Together, stronger
Head of Business Studies Recruitment Pack
October 2025
• Letter from our CEO Page 3
• Letter from our Principal Page 4
• About us Page 5
• Our sponsors Page 6
• Role Description Page 7
• Key Responsibilities Page 8
• Person Specification Page 9
• Why Haberdashers? Page 12
• Recruitment process Page 15
• Contact details Page 16
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Contents
Letter from Jan Shadick, CEO
Dear Candidate,
Thank you for your interest in the post of Head of Business
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 Trust Recruitment Lead, Yas Affum on y.affum@habstrustsouth.org.uk or HR Advisor for Crayford Academy, Lauren Findlay on l.findlay@habstrustsouth.org.uk
I look forward to hearing from you.
Jan Shadick Chief Executive Officer Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South
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Letter from Steve W
heatley, Executive Principal Dear Candidate,
Welcome to Crayford Academy, where education and excellence go hand in hand. Our dedicated team are committed to providing a dynamic and engaging learning environment for our pupils that is safe and supportive too. We strive to create a culture of curiosity, creativity and critical thinking that prepares our students for success in their futures whatever they may be.
We provide targeted support and a broad education to enable each and every one of our students to reach their full potential and to grow into well-rounded members of our community and aim to ensure all the children and young people who come to our schools: • Are happy and safe at school and are able to learn successfully within a supportive
environment • Are able to achieve their full potential personally, academically and socially. • Develop and grow as independent, resourceful and resilient individuals. • Are equipped with the skills, qualifications and love of learning they will need to be
successful in the world they will join as adults.
Our state-of-the-art facilities provide endless opportunities for exploration and discovery, while our diverse range of extracurricular activities and clubs allow our pupils to pursue their passions and develop their talents to the fullest.
Our pupils are at the heart of everything we do. Our pastoral team give individualised attention and teaching staff give personalised learning plans, we work closely with each student to help them reach their full potential. We foster a positive and inclusive community where all students feel valued and respected.
Our School was inspected by OFSTED in December 2022 with inspectors stating “Pupils are part of a strong and inclusive community. They meet the high expectations placed on them and have positive attitudes to learning”. OFSTED graded our school “GOOD” in all areas, you can read the full report here
We are proud of the achievements of our pupils and the impact they make in the world. Our most recent GCSE results place us in the top 20% of schools nationally, we are oversubscribed in year 7 and our 6th form continues to grow. Our pupils leave Crayford Academy with the skills, knowledge and confidence to make a meaningful difference in their communities and beyond.
Here at Crayford Academy, we believe that every student has the potential to achieve great things, we are “shaping futures” daily. Join us on this journey of discovery, and see for yourself the exciting and dynamic learning experience we offer.
We look forward to welcoming you to the Crayford Academy community!
Kindest regards
Mr Steve Wheatley Executive Principal Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy
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Federation-wide vision
We are a multi-academy trust consisting of four
secondary schools and five primary schools and have
been educating children and young people since 1876.
Our moral imperative at that time was to ensure that
every child in our care received the best possible
education in order to make the best start in life. That
moral imperative remains today, underpinned by ethos
of working together and our values of being ambitious,
always growing and contributing to the world as global
citizens.
In a complex world, we need our children and young
people to be as well equipped for their future as
possible so that they can flourish. We will support them
to become compelling individuals so that by the time
they leave us they will have experienced a range of
opportunities that not only build their mind but also
build their character.
We are proud to be a diverse community and take
seriously the need to ensure that every child, young
person and adult connected with our schools feels
included, welcomed and listened to. This is an
important part of who we are and our commitment to
equality and fairness. This commitment remains at the
forefront of our work.
To find out more about Haberdashers’ Academies Trust
South, please visit: www.habstrustsouth.org.uk
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.org.u
k/Our-Vision-and-Strategy
About Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South
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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
Role Description
About the role
We are seeking an exceptional Subject Leader of Business Studies to lead, inspire, and drive excellence in our Business Studies department. This is an exciting opportunity for a dynamic teacher with a clear vision for the subject and a commitment to delivering an outstanding learning experience for every student.
Our Business Studies department is a vibrant, innovative, and high-performing team. We deliver Pearson BTEC Tech Award Level 1/2 in Enterprise at KS4 and OCR Level 3 Cambridge Technicals in Business at KS5, equipping students with practical knowledge and real-world skills that prepare them for higher education, apprenticeships, and employment.
• High student engagement – Business is one of the most popular options at KS4 and KS5. • Strong results and positive progress scores – evidence of consistently high-quality teaching and
excellent outcomes. • Collaborative team culture – regular curriculum development meetings, shared resources, and a
focus on innovative teaching. • Excellent facilities – modern classrooms, industry-standard software, and access to cross-curricular
projects with Computing and Economics.
As HOD, you will:
• Shape the strategic vision for Business Studies and lead its delivery across KS4 and KS5. • Inspire and support staff, ensuring high-quality teaching and effective use of resources. • Develop an engaging curriculum that promotes creativity, enterprise, and prepares students for
future careers. • Monitor and raise achievement, ensuring all students make excellent progress. • Lead on assessment, moderation, and liaise with exam boards. • Champion the subject across the school, raising its profile through enrichment opportunities,
business challenges, and links with local employers.
What We Offer:
• A supportive, forward-thinking senior leadership team that values staff wellbeing. • Opportunities for professional development and career progression within the school and trust. • Time for leadership and planning, with a focus on reducing unnecessary workload.
