Head of English
Head of English
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for helping students to flourish and enjoy learning within English?
Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based in Cold Ash, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and Co-Curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women, prepared to take on the world.We are looking to appoint an outstanding and enthusiastic Head of English to start in September 2025.
Our large and thriving English Department achieves excellent academic results and provides a wealth of extra-curricular activities for pupils. As Head of English, you will be the leading subject professional, managing your department with energy and expertise.You will inspire excellence in teaching and learning within your department, support colleagues in improving practice and deliver an excellent educational experience for pupils.
At Downe House you will join a supportive, close-knit team where professional development is valued, and colleagues share a common commitment to educational excellence. From our regular CPD sessions to seasonal gatherings, you’ll find opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow within our welcoming school community.
We welcome applications from both experienced leaders and teachers who are looking for a new challenge in leading a department. Our pupils follow the Edexcel IGCSE specification and AQA A Level specification, so previous experience of these would be highly beneficial.
Benefits Include:
- Generous teacher pension scheme - 21% employer contribution
- Life insurance and critical illness cover
- Discounted school fees
- Regular CPD opportunities
- A supportive induction programme
- Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
- Delicious free meals
- Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
- A variety of social occasions through the year
How to Apply
Application forms can be downloaded from our website. Completed application forms should be sent to recruitment@downehouse.net by 18th March 2025.
Face to face interviews will take place on the 24th March.
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.
For further details you can contact the HR Department on 01635 204712 or email recruitment@downehouse.net
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks.
At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.