Job title: Head of History
Job type: Contract
Emp type: Full-time
Industry: Secondary
Functional Expertise: Head of Department / Middle Leader Teacher
Pay interval: Hourly
Pay rate: Negotiable
Location: Lewisham
Job published: 24-09-2026
Job ID: 124721

Job Description

Head of History | Lewisham

Are you an experienced History Teacher ready to take the next step in your career? This Head of History opportunity in Lewisham offers the chance to lead a secondary History department, shape curriculum provision and support colleagues to deliver consistently strong teaching across the subject, with the opportunity to move from temporary to permanent with the school.

The school is looking for a Head of History with strong subject knowledge and a clear understanding of what makes an effective History curriculum. You will lead the department across KS3 and KS4, support colleagues with planning and teaching, monitor pupil progress and contribute to the wider academic development of the school.

Temp to Perm | Secondary School | M4–M6 + TLR

This is a temp-to-perm opportunity, with the successful candidate having the opportunity to secure a permanent position with the school following the temporary period.

What the school can offer a Head of History:

  • A genuine temp-to-perm pathway into a permanent Head of History position.
  • Leadership responsibility for the History department.
  • The opportunity to shape and develop the History curriculum.
  • Responsibility for maintaining high standards of teaching and learning.
  • Opportunities to develop colleagues through coaching and collaborative planning.
  • A supportive wider leadership team.
  • Professional development and opportunities for further career progression.

Your responsibilities will include:

  • Leading the History department across KS3 and KS4.
  • Developing a coherent and engaging History curriculum.
  • Monitoring teaching, learning and pupil progress across the department.
  • Supporting colleagues with planning, assessment and classroom practice.
  • Analysing departmental data and implementing strategies to improve outcomes.
  • Preparing pupils effectively for GCSE examinations.
  • Supporting the development of schemes of work and high-quality resources.
  • Contributing to whole-school teaching and learning priorities.

The successful Head of History will:

  • Hold UK Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
  • Have a degree in History or a closely related subject.
  • Have strong experience teaching History at secondary level.
  • Have experience leading a subject or significant responsibility within a History department.
  • Have strong knowledge of the KS3 and GCSE History curriculum.
  • Be confident using assessment and progress information to drive improvement.
  • Be able to support and develop other teachers.
  • Have high expectations of teaching, behaviour and pupil achievement.

If you are an experienced History Teacher ready to take on departmental leadership and looking for a temp-to-perm opportunity that can lead to a permanent Head of History position, this Lewisham role is an excellent next step.

Ribbons & Reeves are London's leading Education Recruiters. We specialise in helping educators of all levels secure long-term and permanent roles, such as this 'Head of History' role, in Lewisham. For other roles like this, check out our website, search 'Ribbons & Reeves'. We look forward to supporting you in your application to this Head of History role.

Head of History | Lewisham | INDTEACH