Rare Head of ICT Vacancy in Bristol - Competitive Salary!

• Lead and manage the Computing department to deliver high-quality teaching and learning.
• Drive student achievement and progress in Computer Science and IT qualifications.
• Promote digital literacy, computational thinking, and innovative technology use across the school.

Role Purpose

The Head of Computing provides strategic and operational leadership for the Computing department. The role ensures the delivery of a high-quality curriculum across KS3, KS4, and KS5 where applicable.

The post holder will oversee curriculum planning, staff development, assessment processes, and the effective use of technology in teaching and learning.

• Ensure the Computing curriculum aligns with national curriculum expectations and examination board specifications.
• Promote a culture of innovation, problem solving, and digital competence within the department.
• Contribute positively to the ethos, aims, and wider development of the school.

Head of Computing - Key Responsibilities

Curriculum Leadership

• Lead the planning, development, and delivery of the Computing curriculum across all key stages.
• Ensure the curriculum reflects current developments in Computer Science, programming, and digital technology.
• Develop and review schemes of work, lesson resources, and assessment frameworks.
• Monitor curriculum effectiveness and implement improvements where required.
• Promote computational thinking, coding, and digital problem-solving skills.

Teaching and Learning

• Deliver engaging and high-quality lessons in Computer Science and IT.
• Model outstanding classroom practice and support teachers within the department.
• Use assessment data to monitor student progress and implement intervention strategies.
• Promote inclusive teaching practices to support SEND, EAL, and mixed-ability learners.
• Ensure safe and effective delivery of practical computing and digital technology lessons.

Department Leadership and Management

• Lead and support Computing staff through mentoring, coaching, and professional development.
• Coordinate departmental meetings and contribute to whole-school planning.
• Monitor teaching quality through lesson observations and feedback.
• Manage departmental resources, software licences, and equipment.
• Ensure effective use and maintenance of computing facilities.

Assessment and Data Management

• Oversee internal assessments and external examination entries for Computing qualifications.
• Monitor student attainment and progress using school data systems.
• Produce departmental reports for senior leadership.
• Ensure coursework and non-exam assessments meet awarding body requirements.
• Use assessment data to inform teaching strategies and curriculum improvements.

Whole-School Digital Development

• Support the development of digital literacy across the school community.
• Promote the effective use of educational technology in teaching and learning.
• Work collaboratively with other departments to integrate computing and digital skills.
• Lead extracurricular activities such as coding clubs, robotics clubs, or cybersecurity initiatives.

Communication and Collaboration

• Work closely with senior leadership to support school improvement priorities.
• Build positive relationships with students, parents, and staff.
• Provide guidance to students regarding computing pathways, careers, and further study.
• Contribute to open evenings, curriculum events, and school presentations.

Additional Responsibilities

• Attend staff training (INSET) and departmental meetings.
• Support school initiatives relating to curriculum development and student achievement.
• Participate in performance management and departmental review processes.
• Undertake additional duties as directed by the Headteacher.

The duties outlined above reflect the current requirements of the role and may be reviewed through the performance management process.

Safeguarding Statement

The school in Bristol is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

• All appointments are subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check.
• Satisfactory references will be required prior to appointment.

• Experience teaching Computer Science or IT in a secondary school setting.
• Experience delivering GCSE, BTEC, or A-Level Computing qualifications.
• Experience leading curriculum development or managing a subject area (desirable).
• Experience using educational technology to enhance teaching and learning.

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Strong subject knowledge in Computer Science, programming, and digital technologies.
• Excellent organisational and leadership skills.
• Ability to motivate, support, and develop staff and students.
• Strong understanding of assessment, data analysis, and curriculum planning.
• Ability to manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Competent IT skills and experience using educational technologies and school systems.
• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive education.