Secondary School Director of Literacy

**Job Description**

The **Director of Global Literacy** will lead the strategic development and delivery of literacy across the Secondary School (ages 11–18) in a high-performing bilingual school. The role focuses on raising standards of reading, writing, oracy, and academic language across all subjects, ensuring students can access both international and Chinese curricula with confidence.

This is a whole-school leadership role with a strong emphasis on cross-curricular literacy, EAL (English as an Additional Language) development, and preparing students for success in international pathways (IGCSE, A Level, IB, or equivalent).

Key Responsibilities:

* Develop and implement a whole-school literacy strategy aligned with the school’s bilingual ethos
* Lead on academic English development, ensuring students can access subject-specific language across disciplines
* Work closely with Heads of Department to embed literacy within all subject areas (e.g. humanities, sciences, mathematics)
* Oversee provision for **EAL learners**, including intervention programmes and differentiation strategies
* Promote a culture of reading for pleasure and academic reading across the Secondary School
* Design and deliver **staff CPD** focused on effective literacy teaching in a bilingual context
* Monitor and analyse student progress data related to literacy, implementing targeted improvement plans
* Support students in developing extended writing, critical thinking, and oracy skills
* Collaborate with the Primary School to ensure continuity and progression in literacy
* Lead initiatives such as reading programmes, writing competitions, and public speaking opportunities
* Engage with parents to support literacy development beyond the classroom

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Requirements

* Bachelor’s degree or above in English, Education, or a related field
* Recognised teaching qualification (e.g. PGCE, QTS, or equivalent)
* Significant experience teaching English and/or leading literacy in a Secondary School setting
* Proven track record of raising attainment in literacy across a school or department
* Strong understanding of **EAL pedagogy** and bilingual education environments
* Experience with international curricula (e.g. IGCSE, A Level, IB)
* Ability to lead and influence staff across multiple departments
* Experience delivering effective CPD and coaching teachers
* Excellent communication and organisational skills
* A collaborative and culturally sensitive approach to working in an international setting

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Benefits

* Competitive salary package aligned with international school standards in Shanghai
* Housing allowance or provided accommodation
* Annual return flights
* Medical insurance
* Relocation support
* Tuition support for dependent children (where applicable)
* Access to high-quality CPD and career progression opportunities
* Opportunity to work in a dynamic, international and bilingual school environment