Head of Religious Studies - Step Up into Leadership Start Date: September 2025 Salary: Competitive Independent School Pay Scale (MP6 - UP1) Responsibility Allowances Are you an experienced Religious Studies or Philosophy teacher ready to take the next step in your career? A prestigious independent school in Surrey is looking for an ambitious and passionate teacher to become Head of Religious Studies. This is the perfect opportunity for someone currently acting as a second in department or an experienced teacher looking for their first leadership role. Why This Role? ✅ Step up into leadership with full support from a well-established team. ✅ Lead a thriving Religious Studies department, delivering AQA GCSE (Catholic Christianity & Judaism). ✅ Develop your leadership skills while mentoring and managing a team. ✅ Enjoy fantastic benefits, including a 16.4% pension contribution, free lunches, and top-tier sports facilities. ✅ Work in a school with an outstanding academic reputation and excellent staff retention (80%). The Role: ✔ Lead and manage the Religious Studies department, inspiring both staff and students. ✔ Oversee the teaching of RE from Year 4 to GCSE, ensuring high-quality curriculum delivery. ✔ Support and guide your team, helping them grow professionally. ✔ Work closely with the Senior Leadership Team and Chaplain to enhance the school's spiritual and pastoral life. ✔ Take part in curriculum planning, departmental administration, and whole-school initiatives. Who We're Looking For: A strong RS or Philosophy teacher with GCSE teaching experience. Someone with ambition and leadership potential - prior HoD experience is not essential. An educator who is engaged, dynamic, and passionate about their subject. A candidate who understands Catholic education A team player who is ready to mentor colleagues and shape the future of the department. What's on Offer? ✨ Independent School salary Two responsibility points (£1,450 each). ✨ Generous pension contribution (16.4%) and free daily lunches. ✨ Access to top-tier facilities (gym, swimming pool, squash courts). ✨ Excellent holiday entitlement - up to 8 weeks off in the summer. ✨ A welcoming and supportive school community with outstanding career progression opportunities. This is a fantastic opportunity for an RS or Philosophy teacher who wants to take the next step into leadership. Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Business in relation to this role