Second in Department - English

Safeguarding Commitment

Dubai British School Jumeirah Park is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting student welfare. All staff are expected to uphold high standards of child protection practices, and all successful applicants will undergo comprehensive background checks

Job Purpose

The Second in Department for English plays a key leadership role in supporting the delivery of an outstanding academic programme, aligned with the KHDA framework for Outstanding education. Working closely with the Head of Department, this role contributes to shaping a culture of high expectations, inclusive practice, and academic ambition. The Second in Department leads by example, supports the development of colleagues, and plays a pivotal part in ensuring the department consistently delivers excellent outcomes for students.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum and Pedagogical Support

• Support the development, review, and implementation of a coherent and challenging English curriculum aligned with the British National Curriculum and school vision.

• Contribute to the design and refinement of schemes of work that promote progression, literacy, critical thinking, and creativity.

• Model high-quality teaching and support the Head of Department in embedding effective pedagogical approaches across the team.

Student Progress and Data

• Work with the Head of Department to analyse student progress data across key stages, identifying trends and supporting staff to address underachievement through targeted interventions.

• Lead small-scale data projects or groups (e.g. targeted cohorts, focus on writing, stretch and challenge) and monitor their impact.

Teaching and Learning Development

• Support the professional development of departmental staff through mentoring, coaching, and peer observation.

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of department CPD and ensure best practice is shared across the team.

• Promote a reflective teaching culture where all staff are committed to continual improvement.

Quality Assurance

• Assist in the quality assurance of teaching and learning through book looks, learning walks, and lesson observations.

• Ensure consistency in assessment practices, feedback, and lesson planning in line with departmental and whole-school expectations.

Operational Support

• Assist with the organisation of timetables, intervention groups, resource management, and the maintenance of a purposeful learning environment.

• Take responsibility for specific departmental logistics (e.g. key stage coordination, literacy initiatives, KS3 reading strategy, or library liaison).

Examinations and Assessment

• Support the Head of Department in overseeing internal and external assessments, including preparation for

• GCSE and NEA processes.

• Ensure assessment data is accurately recorded, tracked, and used to inform teaching and intervention strategies.

• Transition and Curriculum Continuity

• Contribute to transition planning between key stages and support the alignment of learning from KS3 to KS4 and beyond.

• Play an active role in supporting students’ preparation for A-Level English, contributing to Sixth Form taster sessions or enrichment.

• Student Engagement and Culture

• Champion a love of English through enrichment activities such as competitions, trips, clubs, and student-led initiatives.

• Promote student voice and leadership within the department, helping to create an inclusive and engaging English learning culture.

Communication and Collaboration

• Maintain strong working relationships with parents, pastoral leads, and wider curriculum colleagues.

• Deputise for the Head of Department when required and represent the department at relevant meetings.

Person Specification

Qualifications:

A degree in English or a related field and a recognised teaching qualification.

Experience:

• Strong classroom practitioner with a record of securing excellent student outcomes.

• Experience in a leadership or whole-school initiative role is desirable.

Skills and Attributes:

• Confident in the use of data to inform planning and intervention.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to motivate others.

• Organised, proactive, and adaptable to the needs of a dynamic school environment.

• A reflective practitioner with a growth mindset, committed to professional development and collaborative working.