Head of RS Recruitment Pack

March 2026

Together, stronger

• Letter from our CEO Page 3

• Letter from our Interim Principal Page 4

• About us Page 5

• Our sponsors Page 6

• Role Description Page 8 - 9

• Person Specification Page 10-11

• Why Haberdashers? Page 12 - 13

• Recruitment process Page 15

• Contact details Page 16

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Contents

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Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in the post of Head of Religious Studies.

We are a Trust of nine schools, all based in South East London. Whilst each of our schools maintains its individuality, we share a common mission: to ensure that every single child and young person in our care is successful at school so that they can flourish and be successful in their lives. We are committed to ensuring this success from 3 to Forever, under our mantra of ‘once a Haberdasher, always a Haberdasher’.

Our People Strategy is key to our success and integral to this is our commitment to equity, equality, diversity, and inclusion . Bringing this to life is the responsibility of every member of staff. We take seriously any behaviour which undermines it. Anyone applying to work with us, should share this commitment.

Please take a look on our website for more information. We want the best people to join our Haberdashers’ community and are committed to a diverse and inclusive student and staff body.

If you are passionate about making a difference and feel that you have the right experience and expertise, I encourage you to apply to join us on our journey.

For a confidential discussion regarding this post, please contact knightshr@habtstrustsouth.org.uk or 0208 461 9240.

I look forward to hearing from you.

Jan Shadick Chief Executive Officer Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South

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Letter from Jem

m a Clark, Interim

Principal Dear Candidate,

Thank you for your interest in joining Haberdashers’ Knights Academy as Head of Religious Studies, playing a vital role in the continued development of the department.

At Knights Academy, we serve a richly diverse community in South East London and are immensely proud of the ambition and potential of our young people. Working here is both a privilege and a responsibility. Every day, our staff make a tangible difference to the lives of children whose talents and aspirations deserve the very best opportunities. If you are driven by purpose and believe in the power of education to transform lives, you will find this an incredibly rewarding place to build your career.

We are a vibrant 11–18 school with high expectations and an unwavering commitment to excellence. Our vision is to ensure that every child achieves their full potential, personally, academically and socially, underpinned by our ASPIRE values of Accountability, Self-Discipline, Partnership, Integrity, Respect and Excellence. These values shape not only our students’ experiences but also the professional culture we foster among staff.

Collaboration, professional growth and ambition define our working environment. We invest significantly in staff development, offering high-quality professional learning, clear pathways for progression and opportunities to take on meaningful responsibility. Whether you are early in your career or bring extensive experience, you will find both challenge and support here.

As part of Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South, we benefit from the strength and expertise of a wider family of schools with a long-standing commitment to education in South East London. This partnership provides stability, shared best practice and genuine opportunities for career development across the Trust.

This is an exciting phase in our journey, and we are seeking talented, committed professionals who share our ambition for every young person. I hope you will consider becoming part of our school community.

I look forward to receiving your application.

Yours sincerely,

Jemma Clark Interim Principal Haberdashers’ Knights Academy

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Federation-wide vision

VISION 2026

Every School an Excellent

School

It is the Trust’s vision for all of

our schools to be excellent

schools. Our mission is to

ensure that every one of our

children and young people

flourishes at school so that

they can be successful in their

lives.

Our three main objectives are:

• Excellent outcomes for all

children and young people

so that they can be

successful in their next steps

and future lives;

• To be regarded as a great

employer, attracting,

retaining and developing the

best staff;

• To be the Trust of choice and

a welcome presence in our

communities.

To find out more about our

Vision and Strategy, please

visit:

https://www.habstrustsouth.or

g.uk/Our-Vision-and-Strategy

About Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South

At Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South, we transform lives through education, empowering children and young people across south-east London to dream big, grow with confidence, and create a brighter future. We build knowledge, confidence, and character in every learner, ensuring they thrive at school and beyond, no matter their background.

As part of the Haberdashers’ family, our schools benefit from a unique blend of state and independent education, creating life- changing opportunities and experiences that inspire ambition and prepare learners for tomorrow’s world.

We are proud to be a diverse and inclusive community, guided by our commitment to Equity, Equality, Diversity, and Inclusion (EEDI): • Equity: Supporting individuals according to their needs. • Equality: Valuing and treating everyone fairly. • Diversity: Celebrating uniqueness and the strength it

brings. • Inclusion: Ensuring everyone feels they belong and can

contribute.

