Head of History

Catholic Recruitment; Slough; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

Catholic Recruitment is seeking a Head of Department for History at St Joseph’s, a prominent Catholic secondary school near Slough. The post leads a committed team, shaping the curriculum from GCSE through A Level, while driving high standards of teaching, pupil progress and examination outcomes.

You will foster critical thinking, independent research and a culture of professional development in a faith-based community.

Responsibilities

• Lead the History Department to deliver excellent lessons and pupil progress.
• Shape curriculum development for GCSE and A Level History.
• Promote critical thinking and wider reading across the subject.
• Drive professional development and safeguarding in a Catholic school.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Team management

Job description

We are looking for a highly motivated and inspirational Head of Department to lead our effective and committed History Department focused on delivering excellent lessons for all students we serve, helping them to achieve excellent results and progress.

The History Department is a committed and supportive team and the importance of achieving in the subject is clearly recognised by pupils. The department has a strong track record of success at both GCSE and A Level, with students demonstrating excellent outcomes and a genuine enthusiasm for the subject. History is a popular option choice at Key Stage 4 and many students continue their studies into the Sixth Form. The department is committed to developing students as critical thinkers, confident historians and engaged citizens through a broad and ambitious curriculum, enriched by opportunities for debate, independent research and wider reading.

Our Sixth Form students study Edexcel A Level History, building on the analytical and evaluative skills acquired at GCSE. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to shape the continued development of the curriculum and further enhance the profile of History across the school.

This is a fantastic opportunity to join a highly motivated learning community of approximately 1000 students (including 205 in the Sixth Form) where we have a deep-rooted belief in professional development. In exchange for hard work and a commitment to the school, we will ensure that you are prepared for the next stage in your teaching career.

At St Joseph’s we challenge our teachers to “love the children, and to let them know that they are loved,” through everything we do with our students to “Unlock the Belief” in themselves and others. To support teachers in this mission we support teachers by:

• We have a behaviour system that lets teachers teach
• We treat teachers like surgeons with weekly CPD and training
• All teachers are included in our reading and electives programme
• We work hard for the children and we care for each other like a family

Join an Outstanding Catholic school where the Catholic ethos permeates every aspect of school life and

Staff are deeply committed to the mission of the school, creating a culture where pupils flourish.

(Section 48 Inspection, 2025).

We believe in professional development. In exchange for hard work and a commitment to the school, we will ensure that you are prepared for the next stage in your teaching career.

St Joseph’s is a successful oversubscribed Catholic secondary school within easy reach of both the M4 and M40 motorways and the Elizabeth Line directly into London.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The school complies with the DBS Code of Practice regarding criminal record information and will not discriminate unfairly against any applicant on the basis of a conviction or other information revealed. A copy of the school’s Child Protection Policy is available on request.

All members of staff will require an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check, and this is a condition of employment at the school. As part of our safer recruitment procedures, online and social media checks may be carried out on shortlisted candidates in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance.

You are welcome and encouraged to visit the school and have a tour at a time convenient to all.