Head of Department – Computer Science
Full time, Permanent
Qualified Teacher Pay Scale + TLR2B
Start Date: September 2026 or as soon as possible after
West Somerset College is seeking an inspiring and forward-thinking Head of Computer Science to lead the department. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious professional who is passionate about developing an outstanding curriculum and ensuring exceptional outcomes for young people.
About the Role
As Head of Department, you will play a key leadership role in shaping the strategic direction of Computer Science across Key Stages 4 and 5. You will lead curriculum development, raise standards in teaching and learning, and ensure every student is supported to achieve their full potential.
You will:
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Provide outstanding leadership to establish a highly effective, innovative Computer Science department.
- Drive curriculum development, teaching quality and assessment practice.
- Monitor student progress across the year and implement effective intervention strategies.
- Lead and support your team through high-quality coaching, appraisal and professional development.
- Ensure the department offers a productive, engaging and safe learning environment.
- Contribute to whole-school self-evaluation, strategic planning and quality assurance.
- Manage departmental resources, budget planning and exam entries efficiently.
- Promote high expectations, excellent behaviour and a positive culture of achievement.
This role is ideal for an experienced middle leader or an aspiring leader ready for their next challenge.
About You
We are looking for someone who:
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Is an excellent Computer Science practitioner with a strong academic background.
- Has experience of successful leadership at senior or middle level.
- Can evidence improving outcomes, leading change and raising standards.
- Has strong knowledge of contemporary pedagogy and curriculum design.
- Uses data effectively to set high expectations and track student progress.
- Demonstrates outstanding interpersonal, organisational and ICT skills.
- Is committed to safeguarding, equality, and the Trust’s values-driven ethos.
- Brings energy, enthusiasm, resilience and a passion for developing both staff and students.
Why Join Us?
At West Somerset College, you will find:
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A supportive and collaborative leadership team.
- A welcoming school located in the beautiful coastal town of Minehead.
- Employee Reward Scheme including high-street discounts and a staff wellbeing centre.
- Teachers' Pension Scheme
Informal discussions and visits to the school are warmly encouraged, please contact
[email protected] to arrange.
Closing Date for applications: Thursday 18th June 2026 at 11:59pm
Anticipated interview date: W/C 22nd June 2026
We believe in hiring for potential and this means that we value individuals for the knowledge skills and experience that they have developed in every aspect of their lives. If you don’t feel that you meet all of the criteria listed in the person specification, we would still encourage you to apply.
We care about our staff and provide a number of benefits in addition to salary including a positive and supportive working environment, generous employer pension contributions, on-site gyms, free parking, access to a retail discounts platform and Employee Assistance Programme. Helping you achieve a good work life balance is important to us. Lots of our colleagues work flexibly including part time hours and/or job shares and we are happy to discuss these opportunities with you.
We truly believe that diversity of thought, culture, background and perspective secure the best outcomes for our students. We strive to build teams that represent our local communities and welcome applications from individuals who identify as members of an under-represented group and in particular individuals who identify as BAME, disabled or LGBT. We are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
Bridgwater & Taunton College Trust is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share its commitment. Our mission is that all children achieve. This post is exempt from Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (1974). A comprehensive screening process will be undertaken on all applicants, which will include a check with the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
