Curriculum Leader of English

‘Do you have an unwavering focus on achievement to ensure young people receive the absolute best education? If your answer is a resounding 'Yes,' then you might be the ideal candidate we're searching for.’ 

Pontefract Academies Trust 

Pontefract Academies Trust is a cross phase Multi-Academy Trust comprising of nine schools: seven primaries and two 11-16 secondary schools. Our mission is running high quality, high achieving schools that give our children and young people the chance in life they deserve. 

The Trust is renowned for its commitment to excellence and has achieved remarkable success. Our primary outcomes at Key Stage 2 now sit 27% above the national average, with five out of the seven in the top 5% in the country for combined outcomes. Two of our primary schools – De Lacy and Carleton Park – were recognised as Outstanding across all areas in their 2024 Ofsted inspections. 

Our secondary schools Key Stage 4 results for English, Maths and Science are well above national average and both schools had successful visits from Ofsted in 2024 and 2022. 

The King’s School 

The King’s School, part of Pontefract Academies Trust, boasts a rich heritage and a commitment to every student's potential. In 2023, our progress outcomes ranked us in the top 15% of secondary schools nationally, affirming our dedication to excellence. This accolade also secured our position as the third top-performing high school in the Wakefield district. Regardless of background or ability, every student is valued and placed at the heart of our mission. Converting potential into reality isn't just a goal; it's a promise we fulfil daily, ensuring that each individual achieves their highest aspirations. 

About the role 

We’re seeking an enthusiastic and committed Curriculum Leader of English to become part of our team at The King’s School.   The successful candidate will be responsible for strategically leading the direction and development of the English department in accordance with the aims and objectives of the school.  They will be accountable for the operation and effectiveness of the policies and procedures needed to achieve these aims and objectives, and the progress of staff and pupils within the English department. 

The successful candidate will: 

• Be a strong experienced or aspiring leader committed to education 
• Have fresh ideas and will review and challenge current provision 
• Have the opportunity to develop their leadership skills 
• Bring considerable passion and high energy to the role 
• Embrace the opportunity to work with like-minded individuals to make a real lasting and positive impact on our community 

The role is a 1 FTE, permanent contract with a start date of 1st September 2025. 

For more information regarding this exciting opportunity at The King’s School, please read the attached candidate pack. 

What can we offer you?  

We’re passionate about employee benefits at Pontefract Academies Trust, offering the following as standard to all:  

• Exciting career and leadership pathways supported by outstanding CPD opportunities 
• Everyday Development (EDD) Framework, including goals that are personal and flexible and professional development days to self-reflect and invest in personal development to aid staff engagement, boost wellbeing and enhance employee skills 
• Energise and Engage Weeks throughout the year, where no meetings take place. These dedicated weeks prioritise personal professional development, support work-life balance, and allow for an early finish on designated days 
• Generous employer pension (Teachers Pension) 
• Laptop 
• Fantastic family friendly policies with a focus on employee work/life balance 
• Cycle to work scheme 
• Blue Light card 
• Discounted gym membership   
• Free eyecare via Specsavers  
• Childcare vouchers  
• Employee wellbeing programme (including physiotherapy, personal or professional concerns on legal, health, finance, wellbeing, and other matters)  
• Discounts at numerous retailers including O2 
• Free flu vaccinations. 

School Visits 

Potential candidates are welcome to visit our school. This is a great opportunity to explore our facilities, meet our dedicated staff, and get a feel for the vibrant community we have built here. We look forward to welcoming you and answering any questions you may have. 

Key Dates 

• Application Deadline: 10:00am, Monday 19th May 2025 
• Interview Date: w/c 19th May 2025 
• Start Date: Monday 01 September 2025 

Application Process 

• Complete application form via our website 
• Complete the attached examinations results form that is required for this role 
• Attach the document in the ‘Additional Information & Documents’ section of your application within SamPeople Recruit 

Important Links 

Pontefract Academies Trust Website  

Trust Strategic Plan for 2025 to 2028 

The King's School Website 

Contact Information 

• 01977 601701  
• recruitment@kings.patrust.org.uk 

We are an equal opportunities employer, welcoming applications from everyone.  

The Pontefract Academies Trust is wholly committed to the safeguarding of all children and young people whilst promoting their welfare.  

Any offer of employment will be subject to receipt of a satisfactory DBS Enhanced Disclosure and pre-employment checks (including online checks). Shortlisted applicants will also be asked to provide a self-declaration form.