Head of Computer Science

Arden is a truly exceptional school at the heart of the community and the peak of academic excellence. Situated just minutes off Junction 5 of the M42 and only 3 miles from the town of Solihull, visitors are astounded by our confident and articulate students. Our recent Ofsted report spoke about the culture of ‘exceptionally high aspirations that permeate the school and ‘the positive relationships between staff and pupils’ where ‘teachers teach individuals, not classes’. As an innovative school always striving for better there is a constant drive to achieve maximum personal and academic potential and as part of a Multi Academy Trust there is the opportunity for exceptional training and the sharing of knowledge and ideas.

We are looking to appoint a passionate and highly driven Head of Computer Science who has the vision and ambition to lead this department. The successful candidate will have excellent subject knowledge and be able to motivate students through inspirational, personalised teaching. This exciting opportunity has arisen following the promotion of the current postholder.

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented teacher to join a thriving school and work with students who are committed to their learning and passionate about their development. The successful applicant will lead a department of two specialist colleagues who are committed to ensuring that each student achieves their full potential academically and personally. This post is open to current Heads of Department or those aspiring to become Head of Department.

The opportunity for personal development and progression at Arden is enormous. An active commitment to staff development through a strong and consistent focus and dialogue around teaching & learning pedagogy makes this an ideal position for candidates committed to being the best practitioner they can be. Middle leader development continues to be a core focus of our school and our Trust. We run a highly regarded Middle leader development training programme across the trust where our Middle leaders work with senior leaders from across the trust and middle leader colleagues in all of our schools to collaborate, consider aspects of leadership, and share best practice. Excellent line management ensures this position is well supported and ensuring that middle leaders are given every opportunity to develop and showcase their drive and leadership skills.

The ability to teach either Creative iMedia or Computer Science to GCSE is essential and delivering to A Level in Computing or Level 3 IT Award is desirable. The department collectively provide an excellent level of support and collaborative development through sharing of best practice and an open-door culture.

The department currently offers a range of courses. Students are offered Computer Science at both GCSE and A Level, Level 2 in Creative Technologies and Level 3 IT Award.

In every way, the Computer Science Department mirrors the aims and beliefs of the school. All staff work hard, supported by a committed leadership team, to provide a safe and encouraging environment for learning. The recent Ofsted report highlighted the fact that ‘Leaders have planned a curriculum that is ambitious for all pupils’. It is true that Arden pupils love to acquire new knowledge and skills; our teachers relish the opportunity to deliver engaging, challenging lessons to committed pupils, supported by caring families.

The school has an excellent record of success at GCSE and A Level.  

GCSEs - In summer 2022, the schools Progress 8 score was 0.78 with an Attainment 8 score of 62.02 which shows the excellent attainment of our school. 74% of our students achieved a Grade 5 in both English and Maths, with 90% achieving this at Grade 4. More than 40% of the GCSE grades awarded were grade 7 and above, with 24% being awarded at Grade 8 & 9.

A Levels - In 2022, students achieved an average grade of a B+. Our average points score of 42.52 demonstrates the excellent outcomes that our students achieve. 45% of grades awarded were A*/A and 76.1% of Grades awarded were A*-B.

Children of staff who are permanently employed at Arden Academy are eligible for a ‘staff’ priority for our main school and Sixth Form admissions (please see Admissions on our school website for full details).

Opportunities don’t arise very often to teach at a school like Arden and due to the success of our professional development programmes and a commitment to developing our staff, it is rare for leadership positions of this type to become available.  

In return, we can offer you:

A positive and innovative learning culture supported by students, staff, parents and governors.

Enthusiastic students who enjoy learning and engage positively in all aspects of school life.

As part of a Multi Academy Trust, access to high quality continuing professional development and the opportunity for personal growth and development.

Commitment to Middle Leader Development through:

• Middle Leader cross-trust training
• Middle Leader progress meetings with Associate Head teacher and Executive Head teacher
• Middle Leader support through highly effective SLT Line Manager

A collaborative and supportive attitude amongst staff which promotes a sense of teamwork and unity.

A Senior Leadership team who is committed to promoting the best environment and out comes for staff and students.

Use of your own personal laptop

Teacher Pension

Cycle to Work scheme

Outstanding school catering provision

Further details are available to download below or from our school website via the Apply button. Application forms should be completed in full and attached to a letter of application. CVs will not be accepted. Please address all correspondence to Mr D Warwood, Associate Headteacher.  

Closing date: Monday 9th January 2023 (9.00am)

Interview date: Friday 13th January 2023

Arden Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all its staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS Disclosure.