Head of Food, Health and Social Care

Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is seeking to appoint a Head of Food, Health and Social Care to lead and develop a successful department. This is a key leadership role focused on securing high quality teaching, an ambitious curriculum and strong outcomes for all students. The postholder will be accountable for standards of teaching, learning, achievement and behaviour within the department, while also contributing to whole school improvement and curriculum development. The role includes teaching across the subject area and delivering highly effective and engaging lessons that inspire students and promote excellent progress. Key Responsibilities Lead the Food, Health and Social Care department to secure strong progress and attainment for all students, including those with SEND, disadvantaged students and the more able Ensure consistently high-quality teaching and learning across the department Develop and implement an ambitious, well-sequenced curriculum that meets the needs of all learners Monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching, learning and outcomes, providing coaching and support to colleagues Lead robust assessment practices, using data to inform teaching, intervention and improvement planning Establish and maintain high standards of behaviour for learning and student engagement Ensure safeguarding, health and safety and wellbeing are prioritised, particularly within practical learning environments Line manage and develop departmental colleagues, including appraisal and professional development Manage departmental resources effectively, including equipment and specialist facilities Promote enrichment opportunities such as trips, visits and extra-curricular activities The Ideal Candidate Qualified Teacher Status and a degree in a relevant subject area Strong subject knowledge across Food, Health and Social Care Proven ability to deliver highly effective teaching that secures strong student progress Experience of curriculum development and improving teaching and learning Ability to lead, coach and develop colleagues within a department Strong assessment and data analysis skills to inform interventions and drive improvement Highly effective classroom management with high expectations of behaviour for learning Commitment to inclusive practice and supporting all learners to achieve their potential High levels of professionalism, integrity and accountability 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