Teacher of English-Part Time-0.4

We wish to appoint an enthusiastic and well-qualified Teacher of English to start in September 2024. The role is to work 0.4 FTE and will include A level teaching but the exact details will be discussed at the interview stage.

The ideal candidate should be well-qualified and enthusiastic with the ability to teach English across the 11 – 18 age-range, with a focus on A level delivery.

The ideal candidate should have recent experience of teaching A level English Language and/or English literature as this will form a key part of the role.

Departmental Details  

Birkdale's English Department, a team of six subject specialists who enjoy an excellent working relationship, is based on two floors of the Johnson building. We follow our own curriculum for Key Stage 3, though this is closely linked to the national curriculum and provides a strong basis for GCSE teaching later on. Each year group studies a Shakespeare play, modern drama, poetry, non-fiction and whole novels. Though the study is rigorous, even at this level, we are keen to make every aspect of the course fun and engaging. Teachers have considerable freedom to devise their own schemes of work and bring to the subject their enthusiasm for specific writers and texts so anyone new to the department is able to make suggestions for texts and topics that can be added to the KS3 course.

Classes are largely mixed ability throughout Y7-Y11 (though, for timetabling purposes Y7 and Y8 are currently taught in science sets), so teachers are expected to support those who struggle with the subject, especially with regards to accuracy in written work, as well as challenge higher-achieving students.

AQA courses are currently followed for all external English examinations but we have recently introduced the Pearson Edexcel iGCSE for the first examination in 2025. The majority of candidates gain a minimum of grade 6 in both English Language and English Literature at GCSE, with a significant percentage gaining 7 grade and above.

At A-level, we teach AQA English Language and English Literature (spec B). We have one class for each subject per year, with numbers ranging between 5 and 12. The successful candidate will be expected to teach A Level, maintaining the strong academic standards of the department.

Members of the English department organise various theatre and study trips, as well as several clubs that run weekly. We are always keen to improve our teaching practice and actively seek the best ways to engage our students and deliver the courses effectively.

For more information, please visit our website Vacancies - Birkdale School

Application Procedure

 1. A cover letter addressed to Peter Harris, Head of no more than one side of A4 explaining why you would like this role and the skills and experiences you can bring to it (minimum font size of 11)

2. A completed Birkdale School application form which includes the names, addresses, e-mail addresses and telephone numbers of two referees

Closing date for applications – 17th May 2024 (12 noon)

Interviews – Week beginning 20th May 2024

Email your application to: Peter Harris, Head at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk by the closing date of Friday 17th May (12:00 noon).

For an informal discussion regarding the role and part time hours please do not hesitate to contact Ryan Becks, Deputy Head (Academic) on 07534 189418.

Applicants who do not provide a Covering Letter and Application Form, as stipulated, will unfortunately not be considered. If you have any difficulties in providing this, please do not hesitate to contact the HR team at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk

Pre-employment checks:

The Birkdale Family of Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and young people. All applicants must be willing to undergo the relevant pre-employment checks relevant to the role.

Current legislation applying to this post includes the The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2008 and the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996. Therefore, the successful candidate will be required to prove their eligibility to work in the UK and undergo appropriate criminal record checks, including an application for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.  Details of the documentation etc needed in connection with all the above requirements will be sent to the shortlisted candidates. Prior to taking up appointment, we will then request a declaration about medical fitness, and proof of qualifications from the successful candidate. 

Under the guidance set by KCSIE Birkdale School will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates.

Equal Opportunities Statement:

At the Birkdale Family of Schools, we strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all individuals. We are dedicated to promoting equality and diversity, providing a level playing field for all of our staff and pupils. We aim to foster an inclusive culture, where diversity is celebrated and where everyone feels empowered, and encouraged to reach their full potential. We are stronger together.