Head of History

The Harbour Schools Partnership; Barnstaple; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Mindful Employer Charter

Worklife Balance Day

Job summary

Pilton Community College, part of The Harbour Schools Partnership, is seeking a Head of History to lead our history department and drive a vision for academic excellence. You will champion enquiry, critical thinking, and inclusive learning, while shaping curriculum, assessment, and enrichment opportunities that bring history to life for students.

The role requires outstanding leadership, a proven track record in raising achievement, and the ability to collaborate with staff and external partners

Qualifications

• Experience leading or coordinating a team.
• Outstanding History practitioner with a proven record of raising achievement.
• Commitment to an ambitious and inclusive History curriculum.
• Ability to build links with external organisations.

Responsibilities

• Lead a high-performing History department with passion, expertise, and strategic direction.
• Shape a curriculum that inspires curiosity, challenges thinking, and develops a deep understanding of the past and its impact on the present.
• Coach and develop staff to deliver outstanding teaching and student outcomes.
• Oversee curriculum development, assessment, enrichment opportunities, and educational visits.
• Build strong links with local, national, and cultural organisations to enrich learning.

Skills

Leadership

History knowledge

Curriculum development

Team coaching

Job description

Are you an inspiring, dynamic, and forward-thinking History specialist ready to lead a thriving department? Pilton Community College are seeking an exceptional Head of History to join our middle leadership team and drive an ambitious vision for historical understanding, critical thinking, and academic excellence. About the Role As Head of History, you will:

• Lead a high-performing History department with passion, expertise, and strategic direction.
• Shape a curriculum that inspires curiosity, challenges thinking, and develops a deep understanding of the past and its impact on the present.
• Champion a culture where historical enquiry, critical analysis, and independent learning are at the heart of students' educational experience.
• Oversee curriculum development, assessment, enrichment opportunities, and educational visits that bring history to life for students.
• Coach and develop staff, ensuring high-quality teaching, learning, and outstanding student outcomes.
• Build strong links with local, national, and cultural organisations to enrich learning and broaden students' understanding of history beyond the classroom.
• Is an outstanding History practitioner with a proven record of raising achievement and inspiring learners.
• Has experience leading or coordinating a team.
• Brings energy, vision, and creativity to the role.
• Is committed to delivering an ambitious and inclusive History curriculum for all students.
• Values high expectations, strong relationships, and positive behaviour.
• Can inspire both students and colleagues through excellent communication and leadership.
• The Harbour Schools Partnership require all applicants to be eligible to work in the UK with no restrictions, as we are unable to offer sponsorship/work visas. You will be required to provide proof of Right to Work at interview stage.
• The Harbour Schools Partnership is an equal opportunities employer, committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment and an enhanced disclosure is required for this post. Our Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy is available on the relevant school website. Our Vision At Pilton Community College, we are a successful 11-16 mixed comprehensive school whose student‑centred philosophy demonstrates our commitment to enabling every student to achieve their potential by fostering a culture where students believe that success is for all. We have a strong ethos based on traditional values which underpin everything that we do. Our high expectations always positively reinforce the highest standards of learning and behaviour, encourage students to show respect for themselves, others, and the world around them. The development of positive relationships and student ownership of all aspects of school life are essential ingredients that make Pilton Community College special. We believe that: " Your character and attitudes to others will determine your success in life alongside your academic qualifications." Steve Jobs The opportunities and support that we provide enable our students to develop these key characteristics and become confident young people who contribute to our local community.

Exciting time to join Pilton CC As a school we are proud of the journey that we have been on and the way we have recently secured an 'Ofsted Good' grade across all areas. We have increased our links and collaboration with other schools both within Devon and across the country. A relational approach is at the heart of what we do, as we believe this has a long‑term impact on the success of all students from across our community.

Wellbeing Mental health and well‑being are cornerstones of the school. We offer all staff a Worklife Balance Day. As a Trust we have adopted the 'Mindful Employer Charter' . Our 'buddy system' gives all staff a support person from across the school.

Core Values

The Harbour Schools Partnership believes that our values drive our behaviours which in turn create the culture of an organisation. Our core values are: Work With Us