St John's School, Sidmouth - English Teacher - Senior School

Summary

St John’s School, Sidmouth, is seeking to appoint an exceptional and inspiring Teacher of English to join our Senior School from September 2026.

Detail

Hours: Full Time | Permanent | Term Time

Salary: Competitive package to include: Aviva pension, discount on school fees (subject to terms), Employee Assistance Programme, staff well-being initiatives, free lunch, refreshments, and on-site parking

This is an exciting opportunity to become part of a close-knit and ambitious school community where academic excellence is nurtured within a culture of warmth, respect and strong pastoral care.

A Message from the Head of School

At St John’s, we believe great teaching has the power to shape confidence, character and ambition. Our small classes create space for meaningful relationships and genuine academic growth. We are proud of our warm, purposeful community and look forward to welcoming a colleague who shares our passion for English and for inspiring young people to achieve their very best.

Bryan Kane, Head of School

The Opportunity

At St John’s, we believe English lies at the heart of intellectual confidence. We are looking for a teacher who can inspire a love of language and literature, foster critical thinking, and prepare pupils with care and rigour for Cambridge IGCSE English Language and English Literature.

The successful candidate will teach across Years 7–11, delivering engaging and thoughtfully structured lessons that challenge and support pupils of varying abilities. Small class sizes allow teachers to know their pupils well and tailor learning accordingly.

In addition to classroom teaching, the role includes:

• Acting as a Form Tutor, supporting pupils’ academic and personal development
• Contributing to curriculum development within the English department
• Engaging in the co-curricular and boarding life of the School
• Boarding responsibilities are light and manageable, reflecting our supportive community ethos.

The Person

We are seeking a teacher who:

• Has outstanding subject knowledge in English Language and Literature
• Has successful experience teaching at secondary level (Years 7–11)
• Is confident preparing pupils for Cambridge IGCSE (or equivalent qualifications)
• Values high expectations, calm structure and positive relationships
• Is committed to pastoral care and the development of the whole child
• Is keen to contribute to the wider life of a vibrant independent school
• A recognised teaching qualification (QTS or equivalent) and relevant degree are essential.

Why St John’s?

St John’s offers:

• Small classes and personalised learning
• A strong sense of community and belonging
• A culture that values kindness, respect and ambition
• Supportive leadership and ongoing professional development
• The opportunity to make a visible difference in pupils’ lives

Accommodation may be available for single applicants, subject to availability and boarding contribution.

Safeguarding

St John’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff are expected to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

How to Apply

Further details and an application pack are available via our website. We warmly encourage early applications.

Closing date: Friday 1 May 2026 - noon

Interviews: Anticipated for week commencing 11 May 2026

Documents

• Application Form Self Declaration PDF Document
• Application form - Teaching PDF Document
• English teacher job and person spec PDF Document