Trust Lead Practitioner of English

A unique opportunity has arisen for an exceptional and inspirational leader to work as a Trust Lead Practitioner of English, supporting Zenith’s school improvement team as we grow.

We are a medium sized, local Trust in South Essex, currently comprising three secondary schools, one primary school, and one special school: Castle View School in Canvey Island, Castledon School in Wickford, Laindon Park Primary School and Nursery in Basildon, The James Hornsby School in Basildon, and The King John School (with a Sixth form) in Benfleet.

We are seeking applications from candidates with a genuine passion for English, and the drive and flair to instill a life-long love of the subject in all students, championing the unique value of English in the school curriculum.

Along with an excellent track record of curriculum innovation and outstanding academic results, the successful candidate will have the right skills, experience, and potential to add to our dynamic Multi Academy Trust. Zenith Trust has formed an innovative partnership with the Education Endowment Foundation (EEF), and this means it is a very exciting time to join us. Initially, this post will predominantly be based within The James Hornsby School (rated Good by Ofsted in all areas) for 4 days, where responsibilities will include working closely with the Head of Department and Senior Leaders to ensure outstanding progress for students across Key Stage 3 and 4. The role will include working with, and supporting the wider English department, delivering coaching and training as required, and developing resources/formulating strategy.

At a Trust level, the role will involve working across all our 5 schools (1 day), liaising with department leads to improve standards of achievement, and ensure teaching is of the highest quality across all Key Stages. There will be a particular focus on delivering CPD, developing resources/approaches to improving standards, and supporting the work of our English cross-Trust community of practice. This work will involve visits to other schools, but you will be based in Zenith’s central office at The King John School. You will report directly to the CEO, and this role will offer significant development opportunities for the successful candidate, with ongoing support for CPD such as a Masters qualification.

All the students in our care deserve the very best from our schools, and the successful candidate will share our deep commitment to the Trust’s Mission, Aims, and Values, which should be clearly reflected at both the application and interview stages. The Trust will ensure the successful candidate has the very best resources and support to drive strategy and lead change, thus providing a truly quality education for all. Zenith Multi Academy Trust provides a wide range of additional staff benefits, including Benenden Health membership, VIVUP employee discount scheme, access to on-site staff counsellors, and ongoing wellbeing initiatives, ensuring our staff are able to achieve the very best outcomes for their students; as such this is a wonderful career opportunity.

If you would like an informal discussion with the Chief Executive Officer prior to applying, please contact Leigh Christensen on leighch@zmat.co.uk.

Applications

To apply for the role please download the application form from the vacancy page on https://www.zenithmultiacademytrust.co.uk/vacancies/, completed applications should be submitted to recruitment@zmat.co.uk. CVs will not be accepted without a completed application form.

You must complete the application form fully and give details of all employment, training and gaps in employment since leaving secondary school to the present day. Any additional information, which you wish to bring to the notice of the selection panel should be included in your letter of application (supporting statement). Please ensure you say why and how you meet the criteria from the person specification in your letter of application. Full job description and person specification can be found at the end of this pack.

Shortlisted applicants may be screened prior to interview by checking social media sites. The purpose of such screening will be to ascertain whether a candidate demonstrates appropriate conduct, behaviour and suitability for employment in a school environment.

Closing Date: Midday, Friday 11th October 2024

Interview Date: Wednesday 23rd October 2024

If you have any queries, wish to discuss the role informally or undertake a visit to the Trust, please do not hesitate to contact us via email recruitment@zmat.co.uk or telephone 01702 426744.

We look forward to receiving your application. You will be notified of your application status within two weeks of the vacancy closing date.