Downside School - Learning Support Teacher

Summary

We are currently seeking to fill the position of Learning Support Teacher at Downside School.

Detail

Downside School has a vacancy for a Learning Support Teacher to join the School on a fulltime, permanent contract from September 2026.

The successful candidate will assist the learning Support department and be able to provide 1:1 support and lead small groups of pupils with a range of learning difficulties. It is essential that the appointed person is passionate about helping pupils develop as learners in a highly supportive and academically ambitious school environment.

You must be comfortable supporting the secondary school GCSE curriculum. The ability to support Maths and Science would be an advantage. The successful candidate should possess the drive and determination to enthuse all pupils to reach the highest standards.

We are looking for someone who:

• Demonstrates excellent knowledge of Learning Support.
• Has a specialism and experience in supporting pupils with literacy difficulties, some of whom will also have SEND.
• Has an ability to raise the achievement of our pupils alongside their subject teachers.
• Inspires and motivates pupils to strive for the best.
• Has excellent behaviour management and the ability to quickly build rapport with pupils.
• Embraces our Benedictine, Catholic ethos.

We can offer the successful candidate:

• Competitive salary in line with independent school pay scales.
• Complimentary lunch.
• Complimentary access to on-site leisure facilities, including swimming pool, gym & squash courts.
• Opportunities for additional CPD as well as pastoral and wider-curricular involvement.
• Free on-site parking.
• Employee assistance programme.
• Mentoring and support from experienced senior managers and existing lead coaches.
• A supportive, skilled, and innovative staff team.
• Motivated, hard-working pupils.
• An impressive working environment with extensive landscaped grounds.
• Opportunity to be part of welcoming and supportive workforce.

Closing date for applications: 11 June 2026 (23.59)

Please note that applications will be considered on receipt, and as a result the vacancy may close early should an appointment be made. As such we would recommend submitting your application as soon as possible

To Apply

Please complete your application through our applicant tracking system, using the apply button. CVs are not accepted. Applications must be completed in full to include full employment history, education history and contact details for referees for current and most recent employer.

About Downside School

Nestled in the beautiful Somerset countryside just 25 minutes from Bath, Downside School is a historic Catholic independent school founded in 1606. Our Benedictine ethos fosters integrity, independent thinking, and service, creating a happy, inspiring environment where pupils thrive academically and through over 70 co-curricular activities. With facilities like a 400-seat theatre, indoor pool, and 24/7 Health Centre, we nurture motivated learners in a supportive community praised by the ISI for excellent staff-pupil relationships.

By car, we are within 40 minutes of Bristol, 30 minutes of Bath and 15 minutes of Wells.

Application Process

Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interviews. Downside School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references. We encourage applications from diverse backgrounds.

Registered Company No. 11751009 and Registered Charity No: 1184700