Head of Department Drama - Essex

Do you have the innovative vision needed to spearhead a modern, future-proof Drama curriculum?

Are you ready to lead a department that gives every student a voice, both on and off the stage?

Can you mentor a team of dedicated educators to deliver their best work while keeping creativity at the heart of everything they do?

If you are a passionate theatre practitioner and an ambitious leader ready to build a legacy of creative excellence, we want to hear from you.

Position: Head of Department Drama

Location: Essex

Contract Type: Full-Time Permanent position

Salary: Depending on experience and qualifications

Start Date: September 2026

Qualification: A relevant degree and QTS, proven leadership experience

Randstad Education is seeking an exceptional Head of Department Drama to lead our dynamic department through its next phase of growth. We are looking for a strategic leader who can seamlessly balance the magic of co-curricular theatre production with the academic rigour required to drive outstanding student outcomes at GCSE and A-Level.

This is a permanent position and you will be required to support five days a week Monday - Friday inline with school hours.

You can simply email your CV now to (url removed) and I will get in touch with you shortly!

Responsibilities:

• Define and drive the strategic direction of the Drama department.
• Design and oversee a high-quality, inclusive curriculum across all Key Stages (including GCSE/A-Level).
• Line-manage, appraise, and support the professional development of Drama teaching and technical staff.
• Monitor student progress data and implement targeted interventions to maximise academic results.
• Direct and oversee extra-curricular school productions, showcases, and theatre trips.
• Manage the department budget and ensure safety standards in all performance spaces.

Preferred Skills:

• A degree in Drama or a related languages field.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).
• Deep knowledge of diverse theatrical practitioners, styles, and exam board specifications.
• Proven capability in stage direction, alongside a strong understanding of lighting, sound, and set design.
• Ability to evaluate student data to identify learning gaps and raise teaching standards.
• Skilled in mentoring staff and modelling outstanding classroom practice.
• Exceptional project management skills to balance rehearsals with academic deadlines.

Personal Attributes:

• Possesses an engaging presence that builds enthusiasm for the arts across the school.
• Thrives under the pressure of live productions and tight deadlines.
• Committed to creating a safe environment where all students feel confident taking creative risks.
• Methodical approach to administrative duties, compliance, and event planning.
• Eager to work with other creative arts departments and the wider community.

Please note that this role is unable to offer any Sponsorship at this time.

All candidates will be subject to Randstad Education''s child protection and UK eligibility vetting including a DBS check and providing satisfactory references. A DBS on the update service would be a distinct advantage due to the urgent nature of some of these roles.

If you have recent and relevant experience for this position and are immediately available for work then please email me your CV now to (url removed) and I will be in touch with you!!

I look forward to hearing from you soon!