All members of our community are expected to uphold this commitment, challenge discrimination, and help build a safe and welcoming environment.

Together, we live our values of Dream, Grow, and Create, shaping a community where potential is realised and futures are transformed.

To find out more about Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South,

please visit: www.habstrustsouth.org.uk

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Our Sponsors

Our sponsors are a huge part of the culture within our schools. The links with our sponsors are a unique and special part of what makes our Trust and schools what they are today.

The Worshipful Company of Haberdashers

Our main sponsor is the Worshipful Company of Haberdashers, one of the Great Twelve Livery Companies of the City of London. Education is hugely important to the Haberdashers’ Company and today there are more than 12,000 children and young people in its’ family of 19 schools. The Haberdashers’ network of maintained and independent schools stretch across the country, covering north London, Shropshire and Monmouth and our own Trust, in south London and Kent. We have regular opportunities to collaborate with the wider network of Haberdashers’ schools on a number of initiatives and events.

The Haberdashers’ Company supports our pupils in many ways. There are a number of educational and careers initiatives that are organised by the Company, such as the Livery Academy Awards, Monmouth - City of London Work Experience, Haberdashers’ Musician of the Year, an annual Year 7 visit to the prestigious Haberdashers’ Hall, cross school sporting competitions, mentoring, trips and much more. Each year, a number of Year 13 pupils receive scholarships that will support them financially through university and the Company fund a number of projects throughout the school year. The relationship with the Haberdashers Company is central to the success of the Haberdashers’ Advantage enrichment programme, and pupils, parents and staff are proud of this relationship.

Being part of the Haberdashers’ community is very important to us as a school. The Haberdashers’ come and visit us each year to hear from the children, to see what has been happening in our school and to celebrate our achievements. The Haberdashers’ Company supports pupils, past and present, as they progress through their educational and professional journey, which offers our pupils something truly unique.

Find out more: www.haberdashers.co.uk

Temple Grove Schools Trust

Temple Grove Schools Trust is a charitable trust dedicated to raising standards for primary education. The Trust was founded some 50 years ago and springs from one of the country’s oldest prep schools, Temple Grove founded in 1810. The Trust seeks to provide all children with a breadth and depth of learning opportunities in order to realise individual aspirations and potential.

Our primary schools are extremely fortunate to have a partnership with the Temple Grove Schools Trust. Schools benefit from bursaries that allow us the opportunity to give our children learning experiences they may not get at other schools; including music lessons, professional coaches and multiple trips.

Find out more: www.templegrove.org.uk

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“In my role at Knights Academy, I have felt the support of a Leadership that shares the same ethos and vision for my subject area. This support, combined with a Principal that will always do what is best for the students, has allowed me to develop the Music department towards achieving our aims. The students are eager to get involved in the activities we offer them, showing a real enthusiasm for making music. Their willingness to perform at events and represent the school demonstrates the sense of community felt by our students, giving the school and students a sense of pride and belonging.”

Head of Music Haberdashers’ Knights Academy

Role Description

About the role:

• To lead and actively contribute to the teaching of Religious Studies across all age and ability ranges • To develop all aspects of the Religious Studies curriculum • To secure the quality of teaching in the department across all key stages • Provide high quality leadership of your department, through line management and performance

management, enabling them to fulfil their responsibilities and deliver high quality lessons • Be relentless and precise in your approach to pupil progress and be able to demonstrate that children

here would do significantly better than if they went to other schools • Support leaders within the Academy by adhering to the professional standards expected of a middle

leader • Generate an enthusiasm around the subject that results in Religious Studies developing a high profile

within the school and in our enrichment programme • To work within and contribute to established academy and department frameworks for

• Lesson planning, delivery and evaluation • Student behaviour and care • Student assessment • To consistently plan and deliver outstanding lessons, ensuring that a variety of teaching

resources are utilised • To ensure that students’ work is marked regularly and conscientiously, in accordance with the academy

marking policy • To set and mark internal and external examinations and assessments as required • To provide appropriate and effective intervention as required • To remain informed of current developments in the subject area • To participate in Professional Learning and to initiate change where appropriate. • To contribute to development of innovative and challenging schemes of work • Ensure assessment in Religious Studies is consistent and accurate, enabling you to forecast pupil

performance with precision • Be determined in your approach to adding value and be able to demonstrate that children in our school

perform better than if they went to other schools nationally through a positive contribution to the school’s Progress 8 measure

• Support leaders within the Academy by adhering to the professional standards expected of a classroom teacher.

