Head of History

The Independent Schools Council; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Laptop and iPad provided

Free lunch and refreshments

Use of school sports facilities

Annual flu vaccination

Employee Assistance Programme

Extensive CPD and INSET opportunities

Job summary

Channing School invites applications for a Head of History, to lead a thriving History department from January 2027. The post requires strategic vision to develop Fearless Learners and bespoke outcomes for every pupil, while guiding a team of specialist teachers to deliver consistently high teaching quality and strong academic results.

The successful candidate will oversee curriculum development across KS3–KS5, promote innovation and evidence-informed practice, and lead a dynamic co-curricular

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for the History department and articulate a clear educational vision that aligns with Channing’s goals.
• Lead and inspire a team of specialist teachers to ensure consistently excellent teaching and learning, strong academic outcomes and collaborative practice.
• Oversee curriculum development across Key Stages 3–5, champion innovation and evidence-informed practice.
• Lead a vibrant co-curricular programme that enriches pupil experiences within and beyond the classroom.

Job description

At Channing, we believe that the study of History enables young women to understand the complexities of the modern world, develop intellectual curiosity and critical thinking, and engage thoughtfully. Through the exploration of the past, pupils learn to question, analyse and communicate with confidence, becoming informed, and reflective. History is a thriving subject at Channing, with excellent outcomes at GCSE and A Level and many students progressing to study History and related disciplines at leading universities, including Oxford and Cambridge.

The curriculum is broad, intellectually challenging and globally minded, extending well beyond the National Curriculum to reflect the interests and abilities of our pupils. A rich programme of trips, visits, conferences, societies and academic enrichment opportunities supports classroom learning and fosters a genuine enthusiasm for historical study. The department also plays a leading role in promoting super-curricular engagement through initiatives such as the annual History Conference, History Journal and Pursuit of History Programme.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for the department, articulating a clear educational vision that aligns with Channing’s commitment to developing Fearless Learners and delivering bespoke outcomes for every pupil. They will lead and inspire a talented team of specialist teachers, ensuring consistently excellent teaching and learning, strong academic outcomes and a culture of professional collaboration. They will oversee curriculum development across Key Stages 3–5, champion innovation and evidence informed practice, and lead a vibrant co-curricular programme that enriches pupils’ experiences both within and beyond the classroom.

For further information, please refer to the Job Description document provided.

Hours:

Full Time

Start Date:

January 2027

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive salary scale, dependent on qualifications and experience
• Enrolment into the APTIS pension scheme (10% employer contribution, minimum 2% employee contribution)
• Laptop and iPad provided
• Free lunch and refreshments throughout the day
• Use of school sports facilities when available
• Annual flu vaccination and Employee Assistance Programme
• Extensive CPD and INSET opportunities, with scope for professional progression

Safeguarding Commitment

Channing School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows a formal recruitment procedure in line with Department for Education guidance on Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education and the school’s Child Protection Policy. A copy of this procedure is available on request.

Subject to statutory provisions, no applicant will be treated less favourably than another on the grounds of a protected characteristic. Ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration.

In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, all shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches, including social media and third-party screening through Safehire.