Second in English

Unity Schools Partnership; Felixstowe; On-site; GBP 46,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

Unity Schools Partnership invites applications for the role of Second in English at Felixstowe School. You will support the Head of Department to drive excellent English teaching and curriculum design across KS3–KS5, leading initiatives to raise pupil achievement and collaboration among staff.

You will mentor colleagues, monitor teaching impact, and promote inclusive practices within a modern, community-focused learning environment on the Suffolk coast.

Qualifications

• Qualified teacher status with strong English teaching across KS3 to KS5.
• Demonstrated leadership experience within an English department or similar setting.
• Proven track record of improving pupil outcomes and contributing to curriculum development.
• Ability to support and inspire colleagues to achieve excellence in teaching.
• Passionate about English and committed to raising standards for all pupils.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach.
• Innovative and reflective practitioner, eager to engage with ongoing professional development.
• Commitment to inclusion, supporting a diverse community including pupil premium, SEND, and EAL pupils.

Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Department in leading and developing the English curriculum from KS3 through KS5.
• Lead initiatives to improve pupil achievement and engagement in English.
• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure high-quality teaching and learning practices.
• Contribute to the professional development of the English team through mentoring and training.
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of teaching strategies and curriculum adjustments.
• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of a diverse student body.

Skills

Leadership

English (KS3-KS5)

Curriculum design

Mentoring

Communication

Team collaboration

Inclusive practice

Professional development

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Job description

Felixstowe School is a large secondary school dedicated to serving the needs of our local community by educating students aged 11-18 to become the best versions of themselves in every aspect of life. We pride ourselves on being a true school for the community, where every child is supported to achieve their fullest potential. Our modern facilities are set within expansive grounds, providing an inspiring and spacious environment for learning. Ideally located for commuters from surrounding towns, we also benefit from the stunning Suffolk coast right on our doorstep, offering a unique and enriching setting for both staff and pupils.

Felixstowe School is excited to offer an exceptional opportunity to join our rapidly improving English department as the Second in English. This leadership role is crucial in driving excellence in teaching and learning across Key Stages 3 to 5, supporting the Head of Department to enhance curriculum design, improve pupil outcomes, and foster a motivated, collaborative team.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Department in leading and developing the English curriculum from KS3 through to KS5
• Lead initiatives to improve pupil achievement and engagement in English
• Collaborate with colleagues to ensure high-quality teaching and learning practices
• Contribute to the professional development of the English team through mentoring and training
• Monitor and evaluate the impact of teaching strategies and curriculum adjustments
• Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that meets the needs of a diverse student body

Required Qualifications and Experience

• Qualified teacher status with a strong background in teaching English across KS3 to KS5
• Demonstrable leadership experience within an English department or similar educational setting
• Proven track record of improving pupil outcomes and contributing to curriculum development
• Ability to support and inspire colleagues to achieve excellence in teaching
• Passionate about English and committed to raising standards for all pupils
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with a collaborative approach
• Innovative and reflective practitioner, eager to engage with ongoing professional development
• Commitment to inclusion, supporting a diverse community including pupil premium, SEND, and EAL pupils Salary

Salary

• Main Pay Scale (MPS) or Upper Pay Scale (UPS)

Why Felixstowe School?

• Be part of an improving school with a clear vision for success
• Benefit from excellent continuous professional development (CPD) opportunities
• Work within a friendly, supportive staff community that values collaboration
• Join an improving English department with the chance to make a real, lasting impact
• Enjoy teaching in a beautiful, modern school environment with superb facilities and spacious grounds
• Experience the unique lifestyle benefits of the Suffolk coast location

If you are ready to take on a leadership role where you can truly influence the future of English teaching and learning, and help shape the success of our pupils, we would love to hear from you.

Interview date: TBC

In line with safer recruitment, we cannot accept CVs. Incomplete application forms may result in candidates not being shortlisted.

Unity Schools Partnership is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. All successful candidates will be subject to rigorous pre‑employment checks, including an enhanced DBS. We are also committed to equality, diversity and fair recruitment practices, and we oppose all forms of unlawful discrimination.

We value inclusive working practices and diverse teams. If you wish to work part‑time or as a job‑share, we will accommodate this wherever possible. We particularly welcome applications from under‑represented groups.