Accountable to: Assistant Principal

Job Title: Head of Religious Studies Contract Type: Permanent Salary: MPS/UPS +TLR (£40,389-£62,560 + £6,180) School/Service: Haberdashers’ Knights Academy Location: Launcelot Road, Bromley, BR1 5EB Hours Per Week: 32.5 Accountable to: Assistant Principal

Role description continued

Other Responsibilities:

• Keep up to date with developments in your subject area and in teaching practice and methodology.

• Take responsibility for your own professional development in discussion with your line manager.

• Maintain an organised and effective learning environment in the classroom and shared areas.

• Ensure the consistent implementation of school and Trust policies and procedures throughout the subject areas.

General Responsibilities:

• To work within the Academy framework with regard to Health and Safety • To promote equal opportunities in the Academy • To promote the ethos of the Trust / Academy • To promote the school’s commitment to the continued professional development of all staff. • To work within the school’s framework with regards to Health and Safety. • To be aware of and assume the appropriate level of responsibility for safeguarding and

promoting the welfare of children. • To report any Safeguarding concerns in accordance with Trust’s Safeguarding Policy • To undertake any duties as may reasonably be required by the Principal or Leadership Team

Staff Development:

Our staff are important to us. We know that without great staff, our children will not be as successful. Therefore, Professional Learning is key to our success. As a new employee within the Trust, you will be supported by the Senior Directors of People and Professional Learning, alongside your line manager to realise your full potential.

We are proud to pay the London Living Wage.

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Federation-wide vision

Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria Method of Assessment: Application (A) Interview (I) Assessment (AS) References ( R)

Education & Qualifications

• Degree • QTS • GCSE Maths and English Grade C or above

(or equivalent) • Excellent written and verbal

communication skills

A, I

A, I, AS

Knowledge & Experience

• Able to teach Religious Studies/Philosophy and Ethics from KS3-5

• A good knowledge of Religious Studies and Philosophy and Ethics

• Substantial secondary school teaching experience (At least 3 years)

• Use of performance data to track student progress and monitor achievement.

• Proven track record of raising educational standards

• Can motivate students at all levels of ability, thus ensuring that all students fully access the Religious Studies curriculum

• Will be an outstanding classroom practitioner with an excellent track record of progress and results

• Ability to inspire, demonstrate and support the highest of expectations for all

• Ability to motivate and inspire others; both colleagues and students

• Positive student behaviour management skills

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

• Will have knowledge of the National Curriculum, GCSE and A-Level specifications

• Will demonstrate high level communication and literacy skills

• Has keen organisational, time-management and multi tasking skills

• Has strategies for raising achievement

• Working across a partnership of schools or across schools within a Multi- Academy Trust setting

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

Personal qualities • Clear commitment and understanding of the Trust ethos, vision and values and an ability to uphold them

• Belief in equality and opportunity for all, ensuring that all staff feel included and listened to

• Proactive and positive approach to finding solutions.

• Resilient in face of challenges • Highly flexible and adaptable, willing to

respond to evolving need • High level of interpersonal and

communication skills and the ability to build relationships and influence at all levels – engaging with a range of stakeholders successfully

• Commitment to collaborative working and driven to achieve team goals

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

Person specificationPerson specification

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Federation-wide vision

Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria Method of Assessment: Application (A) Interview (I) Assessment (AS) References ( R)

Personal qualities • High expectations of achievement, conduct and behaviour and a willingness to address situations where these fall short

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

A, I, AS, R

Person specificationPerson specification (contd)

Staff Benefits

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W hy H

aberdashers? At Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South, we believe that investing in our staff is crucial for our success. That’s why we offer a range of benefits that cater to your professional growth, well-being, and financial security.

Here are some of the benefits you can expect when you join us:

Perkbox: Our cutting-edge reward and benefits platform empowers you to acknowledge your colleagues’ accomplishments through its celebration tool. You can gain flexi and reward points, which can be redeemed at various high street and online retailers for treats and every day essentials. Additionally, you have the option to make charitable donations.

Pension Scheme: (eligible and enrolled participants): From 1 April 1 2024, for teachers, the Trust will contribute 28.68% to your pension fund. Support Staff will receive a 19.80% contribution to their pension pot from the same date.

