Director of Learning for English

  • Whitcliffe Mount School
  • Cleckheaton, Yorkshire
  • Apr 24, 2026
Full time Executive

Job Description

Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR 1c £47,782 - £65,914

Start date: 1 September 2026

We are seeking an ambitious and inspiring leader to take on the role of Director of Learning for English and lead a committed team to deliver exceptional teaching and outcomes across the department.

This is a key leadership position within the school, offering the opportunity to shape the direction of English, drive high standards, and make a meaningful impact on students' progress and life chances. You will work closely with senior leaders and the Trust Director of English to ensure continuous improvement and a rich, engaging curriculum for all learners.

The role

You will provide clear, strategic leadership for English, promoting a culture of high expectations, strong outcomes and excellent teaching.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading and developing a high-performing English team
  • Driving improvements in student progress and attainment across all key stages
  • Coaching and supporting colleagues to deliver consistently strong teaching
  • Using data effectively to inform strategy, monitor impact and close achievement gaps
  • Shaping and delivering an ambitious, inclusive English curriculum
  • Ensuring students are fully prepared for external examinations
  • Contributing to whole-school improvement and maintaining high standards of behaviour and engagement

You will also play an active role in the wider life of the school, maintaining a visible presence and supporting a positive and purposeful learning environment.

Teaching

Alongside your leadership responsibilities, you will:

  • Plan and deliver high-quality lessons across your subject
  • Assess, monitor and report on student progress
  • Contribute to curriculum development and departmental planning
  • Support students to achieve their full potential through engaging and well-structured teaching

About you

We are looking for a skilled practitioner and confident leader who can inspire both students and colleagues.

You will have:

  • Qualified Teacher Status and a relevant degree
  • A strong track record of teaching English at GCSE (A Level desirable)
  • Experience of improving teaching and learning within a department
  • The ability to analyse data and implement effective strategies to raise attainment
  • Excellent communication and behaviour management skills
  • A commitment to inclusion, safeguarding and high standards for all

You will also bring energy, integrity and a genuine enthusiasm for English, alongside a willingness to contribute fully to the wider life of the school.

Why join us?

  • A supportive and collaborative leadership team
  • Opportunities for professional development and career progression
  • A strong focus on staff wellbeing and development
  • The chance to make a real difference to students' futures

We warmly encourage prospective candidates to visit the school during the working day. To find out more, or to arrange a visit, please visit our website for details.

To view the full job description and to apply online, please visit our vacancies page.

Closing date: Midnight on 10th May 2026.

Interview date: w/c 11th May 2026.

This role is subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Applicants must complete the Trust's application form and provide evidence of identity and qualifications.