Head of English and Media - Independent School (Reading, September 2025)

Perham Education Partnership; Reading; On-site; GBP 45,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious independent school in Reading seeks an experienced Head of English and Media to lead their dynamic department. You will oversee curriculum development, manage a team of educators, and foster a love for literature and media among students. Ideal candidates will have a degree in a related field and significant leadership experience. The role offers a competitive salary, exceptional facilities, and opportunities for professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary & benefits package

Flexible working options

Career development opportunities

Access to state-of-the-art facilities

Supportive school community

Qualifications

• Proven leadership experience within an English or Media department.
• Strong curriculum development skills.
• Commitment to academic excellence and student well-being.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the English and Media Department.
• Oversee curriculum design for English and Media.
• Monitor student progress and implement improvement strategies.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Communication

Organizational skills

Inspiring students

Education

Degree in English, Media, or related subject

Formal teaching qualification with QTS

Job description

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Head of English and Media - Independent School (Reading, September 2025), Reading

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Client:

Location:

Reading, United Kingdom

Job Category:

Other

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EU work permit required:

Yes

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Job Reference:

8885cd0a017e

Job Views:

21

Posted:

12.08.2025

Expiry Date:

26.09.2025

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Job Description:

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About the Role

We are seeking an inspirational and experienced Head of English and Media to lead our dynamic department at a prestigious independent school. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate educator and leader to shape the vision and direction of English and Media studies, fostering a love for literature, language, and digital storytelling across KS3 to KS5.

As Head of English and Media, you will be responsible for curriculum development, departmental leadership, and student achievement, ensuring a high standard of teaching and learning. You will guide a dedicated team of teachers, inspire students through innovative and engaging lessons, and drive excellence in both academic and extracurricular activities.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, manage, and develop the English and Media Department, ensuring high-quality teaching and outstanding student outcomes.
• Oversee the curriculum design for English and Media, fostering a rich learning experience that blends traditional literature, creative writing, film, journalism, and digital media.
• Inspire students through engaging and thought-provoking lessons that encourage critical thinking, creativity, and self-expression.
• Monitor and evaluate student progress, implementing strategies for continuous improvement and academic success.
• Support and mentor teaching staff, promoting professional development and maintaining high teaching standards.
• Develop and expand extracurricular opportunities, including debate clubs, film production, journalism projects, and creative writing workshops.
• Collaborate with senior leadership to align the department’s vision with the school's academic and cultural values.
• Create an inclusive and supportive classroom environment where students feel confident to explore literature and media in depth.

About the School

Our independent school is renowned for its academic excellence and commitment to a holistic education. With a strong tradition in the arts and humanities, we provide students with a stimulating and supportive learning environment where they can develop their talents in both literary and digital communication.

• Leadership Opportunity – Shape and grow a thriving English and Media department in a prestigious independent school.
• Exceptional Facilities – Access to state-of-the-art classrooms, media suites, and digital resources to support innovative teaching.
• Supportive School Community – A close-knit environment that values creativity, professional growth, and collaboration.
• Competitive Salary & Benefits Package – Recognizing leadership responsibilities and expertise.
• Flexible Working Options – Promoting work-life balance and staff well-being.
• Career Development – Continuous opportunities for training, leadership development, and career progression.

About You

To be successful in this role, you will need:

• A degree in English, Media, English Literature, or a related subject.
• A formal teaching qualification with QTS (PGCE or equivalent).
• Proven leadership experience within an English or Media department, with a track record of academic success and innovation.
• A passion for literature, media, and digital storytelling, with the ability to engage and inspire students.
• Strong curriculum development skills, ensuring a progressive and enriching learning experience.
• Excellent communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills, fostering a collaborative team culture.
• A commitment to academic excellence and student well-being in an independent school setting.

Application Process

If you are a motivated and visionary educator ready to lead an outstanding English and Media Department, we would love to hear from you.

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your leadership experience, passion for teaching, and vision for English and Media education.