Head Of Drama - Permanent - September 2026

Aspire People; Greater London; On-site; GBP 150,000 - 200,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education recruitment agency is looking for a Head of Drama to lead the department at a secondary school in Redbridge. The role involves developing an engaging Drama curriculum, delivering high-quality lessons, and promoting the performing arts across the school. Candidates should have QTS and experience in teaching Drama, with a passion for inspiring students. The position offers competitive salary and opportunities for professional growth in a supportive school environment.

Benefits

Strong support for professional development

Inclusive school community

Competitive salary with Outer London weighting

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is mandatory.
• Experience teaching Drama at secondary level is essential.
• Candidates should have a passion for performing arts.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Drama curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4.
• Deliver inspiring Drama lessons that engage students.
• Oversee extra-curricular activities including performances.

Skills

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Experience teaching Drama at secondary level

Ability to deliver engaging lessons

Passion for performing arts

Job description

Head of Drama – Permanent – Redbridge – September 2026

Location: Redbridge, Outer London

Salary: MPS-UPS (Outer London weighting)

Contract: Full‑time, Permanent

Start Date: September 2026

An Exciting Leadership Opportunity in Performing Arts

Are you a passionate and creative Drama specialist ready to lead and inspire the next generation of performers?

Aspire People are delighted to be partnering with a highly regarded secondary school in Redbridge to recruit an outstanding Head of Drama. This is a superb opportunity for either an experienced subject leader or an exceptional Drama teacher looking to progress into leadership within a supportive and forward‑thinking school.

Head of Drama – The Role

As Head of Drama, you will take responsibility for the strategic leadership and continued development of the Drama department. You will shape an engaging and ambitious curriculum, foster a strong creative culture, and ensure students thrive both academically and artistically.

You will play a key role in promoting the performing arts across the school, offering students rich curricular and extra‑curricular experiences that build confidence, creativity and a love of theatre.

Head of Drama – Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Drama curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4 (and Key Stage 5 where applicable)
• Deliver high‑quality, inspiring Drama lessons that engage and challenge students of all abilities
• Provide effective leadership, support and guidance to colleagues within the department
• Plan and oversee a vibrant programme of extra‑curricular activities, including productions, performances, clubs and showcases
• Maintain high standards of teaching, learning and student achievement within the department

For candidates applying as a Drama Teacher, this role offers a clear and supported pathway into departmental leadership.

Head of Drama – The Ideal Candidate

We are seeking a committed, imaginative and enthusiastic Drama practitioner who can bring vision, creativity and leadership to the department.

Essential Criteria

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• Experience teaching Drama at secondary level
• A genuine passion for the performing arts and the ability to inspire students
• A proven ability to deliver engaging, creative and well‑structured lessons

Desirable

• Experience leading or supporting Drama enrichment activities or productions
• Leadership potential or experience, with the ability to motivate and mentor colleagues
• A strong commitment to raising standards and nurturing student talent

Head of Drama – Why Join This School

• A welcoming and inclusive school community where creativity is valued
• Strong support for professional development and career progression
• A school with a reputation for both academic success and artistic excellence
• Competitive MPS-UPS salary with Outer London weighting
• Excellent transport links and a convenient Redbridge location

Head of Drama – How to Apply

If you are an inspiring Drama teacher ready to lead a department, or an ambitious practitioner seeking your next step, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV outlining your suitability for the role.

For further details, contact Natalie at Aspire People today.

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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.