; Wokingham; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A distinguished co-educational independent school in Reading, Berkshire is seeking a Head of Drama to lead its vibrant Performing Arts faculty. This role offers the opportunity to shape the creative vision of a nationally recognized Drama department and work with talented students. The ideal candidate will have a degree in Drama, strong leadership skills, and a commitment to fostering student development. This position comes with exceptional professional development and a supportive leadership team.

Benefits

Exceptional professional development

Outstanding facilities

Strong sense of community

Qualifications

• Proven track record of outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
• Visionary approach to curriculum development.
• Commitment to the holistic development of students.

Responsibilities

• Provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction for the Drama department.
• Design, deliver, and evaluate an ambitious curriculum.
• Direct and produce a range of school performances.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Curriculum development

Performance direction

Education

Degree in Drama or related discipline

Recognized teaching qualification (QTS or equivalent)

Job description

Location: Reading Berkshire

Start Date: January 2026

Nature: Full-Time Permanent

Salary: Independent PayScale TLR

Are you an inspiring Drama specialist ready to lead an outstanding department in one of the countrys most respected independent schools

Our client a distinguished co-educational independent school with an exceptional reputation for academic and creative excellence is seeking a Head of Drama to join their vibrant Performing Arts faculty. This rare opportunity offers the chance to shape the creative vision of a nationally recognised Drama department while working with talented motivated students and a supportive leadership team.

The School

Staff consistently describe the school as having a strong sense of community and pride with an outstanding focus on well-being and professional development. Parents praise its individualised care and commitment to excellence while students benefit from a broad and enriching PSMSC (Personal Social Moral Spiritual and Cultural) education that fosters character and confidence.

Your Role as Head of Drama

• Provide inspirational leadership and strategic direction for the Drama department.
• Design deliver and evaluate an ambitious curriculum from KS3 to KS5 ensuring creativity and challenge at every stage.
• Direct and produce a range of school performances and theatre events showcasing student talent and enriching the cultural life of the school.
• Support and mentor teaching staff within the department fostering collaboration and professional growth.
• Work closely with senior leaders to maintain the departments position as one of national excellence.

Person Specification

• A passionate and experienced Drama educator with a proven track record of outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
• Degree in Drama (or related discipline) and a recognised teaching qualification (QTS or equivalent).
• Strong leadership communication and organisational skills.
• Visionary approach to curriculum development and a flair for performance direction.
• Commitment to the holistic development of students within an independent school ethos.
• Legal right to work in the UK.

Why Join This School

• Opportunity to lead a department ranked among the top in the country.
• Exceptional professional development and leadership support.
• A culture of creativity collaboration and academic excellence.
• Outstanding facilities and performance spaces.
• A strong sense of community wellbeing and shared purpose.

Application Process

If you are ready to take the next step in your teaching career and lead a department that celebrates artistic excellence and innovation we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a covering letter as soon as possible to be considered for this Head of Drama opportunity.