Overview

Required from January 2026 Part Time - Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays - Maternity Cover. Competitive salary plus benefits. This is a rare and sought-after opportunity to join the English Department at Sydenham High. The Department comprises a mix of full-time and part-time staff and focuses on inspiring students through a wide range of literary experiences.We value diverse perspectives and voices reflective of our school community. The department uses creative teaching methods to help every girl find success and joy in their studies. We run clubs and societies including Literature Society, Creative Writing, Debating, Oxbridge extension and academic support clinics. Each year we enter clubs and competitions both within GDST and nationally. Trips to the theatre and workshops enrich our pupils.The candidate should show initiative and be prepared to innovate in the classroom and in the field. We are seeking an experienced Key Stage 3 teacher who would be available part-time (3 days a week as indicated above) for the maternity leave period. The preferred start date is January 2026.

Why Sydenham High School

Established in 1887, Sydenham High is an independent day school for girls aged 4-18 with over 700 pupils. The school is part of the Girls\'' Day School Trust (GDST), the leading group of independent girls\'' schools in the UK. The GDST promotes opportunities for young women and the school is committed to helping every girl reach her full academic potential.Our rich and diverse curriculum, with extensive enrichment outside of lessons, develops the skills and personal attributes to prepare students for an ever-changing society. We are ambitious and forward-thinking, offering outstanding education and strong pastoral care. Tolerance and mutual respect are core values, alongside a contemporary, innovative approach to educating the whole child. We offer a competitive salary and benefits package and a strong professional development programme.

Benefits

Competitive salaries and pay progressionAccess to extensive professional development opportunitiesTraining grants for qualificationsGenerous pension schemesFree school lunchesFinancial guidance and supportRetail and lifestyle discountsA discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools

Responsibilities

Teach Key Stage 3 English on a part-time basis (Mondays, Tuesdays and Thursdays) for maternity coverPlan and deliver engaging lessons using a variety of teaching methods to support student successSupport and participate in clubs, societies and enrichment activities within the departmentCollaborate with colleagues to maintain high standards of teaching and learningContribute to the department’s philosophy of creative and inclusive education

Qualifications

Experience teaching Key Stage 3 EnglishAvailable part-time (3 days per week) for the maternity leave periodInitiative, adaptability and willingness to innovate in the classroomEvidence of commitment to safeguarding and child protection checks as required

Application Details

For more details, please contact hr@syd.gdst.net or the School Office on 0208 557 7000. We reserve the right to interview at any point during the recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged. Applications should be received no later than 9am on Wednesday 8 October 2025. References for candidates invited to interview will be taken before the interview. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. To be eligible for employment, candidates must provide proof of their right to work in the UK. The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change and safeguarding of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo safeguarding checks as appropriate to the post, including online checks and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

#J-18808-Ljbffr