Head of Department CV Examples
As a Head of Department, you play a central role in shaping subject vision, leading staff, and ensuring excellence in teaching, learning, and assessment.
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Head of Department CV
How to Write Your Head of Department CV
Learn how to create your own interview-winning Head of Department CV with this simple step-by-step guide.
This guide will walk you through writing a Head of Department CV that highlights your leadership experience, curriculum oversight, staff development, and contribution to whole-school or institutional improvement.
Head of Department CV example
Structuring your Head of Department CV
Your CV should reflect the same clarity, organisation, and strategic thinking you bring to departmental leadership.
Here's how to structure your Head of Department CV
- Name and contact details – Place personal information at the top so employers can reach you easily.
- CV profile – Kick things off with a concise overview of what makes you the ideal candidate for the job.
- Core skills – Quickly highlight your most relevant strengths.
- Work experience – Detail your roles in reverse chronological order, focusing on measurable results.
- Education – Provide details on your academic qualifications and relevant certifications.
- Additional info – Optionally, mention certifications, memberships, or personal projects.
Formatting your Head of Department CV
Your CV should be professional, easy to navigate, and clearly focused on leadership and impact.
Here's some useful tips to format your Head of Department CV effectively:
- Bullet points – Break down duties and achievements into concise details.
- Divide sections – Use clear headings for a straightforward layout.
- Use a clear font and colour scheme – Keep your layout uncluttered for maximum readability.
- No more than 2 pages – Keep it focused on your best and most relevant qualities.
Writing a Head of Department CV Professional summary
Your professional profile introduces you as a subject leader and manager of people.
Head of Department CV professional summaries :
Professional summary 1
Experienced Head of Department with over six years of teaching and three years of subject leadership experience. Proven track record of leading curriculum development, mentoring staff, and improving student outcomes through effective teaching and assessment strategies.
Professional summary 2
Dynamic and results-driven subject leader with strong experience in staff management, curriculum planning, and data-led improvement. Committed to fostering a collaborative departmental culture and maintaining high academic standards.
Professional summary 3
Dedicated Head of Department with extensive classroom experience and a passion for developing both students and staff. Skilled in strategic planning, performance management, and implementing initiatives that raise attainment and engagement.
What to Include In Your Head of Department CV profile:
- Leadership experience – Head of Department, Subject Lead, or Coordinator roles.
- Teaching background – Subject specialism and key stages taught.
- Curriculum leadership – Scheme of work design and assessment oversight.
- Staff management – Mentoring, appraisal, and CPD leadership.
- Departmental impact – Evidence of improved outcomes or standards.
How to Present a Head of Department Core Skills Section Properly
This section gives recruiters a snapshot of your leadership and subject expertise.
Head of Department CV Top skills
Top skills for Head of Department CV
- Departmental leadership and management
- Curriculum design and implementation
- Teaching and learning quality assurance
- Staff mentoring and performance management
- Assessment and data analysis
- Budget and resource management
- Timetabling and workload planning
- Parental and stakeholder communication
How to Write a Head of Department CV Work Experience
This is the most important part of your CV, showing how your leadership has positively impacted teaching quality and student outcomes.
Head of Department CV Work experience examples
Head of Department | School / College Name
Responsibilities
- Led a team of X teachers, overseeing curriculum planning and assessment
- Developed and implemented schemes of work aligned with national standards
- Analysed performance data to inform intervention strategies, improving attainment
- Mentored early-career teachers and supported professional development
- Managed departmental budget and learning resources effectively
Writing a Head of Department CV section
This section outlines the professional and academic foundation of your role.
Best Qualifications for Head of Department professionals
- National Professional Qualification for Middle Leadership (NPQML) / NPQSL –
- Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) –
- Bachelor's Degree in Education or subject specialism –
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) –
How to Write a Head of Department CV Certification, Awards and Publication Section
Show your commitment to continuous professional growth and leadership development.
Head of Department CV certification, Awards and Publication examples
Leadership and Management Training
Safeguarding and Child Protection Training
Curriculum and Assessment CPD
SEND and Inclusion Training
Inspection / Quality Assurance Training
How to Write a Head of Department CV Projects Section
Highlight key initiatives you have led to demonstrate leadership impact.
How to structure project descriptions
Project Title | Organisation | Duration
- Outline – Provide a brief overview of the initiative and your leadership role.
- Responsibilities – Highlight key tasks as concise one-liners incorporating measurable achievements.
Head of Department CV projects examples
Raising Attainment in English Programme | School Name | 2023–2024
Led a departmental review of teaching strategies and assessment practices
- Introduced targeted interventions and staff training
- Improved examination outcomes and student engagement across key stages
