Independent Schools Association (ISA)
Head of English
Requirements
The posting seeks an inspiring English leader who can guide colleagues, drive curriculum innovation, and deliver engaging English education. Applicants must be willing to provide references, undergo online checks, and complete an enhanced DBS check; no specific degree or years of experience are stated.
Job Description
Description
About Dulwich Prep & Senior
Dulwich Prep & Senior is an exciting place to work. With over 800 pupils, it has been the largest boys’ prep school in the UK and is situated in one of the most beautiful parts of the world’s most cosmopolitan city. In September 2025, we launched our own Senior School, and boys can now stay with us until GCSE.
The strength of the School lies in its community: professional, passionate and highly collegiate staff; inquisitive and motivated pupils; and supportive, ambitious families. Professional development is a priority, and staff are encouraged to continue learning and growing throughout their careers.
The Role
The successful candidate will champion a love of language and literature, drive innovation within the curriculum, and support colleagues in delivering an ambitious and engaging English education that enables every pupil to flourish. As a member of the Heads of Department team, the post holder will play a key role in contributing to the wider academic and strategic development of the School.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead, inspire and develop the English Department, fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration and continuous improvement.
- Ensure all pupils benefit from an ambitious, broad and balanced English curriculum that promotes outstanding academic outcomes and a lifelong appreciation of reading, writing and communication.
- Manage departmental budgets, resources and facilities effectively, ensuring value for money and high-quality provision.
- Promote enrichment opportunities, competitions, events and wider literary experiences that enhance pupils’ engagement with English beyond the classroom.
We reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date and encourage early applications. This role may be eligible for Skilled Worker visa sponsorship, subject to the candidate meeting UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requirements and the School’s sponsorship criteria.
Safeguarding
Dulwich Prep & Senior is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to provide references from previous employers, undergo online checks, and complete an enhanced DBS check.
Skills
About Independent Schools Association (ISA)
We work with Heads from 674 of the best-accredited schools across the UK and beyond to: • provide information and advice (from HQ and Area Co-ordinators) • promote support networks and fellowship regionally, nationally and internationally • provide enrichment opportunities for pupils in Area and National Competitions for Sport, Drama and Art • arrange high-quality conferences and professional development courses to foster excellence in education • promote initiatives and provide access to a wide range of member services /resources • influence educational debate and promote independence and choice ISA schools/colleges value innovation and inspiration, building on the best traditions to promote integrity, high standards, industry and responsibility. We value the diversity of our schools which cover the complete age range and vary in size and nature, from early years to senior, boarding and day, all-through schools, co-educational and single gender, and specialist schools in the arts and music. All ISA schools/colleges share a desire to meet fully the needs of the young people in their care, treating everyone as individuals and providing a high-quality and personalised education. They encourage pupils to make the most of their talents, building confidence through academic achievement and offering a wide range of extra-curricular opportunities. ISA exists for its Members, recognising that high quality support is essential if Heads are to run successful schools. Please do contact us at any time.