Head of English

Independent Schools Association (ISA); Greater London; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

Dulwich Prep & Senior seeks an exceptional Head of English to lead the development and delivery of the department, providing strategic guidance across the School. The role champions a love of language and literature, drives curriculum innovation, and supports colleagues in delivering an ambitious English education to enable every pupil to flourish.

As a member of the Heads of Department team, you will contribute to the school’s wider academic and strategic development, overseeing departmental

Qualifications

• Leadership and team development
• Curriculum development and innovation
• Budget management and resource planning
• Enrichment and outreach in literature

Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire and develop the English Department to foster excellence and collaboration.
• Deliver an ambitious English curriculum that promotes reading, writing and communication.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources and facilities with value for money.
• Promote enrichment opportunities and wider literary experiences beyond the classroom.

Job description

We are seeking an exceptional and inspiring Head of English to lead the outstanding development and delivery of the department while providing strategic guidance in their specialism across the School.

Description

About Dulwich Prep & Senior

Dulwich Prep & Senior is an exciting place to work. With over 800 pupils, it has been the largest boys’ prep school in the UK and is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the world’s most cosmopolitan city. In September 2025, we launched our own Senior School, and boys can now stay with us until GCSE.

The strength of the School lies in its community: professional, passionate and highly collegiate staff; inquisitive and motivated pupils; and supportive, ambitious families. Professional development is a priority, and staff are encouraged to continue learning and growing throughout their careers.

The Role

The successful candidate will champion a love of language and literature, drive innovation within the curriculum, and support colleagues in delivering an ambitious and engaging English education that enables every pupil to flourish. As a member of the Heads of Department team, the post holder will play a key role in contributing to the wider academic and strategic development of the School.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, inspire and develop the English Department, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Ensure all pupils benefit from an ambitious, broad and balanced English curriculum that promotes outstanding academic outcomes and a lifelong appreciation of reading, writing and communication.
• Manage departmental budgets, resources and facilities effectively, ensuring value for money and high-quality provision.
• Promote enrichment opportunities, competitions, events and wider literary experiences that enhance pupils’ engagement with English beyond the classroom.

Additional Information

We reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date and encourage early applications. This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to the candidate meeting UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements and the School’s sponsorship criteria.

Safeguarding

Dulwich Prep & Senior is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to provide references from previous employers, undergo online checks, and complete an enhanced DBS check.