Lead. Inspire. Shape the future of History.
Are you an exceptional History teacher ready to take the next step in your leadership journey?
Do you have the passion, ambition and vision to lead a department and inspire the next generation of historians?
We are looking for an outstanding Head of History to join our school and lead a committed and talented team. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious teacher who wants to make a genuine difference — not only to the outcomes students achieve, but to their understanding of the world around them.
History at The Hayfield School is about much more than remembering dates and events. We want our students to question, analyse, debate and think critically. We want them to understand how the past has shaped the present and to develop the curiosity and confidence to explore ideas for themselves.
As Head of History, you will play a central role in making that vision a reality.
What will you be responsible for?
You will lead the strategic development of History across the school, working with a talented team to ensure that every student receives an ambitious, coherent and engaging curriculum.
You will:
- Lead, inspire and develop the History department, creating a culture of collaboration and high expectations.
- Shape an ambitious and challenging curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4.
- Ensure consistently high standards of teaching, learning, assessment and behaviour.
- Support colleagues through coaching, professional development and effective departmental leadership.
- Monitor student progress and use assessment intelligently to secure excellent outcomes.
- Ensure that all students, regardless of background or starting point, are challenged and supported to succeed.
- Promote a love of History through reading, discussion, debate, enrichment and educational visits.
- Contribute actively to whole-school improvement and the wider life of the school.
Who are we looking for?
We are looking for an excellent classroom practitioner and inspirational leader who can combine high expectations with warmth, enthusiasm and a genuine commitment to young people.
You will have:
- Excellent subject knowledge and a passion for History.
- A proven track record of strong classroom practice.
- The ability to motivate and inspire both students and colleagues.
- High expectations of achievement, behaviour and personal development.
- A clear understanding of what makes an ambitious, knowledge-rich and engaging History curriculum.
- Strong organisational and communication skills.
- The confidence to lead improvement while bringing colleagues with you.
- A commitment to inclusion and ensuring that every student can succeed.
Previous experience as a Head of Department is desirable, but we are equally interested in hearing from exceptional teachers who are ready to take their first step into departmental leadership.
Why join us?
At The Hayfield School, we believe that great schools are built by great people.
You will join a supportive and ambitious staff team where professional development is valued, collaboration is encouraged and colleagues are trusted to make a difference.
We can offer:
- A highly supportive and collaborative working environment.
- Enthusiastic students who respond positively to excellent teaching.
- A committed and talented History team.
- Genuine opportunities for professional development and career progression.
- Support from an experienced and approachable leadership team.
- A school culture built around high expectations, mutual respect and continuous improvement.
- The opportunity to shape the future direction of History within the school.
- Westfield Health Plan, supporting you with a range of everyday healthcare costs, including dental, optical, physiotherapy and chiropody.
- Access to GP telephone appointments at home and abroad, 364 days per year.
- Access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. Cycle To Work Scheme.
- Blue Light Card membership available, giving you access to hundreds of discounts and savings across shopping, travel, leisure and more ( small membership fee payable by the employee).
- Free annual flu jab.
- EV Salary Sacrifice Car Scheme.
- Free on-site parking.
Why History matters
We want our students to leave school understanding that History is not simply a collection of stories from the past. It is a discipline that teaches them to question evidence, challenge assumptions, understand different perspectives and construct well-reasoned arguments.
As Head of History, you will have the opportunity to shape how our students engage with those ideas — and to inspire them to become thoughtful, curious and informed young people.
If you are excited by that prospect, we would love to hear from you.
Visits to the school are warmly encouraged. To arrange a visit or speak informally about the role, please contact Paula Kynman, Hr Manager on 01302 770589 or by email pky@thehayfieldschool.co.uk.
In accordance with DfE Keeping Children Safe in Education, an online search will be completed on all shortlisted applicants prior to interview. Any relevant information will be discussed further with the applicant during the recruitment process.
The Hayfield School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and appropriate safer recruitment checks.
We are committed to equality, diversity and inclusion and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.
We reserve the right to close advertisements early therefore the advertisement will close either on the advertised date or on the day of a decision to close early.