Head of Psychology & Sociology – High-Achieving Secondary Academy in Swindon

A high-achieving secondary academy in Swindon, Wiltshire, is seeking an ambitious Head of Psychology & Sociology to take strategic leadership across its thriving Key Stage 4 and Sixth Form courses on a full-time, permanent basis starting in January. Job Overview Psychology and Sociology are among the most popular and academically rigorous subjects within this academy's Sixth Form provision. The successful applicant will hold overall responsibility for curriculum sequencing, quality of instruction, and exam performance across GCSE Sociology, A-Level Psychology, and A-Level Sociology. Working directly with senior leadership, you will line-manage department staff, oversee assessment moderation, lead standardisation on 16-mark essays, and manage academic interventions. This is a full-time, permanent contract. Key Responsibilities Provide strategic direction, curriculum design, and operational management for Psychology and Sociology Teach high-rigor lessons across A-Level Psychology and/or A-Level Sociology Line-manage, observe, and mentor departmental teachers through lesson visits and faculty CPD Train pupils in empirical research methodologies, statistical testing, and structured evaluative writing Analyze assessment tracking data to design structured revision programs and mock exam clinics Coordinate guest lecture series, psychology societies, and university preparation clinics Role Overview & Specifications Start Date: January Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract Location: Swindon, Wiltshire Salary / Pay Rate: TLR1 or Leadership Scale equivalent Key Curriculum: AQA Psychology & AQA Sociology Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS, QTLS) with an honors degree in Psychology, Sociology, or a closely related discipline Consistent track record of delivering strong GCSE and A-Level examination outcomes Prior experience in departmental coordination, key stage leadership, or peer mentoring In-depth understanding of empirical research methods and evaluative essay frameworks An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply) How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this full-time, permanent Head of Psychology & Sociology position in Swindon for a January start.