Head of Religious Studies

Head of Religious Education (RE)
Permanent | Full-Time | Salary: Up to £50,000 per annum

Start: September 2026

Location: Luton, Bedfordshire

We are seeking to appoint an inspiring and committed Head of Religious Education to lead our thriving RE department at a successful Roman Catholic secondary school and sixth form in Luton. Established in 1968, our school serves students aged 11–18 and is proud of its strong academic outcomes, particularly at A-level, alongside a vibrant and growing Sixth Form.

Rooted in our mission, “Together Towards Our Lord through Learning, Love and Faith,” we are dedicated to nurturing the spiritual, academic, and personal development of every student. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate leader to shape and develop Religious Education at the heart of our school community.

Please note: As this is a senior leadership role within a Catholic school, applicants must be practising Catholics.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership and vision for the RE department, ensuring excellence in teaching and learning across all key stages, including Sixth Form.
• Promote and uphold the Catholic ethos of the school in all aspects of leadership and practice.
• Lead the development, implementation, and evaluation of a high-quality RE curriculum in line with diocesan and national expectations.
• Monitor and raise standards of student attainment and progress in RE.
• Support and develop staff within the department through coaching, mentoring, and effective performance management.
• Work collaboratively with senior leadership to contribute to whole-school improvement and faith life.
• Lead and coordinate liturgical celebrations, collective worship, and spiritual development opportunities for students and staff.
• Ensure high standards of behaviour, engagement, and inclusion within the department.
• Engage effectively with parents, governors, and the wider Catholic community.

Person Specification

• A practising Catholic with a strong commitment to Catholic education and ethos.
• Qualified teacher with relevant degree (theology or related subject preferred).
• Proven leadership experience within a secondary school setting.
• Strong subject knowledge and a track record of raising achievement in RE.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
• A commitment to continuous professional development and innovation in teaching.

What We Offer

• A supportive and faith-driven school community.
• Motivated and respectful students.
• A high-performing Sixth Form with excellent outcomes.
• Opportunities for professional growth and leadership development.
• A chance to make a meaningful impact in a school where faith and learning go hand in hand.

If you are a dedicated and ambitious leader ready to inspire young people in their faith and learning, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now to join our journey of faith, learning, and excellence.

All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
All pay rates quoted will be inclusive of 12.07% statutory holiday pay. This advert is for a temporary position. In some cases, the option to make this role permanent may become available at a later date.
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