Head of Department Jobs in Cambridge
Head of Department roles in Cambridge and the surrounding area
Are you a Head of Department or subject leader looking for your next role in Cambridge? Mana Education places middle leaders in secondary schools and village colleges across the city and the surrounding area, including interim cover.
Job Highlights
- Location: Cambridge, Cambridgeshire, and surrounding areas
- Job type: Supply, long-term and permanent – immediate starts available
- Salary: Main or upper pay scale plus a TLR payment, depending on the role
- Roles: Head of Department, subject leader and second in department
- Key stages: KS3 to KS5
We cover schools across Cambridge, including Chesterton, Arbury, King's Hedges, Cherry Hinton, Trumpington, Romsey, Newnham, Eddington and Marleigh, and the villages and new communities around the city, including Histon, Impington, Milton, Cottenham, Waterbeach, Northstowe, Cambourne, Comberton, Sawston, Linton and Bottisham.
How much could you earn?
Our advertised daily pay ranges are shown below. Rates depend on the role, school, experience and responsibilities; your consultant will confirm the rate and payment arrangements for each assignment.
Supply staff are paid weekly, a week in hand. For long-term teaching assignments, we aim to pay to scale from day one wherever possible. Permanent salaries are confirmed for the individual vacancy.
Why work with Mana Education?
- Local knowledge: Our team works with schools across Cambridge and the surrounding area, so we know the schools, the leadership teams and what they look for.
- Flexible work: Choose day-to-day supply, a long-term placement or a permanent role, and switch as your circumstances change.
- Paid weekly: Supply staff are paid weekly, and long-term assignments aim to pay to scale from day one.
- A named consultant: One point of contact who knows your subject specialism and preferred travel distance.
- Trusted across the region: Mana Education is an approved supplier on the Government Commercial Agency (GCA) framework RM6376 and works with over 600 schools, including Meridian Trust, Anglian Learning, Brooke Weston Trust, Thomas Deacon Education Trust, Peterborough Diocese Education Trust and Keys Academy Trust.
What can a Head of Department expect in Cambridge?
Cambridge secondaries range from 11–16 community colleges to large 11–18 village colleges, so middle leadership roles vary from leading a small team to running a large department with sixth form teaching.
Many schools belong to trusts such as United Learning, Eastern Learning Alliance, Anglian Learning, Meridian Trust and The Cam Academy Trust, which offer leadership development and shared curriculum work across their schools.
Shortage subjects such as maths, physics, computing and MFL often need interim Heads of Department to keep teams on track while a school recruits.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and develop the curriculum in your subject
- Line manage, support and develop teachers in your department
- Monitor and improve teaching quality and student outcomes
- Analyse data and plan interventions
- Manage the department budget and resources
- Contribute to whole-school improvement and leadership
Who we're looking for
- Experienced qualified teachers (QTS) with a strong record in their subject
- Current Heads of Department or subject leaders looking for a new challenge
- Second in departments ready to step up
- Experienced leaders available for interim cover
Frequently asked questions
Do you recruit for interim Heads of Department?
Yes. We often place interim middle leaders to cover leave or vacancies.
Which subjects are most in demand?
Maths, science, computing and MFL leadership roles are especially in demand.
How quickly can I start?
Once your registration and safeguarding checks are complete, many teachers start within days.
How to Apply
Ready to find out more? Click ‘Apply Now’ or click on the chat icon at the bottom of the screen to connect with our Cambridge Consultant at Mana Education, who will guide you through the application process.
For further information, contact us directly:
Phone: 01223 660046 or freephone 0800 0 255 144
Email: ed@manaeducation.co.uk
Your privacy is important to us – we never share or discuss your information without written consent.
Ready to Join Us?
If you're a Head of Department seeking flexible supply or permanent positions in Cambridge, apply now to discover a variety of opportunities. Schools in need of Heads of Department can also reach out to discuss staffing requirements.
Our Commitment to Quality and Safeguarding
Mana Education is REC Education-audited and authorised by the Government Commercial Agency (GCA). We pride ourselves on fair pay and strict compliance, ensuring safe, rewarding placements for both teachers and students.
Safeguarding
Mana Education is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and vulnerable individuals. All teaching assignments go through a comprehensive vetting process, including Enhanced DBS Checks, List 99 checks, Overseas Police Checks (where applicable), and Professional References.
Diversity and Inclusion
As an equal opportunity employer, Mana Education is dedicated to fostering a diverse and inclusive workplace. We believe a commitment to diversity strengthens our organisation and the schools we serve.
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