Head of Islamic Studies

Roles and responsibilities

1. Leadership and Department Management

• Curriculum Development and Oversight: Develop, implement, and continually review the Islamic Studies curriculum, ensuring it aligns with national educational standards, and reflects the values of the school and Islamic teachings. The curriculum should cover areas such as the Qur'an, Hadith, Islamic history, jurisprudence (Fiqh), and Islamic ethics.
• Teaching Excellence: Lead the Islamic Studies department by setting high standards for teaching and learning. Monitor the quality of lessons, ensuring teachers are using effective teaching strategies and providing students with an enriching educational experience.
• Teacher Support and Development: Provide leadership and support to Islamic Studies teachers, offering professional development opportunities, mentoring, and regular feedback to improve teaching practices and student outcomes.
• Resource Management: Oversee the procurement and management of resources, including textbooks, digital tools, and teaching aids, ensuring the department is well-equipped to deliver engaging and effective lessons.

2. Academic Oversight and Student Achievement

• Monitoring Student Progress: Track and monitor student performance across the Islamic Studies curriculum, ensuring students achieve their potential. Review student assessments, homework, and classwork to ensure that progress is being made in line with curriculum expectations.
• Setting Targets: Establish academic targets for students and ensure these targets are clearly communicated to both students and teachers. Monitor progress toward these goals and implement support strategies for students who need additional help or enrichment.
• Assessments and Feedback: Develop and administer assessments that evaluate students' understanding of Islamic teachings and their ability to apply this knowledge. Provide constructive feedback to students on their work and guide them in areas for improvement.
• Promote Islamic Values: Ensure that the teaching of Islamic values, ethics, and character-building is embedded throughout the curriculum, not just in religious studies lessons, but across the entire school ethos.

3. Pastoral Care and Spiritual Development

• Fostering Spiritual Growth: Promote the spiritual and moral development of students by encouraging reflection on Islamic teachings, personal growth, and the practice of good character (Akhlaq). Lead by example in demonstrating Islamic values of respect, compassion, honesty, and social responsibility.
• Student Support: Provide pastoral care for students, guiding them through issues that may arise, and offering advice on personal, spiritual, or academic matters. Ensure students’ emotional and mental well-being is considered in the context of Islamic teachings.
• Encouraging Involvement: Organize activities such as Islamic events, community service, and other initiatives that foster a sense of Islamic community and belonging within the school. Encourage students to participate in activities that enhance their understanding of Islam in everyday life.
• Ramadan and Religious Observances: Oversee the celebration of Islamic religious events such as Ramadan, Eid, and other significant holidays, ensuring that students can observe these occasions with respect and in line with school policies.

Desired candidate profile

• Deep Knowledge of Islam: A strong, in-depth understanding of Islamic teachings, history, jurisprudence (Fiqh), and the Qur'an.
• Leadership and Management: Strong leadership skills, with the ability to manage and motivate a team of teachers and foster a collaborative, effective working environment.
• Teaching and Pedagogical Skills: Expertise in delivering engaging and effective lessons in Islamic Studies, with the ability to differentiate teaching based on students’ needs and levels of understanding.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal, for engaging with students, staff, parents, and the wider community.
• Organizational Skills: Highly organized with the ability to manage resources, timetables, events, and student progress effectively.
• Problem-Solving and Conflict Resolution: Ability to handle complex pastoral issues, student concerns, and classroom challenges with sensitivity and professionalism.
• Cultural Sensitivity: An understanding and respect for the diverse cultural and religious backgrounds of students, ensuring that Islamic teachings are accessible and inclusive.

Personal Attributes

• Passion for Islamic Education: A deep passion for teaching Islamic Studies and promoting Islamic values within the school community.
• Empathy and Supportiveness: Approachable, empathetic, and supportive, with a focus on nurturing the spiritual and academic growth of students.
• Commitment to Continuous Learning: A commitment to ongoing professional and personal development, with a desire to grow as a leader and educator.
• Role Model: A role model who embodies Islamic values and demonstrates them in interactions with students, staff, and the wider community.