Head of English

THE ROLE

An exciting opportunity has arisen at The Oratory for a Head of English teaching position. We are looking for a vibrant and dynamic Head of English to join our team. As the Head of English you will play a crucial role in shaping the educational experiences of our students and ensuring a rich and diverse learning environment for them.

The Head of English has responsibility for the successful planning, development, delivery and administration of the academic English curriculum and evaluating student performance. In addition, the Head of English will have strong leadership skills and take responsibility for supervising a team of English Teachers.

The need to develop a rapport with students that promotes high academic standards and intellectual development is paramount, as well as the enthusiasm to encourage students to take the subject further academically.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for students of all abilities. You will also be expected to participate in school-wide initiatives and help promote the importance of English education to parents and the wider community.

THE DEPARTMENT

The English Department comprises the Head of Department, two other full-time teachers, and two part-time teachers. There are four English classrooms and a Head of Department office.

For GCSE, the Department follows the Edexcel IGCSE specifications in English and English Literature and, at A Level, both Edexcel English Literature and English Language A Levels are offered. The department is in a modern set of classrooms which offer an inspirational setting for study. The teachers in the department have a passion for their subject and are keen to communicate their love of both English Literature and Language to their students. We teach a broad academic range and are required to stretch the very bright, as well as nurture those pupils who need support. In terms of the age range of our pupils, we teach from Year 7 to GCE A Level.

We use Microsoft Teams as a form of distributing vital notes or presentations, for revision and study guidance, and the setting of homework/prep. The department organises regular theatre trips and author events.

Through the leadership of the Head of Teaching and Learning all staff are actively encouraged to undertake CPD opportunities and to continually share and reflect on their practice, engaging in and applying their awareness of developments in teaching and learning strategies, including digital initiatives.

BENEFITS

• Sports Centre membership with free access to the gym; squash courts, lane swimming and golf course.
• A meal while on duty during term time.
• Contributory pension scheme.
• Free parking.

SAFEGUARDING

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

The following duties will be deemed to be included in the duties which you may be required to perform:

• child protection, discipline, health and safety.
• promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons for whom you are responsible.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants should complete the school’s application form and send together with a covering letter in PDF format to recruitment@oratory.co.uk

The closing date for applications is 2 February 2025 with Interviews taking place soon thereafter. Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications or if we find a suitable candidate from early applications.

Please send postal applications together with a covering letter to:

Human Resources Department, The Oratory School, Woodcote, Reading RG8 0PJ

For any queries, please email recruitment@oratory.co.uk.

The Oratory Schools Association Registered Charity No. 309112 is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exception Order 1975,2013,2020