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English Teacher

Job description

English Teacher - Secondary School | Witham, Essex

Location: Witham
Contract Type: Full-time, Contract
Start Date: April 2026
Suitable for: Early Career Teachers (ECTs) and experienced teachers

About the School

Our successful and inclusive secondary school in Witham, Essex is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed Teacher of English to join our well-established English department. The school prides itself on high standards of teaching and learning, a strong pastoral system, and a supportive working environment for staff.

The English department plays a central role in the academic success of the school and consistently achieves strong outcomes in both English Language and English Literature at GCSE. Staff work collaboratively to develop engaging and challenging lessons that inspire students to read widely, think critically, and communicate effectively.

The school serves the local community of Witham and surrounding areas within Essex. It is easily accessible via road and rail, including services on the Great Eastern Main Line connecting the town to London and Colchester.

The Role

The successful candidate will teach English across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, with the possibility of teaching Key Stage 5 depending on experience and departmental needs. You will deliver high-quality lessons that engage students of all abilities and help them develop confidence in reading, writing, and speaking.

The role also involves contributing to the department's curriculum development, supporting literacy initiatives across the school, and taking part in enrichment opportunities such as book clubs, theatre visits, and creative writing competitions.

Key Responsibilities

  • Plan and deliver high-quality English Language and Literature lessons in line with the National Curriculum

  • Prepare schemes of work and lesson plans that support student progress and engagement

  • Assess, monitor, and record student progress, providing clear feedback to support improvement

  • Differentiate teaching to meet the needs of all learners, including SEND and high-attaining students

  • Maintain a positive classroom environment that encourages participation and respect

  • Work collaboratively with colleagues within the English department and across the wider school

  • Participate in departmental meetings, parents' evenings, and school events

  • Contribute to extracurricular activities that promote literacy and creativity

Person Specification

Essential Requirements

  • Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent teaching qualification

  • A degree in English or a closely related subject

  • Knowledge of the UK National Curriculum for English

  • Strong classroom management skills

  • Excellent communication and organisational abilities

  • Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Desirable Qualities

  • Experience teaching GCSE English Language and Literature

  • Experience with Key Stage 5 teaching

  • A passion for literature, reading promotion, and creative writing

  • Ability to contribute to whole-school literacy initiatives

What the School Offers

  • A welcoming and supportive staff team

  • A well-resourced English department with access to modern teaching technology

  • Structured mentoring and support for Early Career Teachers (ECTs)

  • High-quality Continuing Professional Development (CPD) opportunities

  • Opportunities for career progression and leadership development

  • A strong focus on staff wellbeing and work-life balance

  • Access to staff benefits and pension schemes