Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is seeking to appoint an ambitious, knowledgeable and inspirational Head of RE & Citizenship to lead and develop this important curriculum area within our school.

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher or existing middle leader to provide strategic and operational leadership across RE & Citizenship, securing high-quality teaching, learning and assessment, while ensuring all students make strong progress from their starting points. The successful candidate will play a key role in shaping an inclusive, aspirational and engaging curriculum that supports excellent outcomes for all learners.

As Head of RE & Citizenship, you will lead the development of a well-sequenced and ambitious curriculum that inspires curiosity, critical thinking and meaningful discussion. You will support and develop colleagues within the department, drive improvements in teaching and learning, and ensure assessment is used effectively to secure strong student progress and attainment.

You will promote a culture of high expectations, positive behaviour and inclusion, ensuring that all students, including disadvantaged students and those with SEND, are supported and challenged to achieve their full potential.

This role provides an excellent opportunity to contribute to whole-school improvement and collaborate across Maiden Erlegh Trust, sharing effective practice and supporting professional growth.

Key Responsibilities

·        Lead the strategic development of RE & Citizenship across the school

·        Develop and implement high-quality schemes of work, curriculum plans and resources

·        Model and promote excellent classroom practice across the department

·        Monitor teaching, learning and assessment to drive continuous improvement

·        Analyse student performance data and implement effective interventions

·        Support and develop colleagues through coaching, mentoring and professional dialogue

·        Promote high standards of behaviour, attendance and student engagement

·        Ensure inclusive provision that supports the needs of all learners

·        Contribute positively to whole-school and Trust improvement priorities

·        Provide enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities to deepen student engagement and subject understanding

The Ideal Candidate

We are looking for a committed and reflective practitioner who:

·        Holds Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent teaching qualification

·        Has strong subject knowledge in RE & Citizenship

·        Has the ability to lead, motivate and develop colleagues effectively

·        Demonstrates a strong understanding of curriculum development and assessment

·        Has high expectations for student achievement and behaviour

·        Is committed to inclusive practice and supporting the wellbeing of all students

·        Works collaboratively and positively as part of a wider team

·        Shares the values and ethos of Maiden Erlegh Trust

Maiden Erlegh School in Reading (MER)

Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is an ambitious, over-subscribed 11–16 secondary school in an urban context. The school is as committed to staff and student wellbeing as it is to delivering high-quality education.

Staff voice is central to shaping change and wellbeing priorities. The school benefits from excellent modern facilities and is proud of its vibrant, diverse student body who work hard and have high aspirations. A link to the school can be found here

About Maiden Erlegh Trust

Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools, including primary, secondary, special and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise.

We Aim High, Be Inclusive and Work Together. These values drive our focus on high-quality education for all through collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement.

Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high-quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities and our annual MET Staff Conference, a day that brings colleagues together to share best practice and learn from one another.

Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise, playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.

Further information about working with us, and insight from colleagues across the Trust, can be found here on our website.

Benefits of Working with Maiden Erlegh Trust

Staff wellbeing and professional development are central to how we work. Colleagues benefit from a wide range of opportunities and schemes, including :

Pension Scheme – Generous employer contributions through the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme

Annual Leave – Generous entitlement, increasing with length of service

ME Day – One additional day’s leave each year for a significant personal event

Professional Development – Extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities

Hybrid Working – Flexible working arrangements for eligible roles

Perkbox – Discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points

Wellbeing and Health – Free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)

Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes

Mental Health First Aid Support

Recognition and Community – Celebrating achievements and milestones across #TeamMET

Employee Referral Scheme

Working for our Trust means contributing to something larger by supporting the education and life chances of children and young people every day.

Additional Information

If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time.

Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references