Professional Learning: Our dedicated team at Habs Institute for Professional Learning is devoted to nurturing your professional growth. We offer excellent training opportunities for all staff throughout the year and provide partial funding for qualification pursuits.

Employee Assistance Program (EAP): Our EAP encompasses a 24-hour, free, and confidential counselling service. It includes access to online cognitive-behavioural therapy and management consultations to support Line Managers.

Well-being: Enjoy complimentary access to the award-winning Headspace app, along with free mindfulness courses to enhance your overall well-being.

Staff Development: Explore secondment opportunities within the Trust or external organisations, providing valuable experiences for your professional development.

Ride to Work and Cycle to Work Schemes: Take advantage of substantial discounts through tax allowances for either purchasing a bike or opting for bike hire, promoting a healthier and more sustainable commute.

Season Ticket Loans: Enjoy discounted annual travel fares through our salary- deductible Season Ticket Loan and save on your travel overall.

We are committed to helping you thrive in your career and personal life. Join our team and enjoy the benefits of working with a supportive and forward-thinking organisation.

Staff Incentives

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W hy H

aberdashers? We know that staff are our greatest asset in achieving our vision for every school to be an excellent school and for our children and young people to flourish and succeed.

To incentivise like-minded and talented people who care about the work we do at the Trust, to join us and stay with us, we have recently introduced :

Talent Connect Bonus

Refer a friend or connection to apply for a role at the Trust and receive a £300* bonus when they successfully complete their probation period.

Welcome Reward

Those employed in ‘hard to fill’ roles to receive a Welcome Reward of £500* after successfully completing their probation period.

Milestone Appreciation Award

Long-serving members of staff to receive a £500*** reward and congratulatory letter from the CEO for reaching 5, 10, 15, 20 and 25-year anniversaries with the Trust. .

* subject to tax and National Insurance contributions, and other terms and conditions. Some senior leaders will be exempt from receiving the Talent Connect Bonus.

“When you join as a member of staff at Knights, you become a part of the 'Knights family'. The welcome and support I received upon joining, from every corner of the academy, helped me to settle in quickly and feel successful straightaway. Our students are curious and ambitious, and they help make the school a great place to work.”

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Teacher of English Haberdashers’ Knights Academy

Recruitment process and additional recruitment information

Closing date: Wednesday 18th March We reserve the right to close this job advert early and interview candidates if we receive sufficient applications. It is advised that you submit your application as soon as possible to avoid disappointment.

Shortlisting date: Thursday 19th March Interview date: Monday 23rd March Start date: September 2026

Recruitment Process: Once you have submitted your application, it will be assessed against the criteria in the person specification. If you score well against this criteria, you will then be invited to attend an interview. Details will be made available when selected, but the interview is likely to include: • A written task • Classroom visit with staff and students • Panel interviews on a variety of topics

Special Requirements: If you require reasonable adjustments prior to your interview, these can be arranged by emailing knightshr@habstrustsouth.org.uk Equality and Diversity: We recognise the benefits of a diverse workforce. We are committed to eradicating discrimination in the workplace, becoming an employer of choice, for all staff to believe that they have a voice and be empowered to make a difference

References: We will obtain references from your referees if you are successful at interview. In order to prevent any delays, please ensure that the reference section of the application form is accurate and completed in full.

Right to work in the UK: Section 8 of the Asylum and Immigration Act 2006 makes it a criminal offence for an employer to take on a new employee whose immigration status prevents him/her from taking up employment. If you are invited to attend an interview, you will be asked to produce original and up to date documentary evidence of your right to work in the UK.

Data Protection: Any data about you will be held securely with access restricted to those involved in dealing with your application in the selection process. By signing and submitting your application form, you are giving consent to the processing of your data.

Criminal Convictions: All education establishments in the UK are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. In practice, this means that all shortlisted applicants must inform on all spent and unspent convictions on their application form and when completing a Disclosure and Barring form. Failure to provide this information may result in dismissal. List 99 is also obtained on anyone who will be working or coming into contact with children; and must be received by the School before employment can commence.

For a confidential discussion about this post or to arrange a visit to our school, please

contact the office on 020 8461 9240 or email knightshr@habstrustsouth.org.uk

Thank you for your interest in Haberdashers’ Knights Academy.

We look forward to receiving your application.

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Haberdashers’ Knights Academy Launcelot Road, Bromley BR1 5EB

www.habsknights.org.uk