Director of Humanities (History Specialism) – Independent School – Birmingham

A prestigious independent school in Birmingham is seeking an experienced and visionary Director of Humanities (History Specialism) to lead its thriving faculty. This is a senior middle leadership opportunity within a school renowned for academic excellence, strong pastoral care and a culture that values scholarship and character equally. Humanities subjects are central to the school’s identity. History, in particular, enjoys strong uptake at GCSE and A-Level, with students regularly achieving top grades and progressing to competitive university courses in History, Politics, Law and related disciplines. The School This co-educational independent school blends historic architecture with modern teaching facilities, set within attractive grounds close to central Birmingham. The school educates pupils from KS3 through to Sixth Form, offering small class sizes and an intellectually ambitious curriculum. The school places emphasis on: • Academic rigour and subject scholarship • Analytical thinking and structured debate • University preparation and enrichment • Strong pastoral systems within a house structure Students are articulate, engaged and accustomed to high academic expectations. The Role As Director of Humanities, you will oversee History, Geography and related disciplines, setting the strategic direction of the faculty while maintaining direct leadership of History. Your responsibilities will include: • Leading curriculum development across Humanities • Maintaining and raising standards at GCSE and A-Level • Line managing Heads of Subject within the faculty • Driving consistency in assessment and moderation • Supporting UCAS preparation and Oxbridge guidance • Teaching History across KS3–KS5 The History curriculum is broad and intellectually rich, encouraging critical analysis of primary sources, historiography and extended academic writing. The Faculty The Humanities faculty is established, collaborative and academically strong. Teachers are subject specialists who value deep content knowledge and discussion-based learning. Department strengths include: • Strong GCSE and A-Level outcomes • Dedicated Humanities classrooms • Academic societies and lecture series • Educational visits both nationally and internationally • Clear progression from KS3 enquiry to Sixth Form scholarship The school encourages independent research and extension work, particularly at Sixth Form level. Wider Contribution As a senior faculty leader, you will play an active role in the broader life of the school, including: • Academic enrichment programmes • Public speaking and debating initiatives • Pastoral tutoring within the house system • Representation at open events and academic showcases Leadership in an independent setting requires visibility, engagement and commitment beyond the classroom. Who We’re Looking For The successful candidate will: • Hold QTS or equivalent experience within a high-performing or independent setting • Have a strong academic background in History • Demonstrate successful leadership experience within a department • Show a proven record of excellent examination outcomes • Be articulate, strategic and collaborative Experience teaching A-Level History is essential. What’s On Offer • Competitive independent school salary with leadership enhancement • Small classes and high-achieving students • Generous CPD and leadership development opportunities • Free on-site parking and term-time meals • A collegiate and intellectually ambitious working environment This is an exceptional opportunity to lead Humanities within a distinguished Birmingham independent school that values academic excellence, professional trust and long-term leadership development.