Head of Sociology - Permanent - January 2026

ASPIRE PEOPLE LTD; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 60,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading education agency is seeking an experienced Head of Sociology to lead a successful department in a diverse and high-achieving secondary school in Ilford, East London. The ideal candidate will have strong subject knowledge and proven leadership skills, overseeing high-quality teaching and learning while fostering student success. The role includes curriculum development and contributing to the school's continuous improvement efforts. The position is full-time and offers opportunities for career progression.

Benefits

Supportive senior leadership team

Focus on professional development

Excellent facilities and resources

Qualifications

• Proven record of securing positive student outcomes.
• Reflective, organized, and committed to continuous improvement.
• Enthusiastic about working in a diverse secondary school setting.

Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Sociology department.
• Plan and deliver a well-sequenced Sociology curriculum.
• Track and analyze student progress.

Skills

Strong subject knowledge

Leadership skills

Organizational skills

Motivational abilities

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Job description

Head of Sociology - Permanent - September 2026
Location: Ilford, East London
Contract: Full-Time, Permanent
Start Date: September 2026
Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR (dependent on experience)

Head of Sociology - The Role

We are delighted to be recruiting an enthusiastic and forward-thinking Head of Sociology to lead a successful and well-established Sociology department within a large, high-achieving secondary school and sixth form in Ilford. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced Sociology teacher or an existing middle leader seeking their next career step.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership for Sociology, driving high-quality teaching and learning and securing outstanding outcomes at both GCSE and A Level.

Working closely with senior leaders and fellow heads of department, you will play an important role in whole-school improvement and curriculum development.

Head of Sociology - About the School

The school is a large, popular and highly regarded secondary school with a thriving sixth form, serving a diverse and dynamic community in Ilford. It is recognised for its strong academic outcomes, high expectations and inclusive ethos. Students are motivated, respectful and engaged in their learning, while staff benefit from clear systems, supportive leadership and a collaborative working environment.

Social sciences and humanities are highly valued within the school, with Sociology being a popular and successful subject at both Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5. The school is committed to staff wellbeing, professional development and long-term career progression.

Head of Sociology - Key Responsibilities

• Lead and develop the Sociology department, maintaining consistently high standards of teaching and learning
• Plan and deliver a coherent, ambitious and well-sequenced Sociology curriculum at GCSE and A Level
• Track, monitor and analyse student progress to inform intervention and raise achievement
• Support, coach and develop staff within the department
• Oversee effective assessment, moderation and examination preparation
• Promote Sociology across the school and sixth form to ensure strong uptake and outcomes
• Contribute to whole-school initiatives and the wider life of the school

Head of Sociology - The Ideal Candidate Will

• Be an excellent teacher of Sociology with strong subject knowledge
• Have a proven record of securing positive student outcomes
• Demonstrate the ability to lead, inspire and motivate colleagues
• Be reflective, organised and committed to continuous improvement
• Share the school's commitment to high expectations, inclusion and equity
• Be enthusiastic about working in a large, diverse secondary school setting

Head of Sociology - What the School Offers

• A supportive and experienced senior leadership team
• Well‑motivated, well‑behaved students
• Excellent facilities and teaching resources
• A strong focus on professional development and career progression
• A collaborative, ambitious and forward‑thinking staff culture

Head of Sociology - How to Apply

Applications are welcomed from both current Heads of Sociology and experienced Sociology teachers ready to take on a leadership role.

#aspirepeoplelondon

Aspire People Limited provides services as an Education Agency and an Education Employment Business. Aspire People is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils and expects every candidate to share this commitment. Placements are subject, to appropriate Child Protection screening, including checks with former employers and the Disclosure and Barring Checks.