Head of English

Salcombeprep; Colchester; On-site; GBP 125,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school in Colchester is seeking an experienced Head of English to enhance student achievement through high-quality teaching and effective curriculum oversight. The role involves monitoring student progress, providing pastoral support, and collaborating with the leadership team. Applicants should possess Qualified Teacher Status, a relevant degree, and experience in teaching English. This permanent, full-time position offers a competitive salary along with benefits, including pension scheme enrollment and ongoing professional development.

Benefits

Competitive salary

Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme

Free lunch during Term Time

School holidays and public holidays

Free parking on site

School fee discount

Exclusive third-party discounts

Ongoing professional development

Qualifications

• Committed to driving high standards in education.
• Ability to adapt to the demands of a busy independent school.
• Strong relationship-building skills.

Responsibilities

• Deliver high-quality English lessons.
• Oversee curriculum and planning schemes of work.
• Monitor student progress and provide pastoral support.

Skills

Teaching English

Classroom management

Organizational skills

Effective communication

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Good university degree

PGCE or equivalent

Job description

Overview

About the School - Colchester Prep and High School was founded in 1882 by Ferdinand Gröne as a ‘most desirable establishment for young ladies’, providing a ‘sound English education’. The school has built a reputation for an excellent all-round education while preparing pupils for life beyond school. The current focus is on inspiring teaching and a forward-thinking STEAM curriculum, developing confidence, self-belief and strength of character in pupils aged 2 to 16, with a global perspective and social responsibility. The community aims to create the “Changemakers of Tomorrow’s World” in a friendly, caring, close-knit environment.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of English to join the team.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 21 countries, serving more than 100,000 students. Each school is unique, with a collective purpose to create an environment where everyone can, Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

We nurture students’ distinct personalities and strengths, supporting them academically, socially and emotionally, wherever they are in the world. Our schools are part of a broader community, connected to share knowledge and best practices, with the aim of delivering world-class education and an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.

About the role

As the Head of English, you will play a key role in raising student achievement and attainment by delivering high-quality lessons. You will have oversight of the curriculum, planning schemes of work, and ensuring resources are effectively developed to support student learning.

Your responsibilities will also include monitoring student progress through internal and external assessments, offering pastoral support in collaboration with the Head of Character Development and Wellbeing, and supporting the school’s co-curricular programme. You will work closely with the school’s leadership team to help drive the development of the department and the wider school. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher who is committed to delivering outstanding teaching and supporting the overall development of the students.

This is a permanent, full-time role with a proposed April 2026 start date.

To view our Role Profile, click here.

Who we are looking for

• We are looking for a qualified, passionate, and dynamic teacher with a strong academic background and a commitment to driving high standards.
• You will possess a good university degree, Qualified Teacher Status and a PGCE or equivalent.
• You should have experience teaching English, with excellent classroom management and organisational skills.
• You will be an effective communicator, able to build strong relationships with students, staff, and parents.
• A flexible, solution-focused attitude is essential, along with the ability to adapt to the demands of a busy independent school.
• You should be a role model, with high expectations for student achievement and behaviour, and a commitment to continuous professional development.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
• Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme
• Free lunch provided during Term Time
• School holidays and public holidays / Holiday Allowance
• Free parking on site (subject to availability)
• School fee discount
• Exclusive third-party discounts
• Ongoing professional development

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: Monday 2nd February 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders are included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date for the right applicant.