Head Of Drama - Permanent - January 2026

Aspire People; England; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency is seeking a Head of Drama for a secondary school in Redbridge. The ideal candidate will lead the Drama department, driving curriculum development and fostering a passion for the performing arts among students. This is a permanent full-time position offering competitive MPS-UPS salary and opportunities for professional growth.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive school culture

Competitive salary with Outer London weighting

Qualifications

• Strong experience teaching Drama at secondary level.
• Ability to inspire students of all abilities.
• Track record of delivering engaging lessons.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Drama curriculum across KS3-KS4.
• Create and deliver innovative lessons.
• Plan and oversee extracurricular drama activities.

Skills

Leadership

Creative lesson planning

Passion for performing arts

Education

QTS

Job description

Head of Drama - Permanent

Location: Redbridge, Outer London
Salary: MPS-UPS (Outer London)
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Start Date: January 2026 (or earlier for the right candidate)

Are you an ambitious, visionary Drama specialist ready to lead a thriving department?

Aspire People are proud to be working with an exceptional secondary school in Redbridge as they seek an inspiring Head of Drama to shape the future of their performing arts provision.

This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced leader-or an outstanding Drama Teacher ready for progression-to take ownership of a vibrant and creative department.

Head of Drama - The Role

As Head of Drama, you will play a pivotal role in driving the strategic vision, culture, and success of the Drama department. Your leadership will influence curriculum design, performance opportunities, and the overall development of a rich, engaging arts environment.

Head of Drama - Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Drama curriculum across KS3-KS4 (and KS5 where applicable).
• Create and deliver innovative, high-quality lessons that ignite students' passion for theatre and performance.
• Provide leadership, guidance, and support to members of the Drama team.
• Plan and oversee an exciting programme of extra-curricular activities, including school productions, showcases, and drama clubs.
• Maintain high standards of teaching, learning, and student achievement within the department.

For candidates joining as a Drama Teacher, this role offers a clear pathway to departmental leadership within a supportive and forward-thinking environment.

Head of Drama - About You

We are looking for a committed and creative Drama specialist who can bring energy, leadership, and vision to the department.

Head of Drama - Essential

• QTS and strong experience teaching Drama at secondary level.
• A deep passion for performing arts and the ability to inspire students of all abilities.
• A track record of delivering engaging, imaginative lessons.

Desirable for Head of Drama applicants

• Experience leading or coordinating drama enrichment activities.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to motivate and mentor colleagues.
• A commitment to raising standards and nurturing emerging talent.

Head of Drama - Why This School

• A warm, inclusive school culture where creativity is valued and celebrated.
• Excellent opportunities for continued professional development and career advancement.
• A school with a strong reputation for academic achievement and artistic excellence.
• Competitive MPS-UPS salary with Outer London weighting.
• Great Redbridge location with convenient transport links to Central London.

Head of Drama - How to Apply

If you are an inspiring Drama practitioner ready to lead a department-or an exceptional teacher looking to take the next step-we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a covering letter explaining your suitability for the role.

For further information, contact Natalie @ Aspire People today.

#aspirepeoplelondon

Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.