Head of Religious Studies (HOD RS)

High Wycombe | Secondary School Setting
September Start | UPS + TLR Available

Supply Desk is working in partnership with a secondary school in High Wycombe to appoint an experienced and motivated Head of Religious Studies for a September start. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious RE specialist to lead a key Humanities discipline and play a central role in shaping curriculum development, academic standards, and student engagement.

This role would suit either an established Head of Department or a strong Religious Studies practitioner ready to take the next step into middle leadership.

The Role

As Head of Religious Studies, you will be responsible for the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the RE department, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning across all key stages.

Key responsibilities include:

• Leading curriculum planning, sequencing, and assessment within Religious Studies
• Raising standards of teaching, learning, and pupil outcomes across the department
• Line-managing and supporting RE teaching staff
• Monitoring student progress through data analysis and implementing targeted interventions
• Managing departmental resources and contributing to budget planning
• Supporting whole-school priorities and wider school improvement strategies

You will work closely with senior leaders to ensure the RE curriculum is inclusive, thought-provoking, and aligned with national expectations.

Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS or equivalent)
• Strong subject knowledge in Religious Studies (Philosophy & Ethics desirable)
• Proven experience teaching RE at secondary level
• Evidence of leadership or departmental responsibility (formal or informal)
• Strong organisational, leadership, and communication skills
• Commitment to high expectations, inclusion, and positive behaviour management
• Availability to begin in September in High Wycombe

Previous experience as a Head of Department, Second in Department, or Subject Lead is highly desirable.

What We Offer

• UPS salary scale plus TLR, reflective of leadership responsibility
• Long-term or permanent leadership opportunities
• Support from experienced, local education consultants
• Access to leadership and subject-specific CPD
• 24/7 CPD Learning Hub covering safeguarding, behaviour management, and wellbeing
• Clear progression routes into senior leadership roles

How to Apply

If you are a Religious Studies specialist seeking a leadership role in High Wycombe from September, we would be pleased to hear from you.

Telephone: 01494 840527 | 01753 465 256
24/7 Support: 07435 552169

All successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced DBS check and meet Safer Recruitment standards.

Contact information

Andre Cruickshank