Head of Classics ( Maternity Cover)

Channing School is seeking to appoint an outstanding and inspiring Head of Classics (1-year maternity cover) to lead our highly successful and well-established Classics Department from September 2026. This full-time role offers the opportunity to teach across Key Stage 3, GCSE and A level within a high-achieving and deeply supportive all-girls environment, while providing strategic leadership to a thriving and ambitious department.

At Channing, we believe that the study of the classical world enables young women to explore the foundations of language, literature, history and culture, fostering intellectual curiosity and critical thinking. Classics is a flourishing subject, with students achieving excellent outcomes at both GCSE and A level, and many continuing their studies at university. More importantly, pupils develop analytical skills, cultural awareness and confidence,  qualities that extend far beyond the classroom.

The Classics Department is a dynamic and collaborative team of four teachers, offering Latin from Year 7, with Classical Civilisation and Ancient Greek introduced from Year 9. Teaching is enriched through a wide range of resources and approaches, including the use of iPads, visualisers and virtual reality. Pupils benefit from a broad co-curricular programme including clubs, competitions, lectures and trips to institutions such as the British Museum, as well as overseas visits. The successful candidate will build on this strong foundation, maintaining high standards while further developing the department’s academic and co-curricular provision.

As Head of Department, the successful candidate will provide clear and inspiring leadership, shaping the vision and strategic direction of Classics in line with the school’s wider educational priorities. They will lead and support colleagues, promote excellence in teaching and learning, and ensure a stimulating and intellectually rigorous curriculum that enables every pupil to thrive. This role requires a balance of subject passion and collaborative leadership, contributing positively to the wider life of the school.

For further information, please refer to the Job Description document provided.

Hours: 

Full time

Start date: 

September 2026 (maternity cover, fixed-term until end of leave)

Salary & Benefits:

• Competitive salary, dependent on qualifications and experience
• Enrolment into the APTIS pension scheme (10% employer contribution, 2% employee contribution)
• Laptop and iPad provided
• Free lunch and daily refreshments
• Use of school sports facilities when available
• Annual flu vaccination and Employee Assistance Programme
• Extensive CPD and INSET opportunities, with scope for professional progression

How to Apply

Please complete the TES application form by clicking on Apply below. CVs will not be accepted in place of a completed application form.

Deadline for applications: 12pm, Thursday 16 April 2026 

Interviews: Monday 20 April 2026

Other Internal Opportunities

From September 2026, there will also be additional internal opportunities available, as follows:

• Head of House - Goodwin

• More Able Coordinator

• Overseas Universities Applications Coordinator

Additional job descriptions can be provided for these roles and candidates are encouraged to express their interest within their cover letter or at interview.

Safeguarding commitment

Channing School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The school follows a formal recruitment procedure in line with DfE guidance on Safeguarding Children and Safer Recruitment in Education and the school’s Child Protection Policy. A copy of this procedure is available on request.

Subject to statutory provisions, no applicant will be treated less favourably than another on the grounds of a protected characteristic as defined in the Equality Act. Ability to perform the job will be the primary consideration.

In line with our Safer Recruitment Policy, all shortlisted candidates will be subject to online searches including social media and third party Safehire.