Head of English

Required January 2022

Our School 

Falcons Prep – Richmond has the capacity to educate 200 boys from ages 4 – 13. The school, which is set in leafy Richmond on the edge of Old Deer Park, combines a warm and nurturing environment with excellent resources, a commitment to teamwork and the professional development of staff.  

Falcons is an ambitious school with a strong set of values focused on providing every boy with the opportunity to reach their full potential. Nurturing a love of learning, we ensure that every boy acquires and secures the skills to become effective lifelong learners, fit not only for the world we live in today, but for a future yet to be determined. Adventure, curiosity, kindness and reflection lie at the core of what we do. We place equal importance on his social, moral and cultural growth. At all times the boys are expected to uphold the ethos of the school in a positive manner and are proud ambassadors; not only on site but when representing Falcons at outside events, activities and fixtures. We foster a desire to learn by offering a curriculum that has breadth, balance and challenge. Above all, we encourage academic endeavour and that each boy strives, gives of his best, and achieves his goals.  

At Falcons we maintain high expectations and place a strong emphasis on acknowledging the positive ways in which the boys conduct themselves and interact with others. Trust, honesty, good manners, a hardworking attitude and respect for the environment and above all, each other, are intrinsic in all that we teach. We place great emphasis on the strength of our community and the boys being considerate, courteous and tolerant of the needs of others. We are a progressive and vibrant school that focuses on raising the aspirations and releasing the potential of every young person in our care. In this environment, they have the opportunity to grow academically, on the sports field, artistically, on stage, and to take leadership responsibilities in many different areas.  Life at Falcons Prep - Richmond is a unique experience.

What we can offer you 

• The opportunity to join a very successful team of committed and highly qualified teachers. 
• A supportive environment where the work-life balance of teachers is important. 
• Outstanding facilities and resources to support learning and teaching. 
• A forward-thinking, can do, risk-taking, mistake celebrating community where anything is possible! 
• An opportunity to grow as a leader and access further professional development opportunities both in school and within the APG group.
• A bespoke induction and training programme with built-in support and mentoring.
• A strong Staff Wellbeing Programme (bike to work scheme/additional healthcare support/staff events/breakfasts/socials).
• The opportunity to be part of Falcons Prep at its most pivotal and exciting time.

The Role 

We are looking for a passionate, innovative and dynamic leader of English to join our school community and continue the recent growth and success of the Department. The Head of English is responsible specifically for the leadership and development of English throughout the school, ensuring that each pupil is positively encouraged to develop his potential to the full. The Head of English will be expected to work closely with colleagues in the department and across other curriculum areas. 

You will demonstrate the skills, expertise and passion to inspire and encourage the staff within your department and strive for excellence in all areas. This post requires an educationalist who is clear-sighted and a person of integrity. S/he must have a good level of technical skills and the desire to reflect and adapt. An excellent educational understanding of key issues within the teaching of English as well as knowledge of the new CE curriculum is desirable. 

This is an exciting opportunity for a well-qualified, imaginative, driven teacher to deliver outstanding learning and teaching in English. The ability to effectively track the academic progress of each child and to communicate articulately with parents is essential. S/he understands school protocols and policies, and is willing to make a full contribution to school life. S/he has a good working knowledge of child protection issues and safeguarding and undertakes the appropriate training, as s/he will liaise with the Designated Safeguarding Lead on related and highly confidential matters. S/he must be friendly, approachable, discrete and supportive.   

It is a role that requires excellent communication skills and a high level of commitment and enthusiasm. If successful you will not only work to improve and develop the schools existing English provision but also help to shape and implement an exciting and inspiring English curriculum as part of the schools extension of a new Lower School (Reception – Year 2).  

Applications are welcomed from existing and aspiring Head’s of Department. 

It is a significant role in Falcons’ strong and committed community and is line managed by the SLT with whom s/he works closely and professionally.

Safeguarding

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Equal Opportunities

We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.

Application Process

Please click here to begin your application via the APG Careers Site.

Applications should reach the school no later than Friday 25 June, 12pm.

Interviews will take place w/c 28 June.

There may be an initial virtual first round before successful candidates are invited onsite.