Lead Practitioner – Whole-School Literacy Development

Noel‑Baker Academy is a vibrant, inclusive and ambitious school where every pupil is entitled to an exceptional education. As part of the L.E.A.D. Academy Trust, we are committed to high expectations, strong relationships and a belief that outstanding schooling is the right of every child.

We are seeking an exceptional English practitioner to lead whole-school literacy and drive high-quality teaching and learning across the curriculum. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious, evidence-informed teacher who is passionate about improving outcomes for all pupils through outstanding literacy practice.

The Role

As Lead Practitioner for Whole-School Literacy, you will play a pivotal role in shaping and embedding a coherent literacy strategy that raises standards of reading, writing, oracy and vocabulary across all subjects. Your expertise will support colleagues at every level to refine their practice, strengthen disciplinary literacy, and ensure that high expectations for literacy are consistently upheld.

You will:

• Model exemplary classroom practice and lead high-quality demonstration lessons

• Coach, mentor and support teachers across the academy

• Lead the development of literacy pedagogy, assessment and adaptive teaching

• Work closely with the English Curriculum Leader and the Senior Leadership Team

• Deliver targeted CPD and contribute to whole-school teaching and learning priorities

• Use assessment and data intelligently to identify gaps, inform interventions and improve outcomes

• Champion literacy as a driver of academic success and personal development

This role allows you to extend your influence beyond your own classroom while remaining firmly rooted in teaching and learning. You will be central to our mission of ensuring every pupil receives an outstanding education, regardless of background or starting point.

About You

We are looking for an outstanding English teacher with:

• A proven track record of excellent classroom practice and strong pupil outcomes

• Deep subject knowledge and a strong understanding of effective literacy pedagogy

• The ability to coach, influence and inspire colleagues

• Experience using assessment and evidence to drive improvement

• A commitment to inclusion, high expectations and removing barriers to learning

• Emotional resilience, integrity and a collaborative approach

• A passion for literacy and its impact on pupils’ life chances

Experience in leading literacy initiatives, coaching colleagues or contributing to whole-school improvement is desirable.

Why Join Noel-Baker Academy?

We are a vibrant, values-driven school and a proud member of the L.E.A.D. Academy Trust. We believe that outstanding education is the right of every child, and we are relentless in our pursuit of excellence.

As part of our team, you will benefit from:

• A supportive, ambitious and collaborative staff culture

• High-quality professional development through the L.E.A.D. Teaching School Hub

• Opportunities to develop leadership and coaching expertise

• A strong focus on evidence-informed practice

You will also have access to a comprehensive staff benefits package, including:

• 24/7 online GP service

• Free physiotherapy

• Employee assistance programme

• Pension scheme with generous employer contributions

• Discounts through Blue Light Card, Teacher Perks and more

Our location offers excellent transport links, a welcoming community and easy access to the Peak District, making it a fantastic place to live and work.

We warmly encourage visits. To arrange an informal conversation with the Headteacher or a tour of the academy, please contact vacancies@noelbakeracademy.co.uk.

For further information and to apply, please click here.

Closing date: 9am on 26 January 2026.

Interview date: 30 January 2026.

Noel-Baker Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to enhanced DBS checks and rigorous pre-employment screening.