Head of English

Cottenham Village College
Salary: MPS/UPS + TLR 2F
Contract: Permanent
Closing Date: 8th February 2026 (early applications encouraged)

Cottenham Village College (CVC) is a high-achieving, vibrant, and inclusive school committed to delivering an exceptional education for all students. With a strong culture of collaboration, high expectations, and a knowledge-rich curriculum, CVC is a place where both staff and students thrive. We are proud of our supportive community, our investment in staff development, and our determination to ensure every student achieves academic excellence.

Are you committed to ensuring every student achieves excellent progress, including those who may find English challenging?

Do you actively contribute to a collaborative culture where planning and resources are shared?

The Role

We are seeking an inspiring, knowledgeable, and forward-thinking Head of English to lead our successful English department. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious teacher to take on a significant leadership role and shape the future direction of English across the school.

As Head of English, you will:

• Lead, manage, and develop the English department.
• Be accountable for raising standards of student attainment and achievement within English.
• Monitor, track, and support student progress to ensure high-quality teaching and learning.
• Lead, train, support, and manage colleagues within the English team.
• Ensure the provision of an effective, engaging, and knowledge-rich English curriculum.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement and champion excellence in literacy.

What We’re Looking For

We are looking for a committed and dynamic leader who:

• Has a strong track record of excellent English teaching.
• Demonstrates passion, expertise, and a clear vision for a high-quality English curriculum.
• Can motivate, support, and develop others within the department.
• Is committed to raising achievement and securing outstanding outcomes for all students.
• Shows excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills.
• Is reflective, resilient, and engaged in ongoing professional learning.

Why Join Cottenham Village College?

We offer a working environment where teachers are trusted, supported, and developed. You’ll benefit from:

• A collaborative department with shared planning and fully resourced schemes of work
• A feedback-focused culture—no excessive marking
• Disruption-free classrooms and a clear, consistent behaviour system
• Instructional coaching rather than formal graded observations
• Opportunities to teach A-Level English (or adapt if needed)
• Access to NPQs and a clearly defined progression pathway
• Generous CPD and career development across the Astrea Cambridgeshire region
• Teachers’ Pension Scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, and free on-site parking

Interested in Applying?

If you are passionate about education, looking for a fresh opportunity, or simply want to make a positive impact, we would love to hear from you. Take a look at the job description and candidate pack to find out more about the role and how to apply or contact our recruitment team at recruitment@astreaacademytrust.org.

Closing Date:

The closing date for applications is 8th February 2026.

Commitment to Safeguarding and EDI:

Astrea Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory background checks, including references and an enhanced DBS check. We value diversity and welcome applications from underrepresented groups. As a Disability Confident employer, we provide reasonable adjustments throughout the recruitment process to ensure all candidates can fully demonstrate their abilities.

In line with Part 7 of the Immigration Act 2016 and the statutory Code of Practice, the Trust requires all public-facing post holders to demonstrate fluent English. Within a school setting, this applies to all roles that involve direct or indirect interaction with pupils, parents, or members of the public.

Flexible Interview Dates:

We reserve the right to close this vacancy early, so don't miss out on this exciting opportunity. Please note that interview dates are flexible, and the academy reserves the right to interview shortlisted candidates during the application window.

Ready to Make a Difference?

If you're ready to take the next step in your career and contribute to our dynamic and forward-thinking team, apply today and be a part of our mission to create a positive impact!