Head of Department - English (Maternity Leave)

Benefits: Generous pension and holiday entitlement, training and development, recognition policies, wellbeing support (24/7 GP access & EAP), access to discount platform, work life balance, family friendly policies, free parking, occupational sick pay

We are seeking a Head of Department for English (maternity cover) to join our team at Chertsey High School, part of Bourne Education Trust.

Our teachers are responsible for the learning and achievement of all pupils in the class, ensuring equity of opportunity for all, achieving the highest possible standards in work and conduct. All teachers are required to carry out the professional duties and responsibilities of a school teacher as defined by 'Teachers' Standards' and set out in the current 'School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document'.

About Chertsey High School

Chertsey High School is a truly inclusive and diverse community where every child is at the heart of our mission. As part of the Bourne Education Trust (BET), a successful multi academy trust comprising twenty five schools across Surrey, Hampshire, and the London Borough of Richmond upon Thames, we are committed to "Transforming schools changing lives." Guided by our core values of knowledge, determination, and love, we are committed to providing the best education and support for each student.

Established in 2017, our school prioritises respect, high standards, and discipline and our rich curriculum also fosters a wide range of passions and talents.

We aim to develop students with strong moral values, curiosity, resilience, and respect. Our teaching and learning approach, based on the principle of RISE (Responsive, Inclusive, Scaffolded, Engaging), ensures that all students become life long learners.

Details

Position: Head of Department - English (Maternity Leave)

Contract: Full time, temporary

Start Date: 3rd November 2025

• Generous workplace pension through TPS
• Condensed school year with two week half term in October
• Ongoing training, learning and development opportunities
• Recognition policies for exceptional performance and long service
• Well being support, including 24/7 online GP access, Employee Assistance Programme (EAP), online wellness support, free eye tests and flu vaccinations
• Access to savings on everyday spending through My Staff Shop benefits platform
• Work life balance and family friendly policies and processes
• Free on site parking and cycle to work scheme

Key responsibilities include:

• Deliver the curriculum relevant to the age and ability of students, preparing and developing teaching materials, programmes and pastoral arrangements as appropriate
• Be accountable for the attainment, progress and outcomes of all pupils within classes, planning effectively to enable pupils to meet their potential
• Recognise pupils' capabilities, planning to meet the needs of students with Special Educational Needs and collaborating with the SENCo to implement and review SEN support arrangements

Requirements include:

• Qualified Teacher Status or equivalent
• Demonstrated awareness, understanding and commitment to safeguarding children
• Evidence of effective continuous professional development
• Experience in coordinating a subject/phase leading role

Our Culture

At Bourne Education Trust, we value colleagues who are:

• Reflective, optimistic and aspirational
• Collaborative and innovative
• Committed, engaged and professional
• Advocates for equality and inclusivity

How to apply for this role:

Please click 'Apply' to complete our online application form. CVs without a fully completed application form will not be considered.

The closing date for this vacancy is 31st October 2025. However we strongly recommend applying early to increase your chances of being considered. Applications will be considered on receipt, and we retain the right to amend the closing date and withdraw this vacancy if we have received sufficient applications.

Bourne Education Trust is committed to safeguarding, equality and protecting the welfare and safety of its staff and pupils, and follows safeguarding interview procedures. All candidates are required to meet the highest standard of safeguarding and successful applicants will undergo an Enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.

We are an equal opportunity employer. Applications from all qualified individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, gender, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, and civil partnership. We will accommodate diverse needs and can provide alternative formats upon request.