Head of English and Literacy

Head of English and Literacy
Job Title: Head of English and Literacy
Location: near Rye
Working Pattern: Full-time
Industry: Education & Training
If you're an inspiring English specialist with a passion for literacy development, inclusive teaching, and leading others to deliver exceptional practice, this role could be an exciting next step. A welcoming specialist school near Rye is seeking a committed Head of English to lead the development of English and Literacy from Year 7 to Sixth Form, ensuring high-quality, tailored teaching for students with dyslexia and co-occurring learning needs.This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced teacher and middle leader who thrives in a nurturing, collaborative environment and wants to make a genuine impact on young people's confidence, communication skills, and long-term success.
About the School
This school is well known for its inclusive values, strong sense of community, and specialist support for learners with dyslexia. Staff work collaboratively, leadership is supportive and approachable, and the school places great emphasis on wellbeing, personalised learning, and building positive relationships with students and families.You'll be joining a team that celebrates progress in all its forms and believes in empowering every learner through high-quality teaching and consistent, evidence-informed literacy practice. If you're motivated by meaningful progress and enjoy leading others through creativity, clarity, and compassion, this role will feel like a natural fit.
Your New Role
As an English and Literacy Teacher, you will deliver high‑quality, differentiated English teaching across Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 4 (with potential involvement in Sixth Form as required). Your focus will be on supporting students with dyslexia through specialist, evidence‑based teaching strategies.
You will plan and deliver engaging, structured lessons that develop core literacy skills, including phonics, reading, spelling and written expression. Using multisensory approaches and assistive technologies, you will ensure lessons are accessible, appropriately challenging and tailored to individual learning needs.
You will assess and monitor student progress closely, using data to inform planning and ensure effective progression. The role also involves delivering targeted interventions, supporting small groups or individuals, and maintaining accurate records including Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
Working collaboratively with colleagues, including learning support staff and teaching assistants, you will help deliver a consistent and effective approach to literacy development across the school. You will also contribute to whole‑school literacy strategies and ongoing curriculum development.In addition, you will play a full part in the pastoral life of the school as a Form Tutor, contribute to PSHE, and support the wider boarding and co‑curricular environment.

What You'll Need to Succeed

Qualified Teacher Status and a degree in English (or significant relevant experience)
Experience teaching English in a school setting
Strong understanding of literacy development, including phonics, reading and spelling
Experience supporting students with dyslexia and specific learning difficulties
Ability to adapt teaching and resources to meet a range of learning needs
Knowledge of evidence‑based literacy interventions and multisensory teaching approaches
Strong organisational and communication skills
Ability to assess progress effectively and tailor teaching accordingly
Commitment to safeguarding and student wellbeing
A positive, flexible approach and willingness to contribute to wider school life
What You Need to Do Now
If you're interested in this role, click 'apply now' to send your most recent CV, or contact us directly for more information.If this job isn't quite right for you but you're exploring new opportunities, please get in touch for a confidential conversation about your next career move.

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