Lead Practitioner - English

This is an exciting opportunity for an exceptional classroom practitioner to lead teaching and learning in English, working in close partnership with the Head of Faculty. As Lead Practitioner, you will be at the heart of improving day-to-day classroom practice — modelling excellence, coaching colleagues, shaping curriculum delivery and ensuring that every English lesson reflects the highest standards. You will play a key role in building a department recognised for challenge, clarity and ambition, aligned to our vision of being a remarkable school where great teaching transforms lives. This role is ideal for a passionate English specialist who wants to influence practice beyond their own classroom and help build one of the strongest English teams in Essex.

We are determined to become the school of choice in Essex—a place where every young person is challenged, supported, and inspired to thrive. This isn’t a dream - it is a promise and you will be at the centre of delivering and creating this.

The Role

• Work closely with the Head of Faculty to support and drive the strategic vision for the English department.
• Model outstanding classroom practice, setting a benchmark for teaching and learning standards.
• Coach and mentor colleagues within the department and across the school, supporting their professional development.
• Shape and deliver an ambitious English curriculum that meets the needs of all learners.
• Drive high standards and continuous improvement across the department.
• Build a English department known for challenge, clarity, and ambition.
• Influence teaching practice and learning outcomes beyond your own classroom.
• Help to create one of the strongest English teams in Essex.

Who we’re looking for

Someone with:

• In-depth knowledge of the English curriculum and assessment requirements at KS3 and KS4 (and KS5 if applicable)
• Outstanding classroom practitioner, with a track record of strong student outcomes
• Ability to model and share effective teaching strategies
• Strong data analysis skills and ability to translate findings into action
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Ability to inspire, challenge, and support colleagues at all levels

Why Join King Edmund School?

This is a school with immense potential and a powerful sense of purpose. Under new leadership, we are creating something exceptional—step by step, brick by brick. You will be joining a committed, talented team at a moment of transformation, where your leadership will directly shape our school’s success story.

Come and be part of something extraordinary!

The school offers an extensive support programme, including mentor/buddy system, Initial Teacher Training support for Early Career Teachers (ECTs) or for those seeking Qualified Teacher Status (QTS / QTLS), a system of twilight training sessions, as well as excellent development opportunities.  Staff benefits include free car parking, onsite gymnasium and swimming pool as well as staff recognition schemes. 

If you are currently considering a career move, we would very much like to hear from you.  Please visit the vacancies section of our website (https://kes.essex.sch.uk/join-our-community/staff-vacancies) and complete the ‘Quick Apply’ application form and submit a copy of your CV. For more about our school and vision please see attached welcome letter from our new Headteacher.

We also welcome and encourage telephone calls on 01702 560904 to register an interest or to find out more about the school and the role. If you wish to arrange an informal conversation or visit to the school prior to interview, we would be delighted to welcome you to KES prior to the closing date, to offer you the opportunity to get a real sense of the school first hand. 

To arrange a visit, please email your request to Mrs Andrea Atkins – HR Manager at recruitment@kes.essex.sch.uk and provide your availability, as well as a contact telephone number.

The King Edmund School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments will be subject to a satisfactory completion of safeguarding checks.

The King Edmund School is committed to creating a diverse workforce. We’ll consider all qualified applicants for employment without regard to sex, race, religion, belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, pregnancy, maternity, age, disability, marriage, or civil partnership.