Salary: GDST Middle Leaders’ scale (FTE - £57,414 to £73,083 per annum), dependent on experience, and subject to 26.27 annual pay award

Contract: Fixed term and full time

Required from: April or September 2026

We are looking for a dynamic, innovative, and well-qualified Head of History and Politics to lead our highly successful, vibrant department.

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the ability to model and promote outstanding teaching and learning; will have the skills to support and empower their team; and will have the vision to play a key role in the strategic leadership of History and Politics, both in the classroom and beyond.

Through the study of History at Putney students gain not only an understanding of the past but of the world in which they find themselves today. In our teaching, we place great importance on the role of debate and discussion, developing a deep enjoyment of academic challenge, and engendering a passion for uncovering the past.

The same commitment to debate and discussion permeates our Politics lessons, alongside an enjoyment of the fast-changing nature of the study of politics. This approach, and our thriving Politics Society, contributes to the ongoing popularity of A-Level Politics.

About the School

As one of the UK’s leading schools, Putney High School is rightly proud of its exceptional academic results and pastoral care. A spirit of intellectual agility and engagement is at the heart of the school’s ethos, with pupils stretched, challenged, and supported inside the classroom and beyond.

The school is set in leafy, tranquil grounds close to the heart of Putney and to the River Thames.

The school is part of the GDST, the UK’s leading network of independent girls’ schools. We can offer a variety of benefits, such as:

• Competitive salaries and pay progression

• Competitive terms and conditions of employment

• Generous pension scheme

• Free life assurance benefit

• A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools

• Access to extensive professional development opportunities

• Training grants for qualifications

• Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and season ticket loans

• A Cycle to Work scheme

• Retail and lifestyle discounts

• Financial guidance and support

• 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme

For further information about the school, role and person, please refer to the Head of History & Politics (Maternity Cover) Candidate Brief under the Attachments.

To apply for this exciting opportunity please click 'Apply'.

Applications must be received by Wednesday 04 February 2026 at 9am.

Interview date: Thursday 12 February 2026.

Putney High School and the GDST are committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.

Putney High School are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including online checks, checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.