Full job description Head of Religious Studies
Bradford, West Yorkshire
Leadership Scale L1 – L5 (£50,025 - £55,209)
Start Date: September 2026
Full-Time | Permanent
Ready for a Challenge That Makes a Difference?We are seeking an exceptional and resilient Head of Religious Studies to join a secondary school in Bradford from September 2026.
This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced Religious Studies teacher or current middle leader looking to take the next step in their career. The school serves a diverse community and offers a role that is both challenging and incredibly rewarding. We are looking for someone who thrives in a fast-paced environment, has high expectations for all students, and is committed to making a genuine impact on young people’s lives.
As Head of Religious Studies, you will lead the department with energy, vision, and determination, ensuring students receive an engaging and ambitious curriculum that develops their understanding of religion, philosophy, ethics, and the wider world.
Key Responsibilities Lead and manage the Religious Studies department across Key Stages 3 and 4 (and Key Stage 5 where applicable)
Drive improvements in student attainment, progress, and engagement
Develop and implement a challenging and inspiring curriculum
Monitor teaching and learning to ensure consistently high standards
Support, mentor, and develop colleagues within the department
Analyse performance data and implement effective intervention strategies
Promote excellent behaviour, attendance, and student outcomes
Contribute positively to whole-school improvement priorities
The Ideal Candidate Will Have Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
A degree in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, or a related subject
Proven experience teaching Religious Studies within UK secondary schools
Strong leadership qualities and the ability to motivate both staff and students
A track record of raising standards and improving outcomes
Excellent behaviour management skills
Resilience, determination, and a commitment to achieving the very best for every student
A passion for Religious Studies and its role in developing thoughtful, reflective young people
What the School Offers A rewarding opportunity to make a genuine difference in students’ lives
Supportive senior leadership and committed colleagues
Opportunities for professional development and career progression
A diverse and vibrant school community
The chance to lead a department and shape its future direction
Leadership Scale L1 – L5
About the SchoolThis is a school that presents both challenge and opportunity. Staff are committed to raising aspirations, improving outcomes, and creating a culture where every student can succeed. The role will suit someone who embraces challenge, enjoys building positive relationships, and takes pride in seeing the tangible impact of their work on students and the wider school community.
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ’Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
For details of our privacy policy, please visit the Teaching Personnel website.