Head of English

Suffolk Jobs Direct Careers; Ipswich; On-site; GBP 125,000 - GBP 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Ipswich is seeking a dedicated Head of English to lead an accomplished department. This role involves supervising curriculum delivery, maintaining teaching standards, and promoting literary activities. The ideal candidate should have experience in education leadership and a strong commitment to student excellence. A competitive remuneration package including fee remission and other benefits will be offered. Applications are encouraged early as they will be reviewed upon receipt.

Benefits

Fee remission

Free school meals

Use of school facilities

Qualifications

• Experience in leading a department within a secondary or boarding school.
• Strong commitment to excellence in English education.
• Willingness to engage in the life of a busy boarding school.

Responsibilities

• Lead the English department and oversee the English curriculum.
• Maintain high standards of teaching and learning.
• Contribute to literary and enrichment activities.

Skills

Leadership in education

Commitment to student development

Collaboration with external partners

Job description

Overview

Old Buckenham Hall is looking to appoint a talented and committed individual to the significant role of Head of English. You will be expected to lead in the delivery of this vital department, supported by a team of outstanding teaching staff. English at OBH has long been a highly successful area of the school and boasts a busy calendar of events throughout the academic year. Recent highlights have included visiting authors, poetry competitions, book clubs and the ever-popular World Book Day celebrations. The school celebrates a significant number of academic scholars each year and the Head of English is integral to this success.

There has never been a more exciting time to join OBH, with the school recently joining the Rugby School Group and a multi-million-pound investment programme beginning in the coming months. The role will suit a highly ambitious individual who is committed to life in a busy boarding school and the prospect of collaboration with a sector-leading group of schools.

A generous remuneration package, including fee remission, free school meals and use of school facilities will be available.

Responsibilities

• Lead the English department and oversee the delivery of the English curriculum across relevant year groups.
• Work with a team of teaching staff to maintain high standards of teaching and learning.
• Contribute to the school's literary and enrichment activities (e.g., visiting authors, book clubs, World Book Day).
• Collaborate with a sector-leading group of schools in the Rugby School Group.

Requirements / Qualifications

• Experience in leading a department within a secondary or boarding school setting.
• Strong commitment to student development and excellence in English education.
• Willingness to engage in the life of a busy boarding school and to work collaboratively with external partners.

Additional Information

• Hours: 50 hours per week
• Contract: Permanent, required to start September 2026
• Reference: 8403
• Salary: Competitive

Closing date: 20 February 2026.

Interview date: 2 March 2026.

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. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). It is an offence to apply for this role if you are barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children.

We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons regardless of their race, sex, disability, religion/belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment or age.

Charity Registration Number 528752

How to Apply

Please register and complete an application via our recruitment portal which can be found at www.rugbyschool.co.uk/about/employment-opportunities. Applications will be considered upon receipt, and we reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date. Therefore, an early application is strongly advised.

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