Deputy Head of English

Deputy Head of English - Full Time, Permanent
Competitive (Outer London Pay Scale + TLR) (£39,851 - £56,154)
September 2026

A high-performing and ambitious secondary school in East London is seeking to appoint an exceptional Deputy Head of English to join its successful English department from September 2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced and passionate English teacher to take the next step in their leadership career within a school renowned for its strong academic outcomes and culture of excellence.

About the School

This outstanding secondary school and sixth form is widely recognised for its high academic standards, strong leadership and exceptional student progress. The school consistently performs within the top 10% of schools nationally and has a well-established reputation for delivering outstanding results across a broad and balanced curriculum.

The school was rated "Good" by Ofsted, with Outstanding features in leadership, personal development and sixth form provision, highlighting the strength of the school's vision, teaching quality and student support.

Students are highly motivated, ambitious and respectful, and the school prides itself on providing an exceptional educational experience that enables every student to reach their full potential. A large proportion of students progress to Russell Group and other leading universities, reflecting the school's commitment to academic excellence.

Staff benefit from a collaborative professional culture, strong leadership support and excellent opportunities for career progression and professional development.

The English Department

The English department is one of the largest and most successful departments in the school, with a strong track record of excellent GCSE and A Level outcomes. Students consistently achieve results that are well above national averages, supported by a highly experienced and collaborative team of English specialists.

The department delivers a challenging and engaging curriculum across Key Stage 3, GCSE and A Level, with a strong focus on developing students' analytical skills, creativity and critical thinking. Teachers work closely together to share best practice, develop innovative teaching strategies and ensure all students achieve exceptional progress.

English plays a central role in the school's academic culture, and the department is deeply involved in a wide range of literacy initiatives, enrichment programmes and cross-curricular projects that support whole-school achievement.

The Role

The Deputy Head of English will support the Head of Department in providing strategic leadership for the subject, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching, learning and student achievement.

Key responsibilities include:

• Supporting the strategic development of the English curriculum across KS3-KS5

• Helping to lead and develop a large team of English teachers

• Using data effectively to raise attainment and progress for all students

• Monitoring and improving the quality of teaching and learning within the department

• Supporting staff development through coaching, mentoring and sharing best practice

• Contributing to whole-school initiatives and school improvement planning

• Promoting a culture of high expectations, aspiration and academic excellence

The successful candidate will play a key role in maintaining the department's excellent results while helping to shape its future development.

Person Specification

The school is seeking a candidate who:

• Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

• Has excellent subject knowledge in English and strong curriculum expertise

• Demonstrates a proven track record of outstanding teaching and strong student outcomes

• Has the ability to lead, inspire and develop colleagues

• Is confident using data to drive improvement in teaching and learning

• Has a strong understanding of the UK National Curriculum and assessment frameworks

• Is committed to raising aspirations and improving outcomes for all students

This role would suit an experienced teacher or current middle leader ready to take the next step into a significant leadership role within a thriving department.

Why Apply?

• Join a high-performing school with exceptional results

• Work within a large, successful and supportive English department

• Benefit from strong leadership and clear career progression pathways

• Teach motivated and ambitious students

• Play a key role in shaping the future development of the English department

Apply Now

This is an exciting leadership opportunity for a talented English specialist ready to make a significant impact within a high-achieving school.

Please send your CV to Natasja at KPI Education today to be considered for this exciting Deputy Head of English opportunity starting September 2026.