Downside School - Teacher of History

Summary

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

Detail

Teacher of History Part Time (0.6 FTE)

Start Date: September 2026

We have a vacancy for a part time Teacher of History in a small but well-resourced and innovative Department. It remains a popular option at both GCSE and A Level.

You will either be an experienced Teacher of History or Early Career Teacher who has the ability to teach History to Years 7 to 13, and up to A Level and Oxbridge entrance level. You will be an effective team member, who can help to promote History by means of academic enrichment and is willing to seek opportunities to develop teaching and learning within the subject. The Department has achieved consistent and notable results in recent years, with 50% achieving an A grade at A Level in 2025, and 76% achieving 9-6 at GCSE.

We are looking for someone who:

• will enjoy engaging with pupils outside of the classroom, for example helping to deliver our co-curricular programme and tutor responsibilities, which are a requirement of the role.
• demonstrates excellent subject knowledge.
• will engender an atmosphere within lessons which is conducive to active learning and encourage pupils to learn collaboratively.
• is dynamic, creative, and inspirational, motivating pupils to strive for the best.
• will be committed to their own professional development.
• has an appreciation of the ethos of a Catholic and Benedictine boarding school.

We can offer:

• a competitive pay scale.
• an excellent catering facility, which offers all our staff a complimentary lunch.
• a free employee assistance programme.
• a supportive, skilled, and innovative staff team.
• an inspiring, intellectually rewarding work environment.
• pupils with highly developed social skills and self-confidence.
• plenty of opportunities for CPD, and pastoral and wider-curricular involvement.
• complimentary access to onsite leisure facilities including indoor swimming pool, gym and squash courts.

Closing date for applications: 26 June 2026

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.

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.

Registered Company No. 11751009 and Registered Charity No: 1184700