Head of English Department

JOB DESCRIPTION: HEAD OF ENGLISH DEPARTMENT
JOB TITLE: Head of English Department
REPORTS TO: Head of Academic Affairs
LOCATION: IMAS International School Kuala Lumpur
DEPARTMENT: (Primary & Secondary)
PURPOSE

The Head of English Department is responsible for leading and overseeing the English
curriculum across the Primary and Secondary schools at IMAS. The role ensures high
standards of literacy, language proficiency, and critical engagement with texts, in
alignment with IMAS’s motto of “Beyond Academic Excellence”. The role includes
designing and managing intensive English programmes for non-native speakers,
promoting reading culture, and equipping students with the language skills necessary
for academic success, confident communication, and global citizenship.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
1. Curriculum Design and Implementation
● Lead the planning, development, and review of the English curriculum for both
Primary and Secondary sections.
● Ensure alignment with international standards (e.g., Cambridge Primary,
Checkpoint, IGCSE, A-Level).
● Design progression of reading, writing, speaking, listening, grammar, and
vocabulary across all grade levels.
● Oversee the delivery of the Intensive English Programme for non-native
speakers, including placement testing, instructional materials, and exit criteria.
● Promote integration of language learning across the curriculum and coordinate
with other subject heads to support English Language Learners (ELLs).
2. Reading and Literacy Development
● Develop and monitor a whole-school Reading Framework that includes guided
reading, shared reading, and independent reading strategies.
● Set ambitious benchmarks for reading fluency, comprehension, and vocabulary
development.
● Oversee reading assessments, reading intervention plans, and the selection of
appropriate reading materials.
● Collaborate with class teachers and English staff to support differentiated
instruction in reading.
● Promote a culture of reading through initiatives such as reading corners, book
clubs, library programmes, and reading challenges.

3. Teaching and Learning Quality Assurance
● Lead a team of English teachers across both divisions, ensuring consistency in
teaching quality, assessment, and resource use.
● Conduct lesson observations, book reviews, and student work audits regularly.
● Ensure effective implementation of daily lesson procedures, marking policies, and
unit planning expectations.
● Provide feedback, coaching, and professional development to English teachers.
● Introduce innovative and engaging strategies in English teaching that cater to a
range of learners, including ELLs and high achievers.
4. Assessment and Data Use
● Design and monitor the department’s formative and summative assessment
practices.
● Track and analyse reading and writing performance data to identify gaps and
plan interventions.
● Prepare students for internal and external examinations, including Checkpoint
and IGCSE English papers.
● Maintain student performance tracking systems and provide regular progress
updates to the Head of Academic Affairs.
5. Programme Management and Development
● Oversee staffing, timetabling, and resource allocation for both Primary and
Secondary English programmes.
● Lead the planning of English-based events such as Reading Week, Speech
Competitions, Spelling Bees, and Literary Exhibitions.
● Collaborate with the Head of Academic Affairs in strategic planning, resource
procurement, and programme evaluation.
● Align department goals with IMAS’s values, including character development
through literature and reflective expression.
6. Support for English Language Learners (ELLs)
● Identify, assess, and monitor ELLs from admission through progression.
● Design differentiated lesson plans and materials for ELLs in both primary and
secondary.
● Provide professional development to staff in ELL instructional strategies.
● Support parents of ELL students in understanding their child’s language
development journey.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE
● Bachelor’s Degree in English, Education, TESOL, or a related field (required)
● Minimum 3 years experience in Educational Leadership, English Literature,
Linguistics, or a related field (preferred)
● Minimum 5 years of teaching experience in English (at least 2 in a leadership role)
● Experience teaching both primary and secondary students is an advantage
● Strong knowledge of Cambridge curriculum and second language acquisition
● Proven ability to lead literacy initiatives and reading improvement programmes

KEY RELATIONSHIPS
● Head of Academic Affairs
● Head of Primary and Secondary School
● Deputy Heads (Academic and Pastoral)
● English Teachers (Primary & Secondary)
● ELL Coordinators / Support Staff
● Parents and Guardians
CORE COMPETENCIES
● Passion for literacy and language development
● Strategic thinking and departmental leadership
● Data-driven instruction and intervention planning
● Strong organizational and communication skills
● Cultural sensitivity and understanding of multilingual learning environments
● Commitment to excellence, reflection, and continuous improvement
PERFORMANCE INDICATORS
● Student progress in reading, writing, and language usage (internal and external
assessments)
● Effectiveness of the Intensive English Programme (measured through placement
outcomes and exit data)
● Departmental consistency in planning, instruction, and assessment
● Quality and engagement in reading-related initiatives
● Professional development impact and teacher performance in the department
● Student feedback and classroom observation outcomes
● Contribution to whole-school literacy and language goals