Job Title: Head of Business Studies Contract Type: Permanent Salary: Enhanced MPS/UPS including Outer London Allowance (£37,928 - £56,217) +
TLR2B £6,180 School/Service: Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy Location: Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, DA1 4RS Hours Per Week: Full time
Role Description
• Access to a network of business education specialists across our MAT. • Enthusiastic, motivated students who enjoy studying Business. • A positive and collaborative staff culture, where innovation is encouraged and celebrated
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• We expect our staff to uphold the high standards and values of our school and proactively promote them to our students. Our vision is built from our values of Community, Critical Thinking, Courage and Confidence. You can find out more about our values and ethos here
• At Crayford Academy, we can offer you an enhanced salary package, which is not only higher than the national average but also exceeds that of other Bexley schools, making us a financially rewarding place to work.
• Great people bring teaching to life, so we would love you to join our team.
Reporting
This role will report into the Assistant Principal for Enterprise
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 be a London Living Wage employer.
Job Title: Head of Business Studies Contract Type: Permanent Salary: Enhanced MPS/UPS including Outer London Allowance (£37,928 - £56,217) +
TLR2B £6,180 School/Service: Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy Location: Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, DA1 4RS Hours Per Week: Full time
Main responsibilities • To lead and actively contribute to the Teaching of Business Studies across all age and ability ranges • To lead your team with confidence, clarity, and guidance so that they are well supported • To develop all aspects of the curriculum • To secure the quality of teaching in the department across all stages • To provide high quality leadership of your department, through line management and appraisal, enabling
Teachers to fulfil their responsibilities and deliver high quality lessons • To generate an enthusiasm around the subject that results in Business 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
a) Lesson planning, delivery and evaluation b) Student behaviour and care c) Student assessment
• To consistently plan and deliver engaging and differentiated Business Studies lessons, ensuring that a variety of teaching resources are utilised, and a wide range of abilities and interest are catered for
• 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 Business 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 Middle Leader • To foster a positive, inclusive and safe learning environment where students feel encourage to participate and
develop their skills • To organise and participate in extracurricular clubs, trips, competitions, and school wide events
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. • To attend staff briefing/meetings, training, and inset days as required • To cover lessons for absent staff as required • To carry out break or lunch duty as requested/as per rota
General • 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 Executive Principal or Leadership Team
Key responsibilities of the role
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Federation-wide vision Person specification
Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria
Method of Assessment:
Application (A) Interview (I)
Assessment (AS) References ( R)
Education and Qualifications
Educated to Degree Standard A/I
Qualified Teaching Status (recognised in the UK)
A/I
Knowledge and Experience
Able to teach all Business Studies to KS4 and 5 Substantial secondary school teaching experience
A/AS/I
Evidence that you have led, or are ready to lead a team/department. Previous roles could include 2ic or significant substantial secondary school teaching experience
An interest in working in a Multi-Academy setting
Experience in planning, delivering and assessing lessons that engage and challenge students of varying ability
Experience of delivering Pearson BTEC Award Level 1 and 2 in Enterprise at KS4
A/AS/I/R
Use of performance data to track student progress and monitor achievement, with strategies for raising achievement
Experience of delivering OCR Level 3 Cambridge Standard in Business Certificate at KS5
A/AS/I/R
Proven track record of raising educational standards
A/R
Can motivate students at all levels of ability, thus ensuring that all students fully access the Business Studies curriculum
A/AS/I
Will be an outstanding classroom practitioner with an excellent track record of progress and results
A/AS/I/R
Ability to inspire, demonstrate and support the highest of expectations for all
A/I/R
Ability to motivate and inspire others; both colleagues and students
A/R
Positive student behaviour management skills A/AS/I/R
Knowledge and Understanding of the National Curriculum
A/AS/I/R
High level communication and Literacy Skills A/AS/I
Keen organisational, time management and multi tasking skills
A/AS
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Federation-wide vision Person specification
Essential Criteria Desirable Criteria
Method of Assessment:
Application (A) Interview (I)
Assessment (AS) References ( R)
Personal Experience/Qualities
Clear commitment and understanding of the Trust ethos, vision and values and an ability to uphold them
A/I/AS/R
Belief in equality and opportunity for all, ensuring that all staff feel included and listened to
A/I/AS/R
Ability to establish and articulate a clear vision in an engaging way
A/I/AS/R
Determination and resilience A/I/AS/R
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
A/I/AS/R
Commitment to collaborative working A/I/AS/R
High expectations of achievement, conduct and behaviour and a willingness to address situations where these fall short
A/I/AS/R
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
A/I/AS/R
Passionate about subject area A/I/AS/R
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“I believe in the value of working collaboratively with colleagues and partner schools to bring out the best in staff and students. The Trust consider the development of staff to be integral in its pursuit of excellence and I am supported and encouraged to grow within my role.”
K Atwell, Vice Principal Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy
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.
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T Dosunmu, Teacher of Maths Haberdashers’ Academies Trust South
“Crayford academy - a school beyond the measure of good in most aspects, brimming with fantastic and energetic teachers
full of passion for what they teach!!”
Recruitment process and additional recruitment information Closing date: 22 October 2025, 12pm Interview date: Applicants will be invited to interview before the closing date, in the order they are received, so early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to close the advert if a suitable candidate is found. Start date: January 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/practical task • A presentation • An in-person interview
Special Requirements: If you require reasonable adjustments prior to your interview, these can be arranged by emailing crayfordhr@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 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 Lauren Findlay on l.findlay@habstrustsouth.org.uk
Thank you for your interest in Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy. We look forward to receiving your
application.
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Haberdashers’ Crayford Academy Iron Mill Lane, Crayford, Kent DA1 4RS
www.habscrayford.org.uk X - @HabsCrayford
Instagram - habscrayford
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