Lead Teacher of Drama

Aspire Sixth; Walsall; On-site; GBP 60,000 - GBP 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A high-performing educational institution in Walsall is seeking an inspiring Lead Teacher of Drama. You will provide expert leadership while fostering a vibrant culture in Drama across all Key Stages. The role requires strong leadership, mentoring, and communication skills to drive standards and innovation within the curriculum. This position offers professional development in a supportive environment committed to staff wellbeing and high achievement.

Benefits

Professional development opportunities

Supportive working environment

Career progression enablement

Qualifications

• Proven track record of raising aspirations and achievement.
• Ability to mentor staff and manage departmental budgets.
• Commitment to staying at the forefront of Drama education.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching within the department.
• Lead Drama curriculum planning and ensure assessment policies are robust.
• Induct and mentor teachers in the department for high-quality learning.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum design

Strong communication

Mentorship

CPD commitment

Job description

Lead Teacher of Drama

Cheslyn Hay Academy is a high-performing and successful mixed 11-18 comprehensive academy of 1,300 students. As part of the forward-thinking and progressive Windsor Academy Trust, we work to ensure all students and staff can have High Expectations and High Achievement in all that they do. Cheslyn Hay Academy is an oversubscribed school and we value our strong community reputation and links.

The Role

We are seeking an inspiring and strategic Lead Teacher of Drama who will not only challenge and drive students but also provide expert pedagogical leadership within the department. This is an exciting opportunity for a committed practitioner to take a central role in curriculum innovation and staff development.

You will work within an established and talented faculty, taking responsibility for raising standards of attainment, mentoring colleagues, and ensuring that Drama remains a vibrant, high-achieving subject at all Key Stages.

You will have

• The ability to lead, inspire, and motivate both students and colleagues, with a proven track record of raising aspirations and achievement.
• Expertise in curriculum design, with the ability to lead on syllabus selection, scheme of work development, and national curriculum initiatives.
• Strong leadership skills, including the ability to mentor staff, manage departmental budgets, and implement effective school improvement strategies.
• Reflective practice and a commitment to CPD, dedicated to staying at the forefront of Drama education and pedagogical developments.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, building positive relationships with stakeholders and acting as a positive role model for the department.

Cheslyn Hay Academy will allow you to

• Lead in a forward-thinking school that values the Arts and creative subjects.
• Benefit from professional leadership development and the opportunity to collaborate across an innovative and exciting Multi-Academy Trust.
• Shape the future of Drama within a supportive and ambitious environment where students are encouraged to "go beyond."
• Work in a high-quality environment where staff wellbeing is central and career progression is actively enabled.

Key Responsibilities (Lead Teacher)

• Strategic Leadership: Work with the Leadership Team to monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching and set ambitious targets for improvement.
• Curriculum Excellence: Proactively lead Drama curriculum planning and ensure moderation procedures and assessment policies are robust.
• Staff Development: Induct, mentor, and monitor the work of teachers within the department to ensure high-quality learning experiences.
• Resource Management: Oversee departmental expenditure, health and safety (including risk assessments), and the management of specialist facilities.

Closing date: 23 February 2026

Interview dates: TBC

How to Apply: If you would like to find out why our staff love working at Cheslyn Hay Academy, feel free to contact Megan Wickes at [e-mail] to arrange an opportunity to meet with the Headteacher and discuss the role.

Cheslyn Hay Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check with Children’s Barred List. Evidence of having the right to work in the UK is required.