Curriculum Lead for History

An opportunity to lead History at River Academy, shaping a coherent, ambitious and inclusive curriculum that secures strong outcomes for all students. The role combines strategic curriculum leadership with high-quality classroom practice. You will lead curriculum design, drive standards in teaching and assessment, and develop a culture of high expectations, engagement and achievement across the department. River Academy opened in September 2024 with 180 students and seven students in its resource base. From September 2026, student numbers will increase to 541 as the school welcomes its next cohort of Year 7 students. The school is currently heavily oversubscribed, with waiting lists in all year groups, River Academy is known for its high expectations and high levels of progress. Last year, in NGRT reading tests, Year 7 progressed from the 53rd percental to the 72nd percentile across the year. Similarly, 44 students in Year 7 achieved awards in the UK Junior Maths Challenge, which is way above the statistical expectation. On weekly basis River Academy is first placed in the entire country for Sparx Maths and Sparx Reader completion rates demonstrating a whole school commitment to ensure no learner falls behind. Key Responsibilities Lead the development, implementation and review of an ambitious History curriculum aligned with Trust expectations Ensure consistently high standards of teaching, learning and assessment across the department Monitor and evaluate student progress, using data to inform interventions and reduce gaps in achievement Oversee curriculum planning, schemes of work and enrichment opportunities Lead and line manage the History team, including performance management and professional development Support students who are not yet fluent readers through targeted curriculum and intervention strategies Contribute to whole school and Trust curriculum development and improvement priorities Ensure compliance with safeguarding, behaviour, equality and health and safety requirements The Ideal Candidate Qualified Teacher Status with a strong academic background in History Proven ability to deliver high-quality teaching and secure strong student outcomes Experience or readiness to lead curriculum development and implementation Strong understanding of assessment, data analysis and intervention strategies Ability to lead, coach and develop colleagues effectively Commitment to inclusion, student wellbeing and high expectations for all Strong organisational, communication and leadership skills About the School River Academy is a purpose-built secondary school serving the growing need for school places in the Reading area. Located on Richfield Avenue, the site includes specialist teaching facilities across the curriculum, including a hall, activity studio, learning resource centre, drama studio and sports studio. Classrooms are fully equipped with interactive screens and visualisers. The sch