At a Glance
- Tasks: Provide healthcare support to students in a vibrant boarding school environment.
- Company: Downe House, a leading independent school for girls aged 11-18.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous pension, free meals, and discounted school fees.
- Other info: Join a supportive team in a beautiful semi-rural location.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the health and wellbeing of young women.
- Qualifications: Registered nurse with experience working with young people.
The predicted salary is between 24.99 - 24.99 £ per hour.
Required full time 40 hours per week from December 2026, term time only. Basic salary for 40 hours a week, term time only = £30,460.32, plus 30% enhanced rate of £24.99 per hour for working from 8pm, overnight and weekend shifts.
Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based in Cold Ash, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and co-curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women prepared to take on the world.
We have an exciting opportunity for a School Nurse to join our nursing team. We are fortunate to have a purpose-built Health Centre on site which operates 24 hours a day, 7 days a week during term time. In this role you will work as part of a friendly, professional team looking after the medical needs of up to 550 boarding and day pupils, aged 11 - 18. Shift patterns will include 'earlies' (7.00am - 2.30pm), 'lates' (2.00pm - 9.30pm), night shifts (9.15pm - 7.15am) and weekends. Usually, you will work 1 weekend shift (day or night) every other weekend.
To be successful in this role, you will need to be a Registered professional and hold a current NMC pin. We require an individual who has previous nursing experience, and experience of working with young people aged 11 - 18 would be beneficial. The post would not be suitable for a newly qualified nurse. We are looking for someone who will be happy to get fully involved with the community of our busy boarding school.
As well as working on our regular doctor surgeries, this post offers an interesting opportunity for you to get involved in a specialist area relating to the health and wellbeing of girls/young women. The school is committed to staff CPD, and the department will offer additional training as required.
Benefits Include:
- Generous pension scheme, with employer contributions at 9%
- Delicious free meals while on duty
- Life insurance & critical illness cover
- Discounted school fees
- A supportive induction programme
- Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
- Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
- A variety of social occasions throughout the year
Applicants must have the right to work in the UK. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, and social media checks. At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.
School Nurse - Full Time from December 2026 at Downe House in Thatcham employer: Downe House
Downe House offers a supportive and nurturing environment for its staff, prioritising the wellbeing of both employees and pupils. As a School Nurse, you will benefit from a collaborative work culture, opportunities for professional development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on the health of young people in a picturesque Berkshire setting. With flexible shift patterns and a commitment to staff welfare, Downe House is an excellent employer for those seeking a rewarding career in education and healthcare.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land School Nurse - Full Time from December 2026 at Downe House in Thatcham
✨Tap into Local Healthcare Networks
Getting involved with local healthcare communities is a game-changer for nursing roles. Join nursing associations or attend local events and workshops where you can meet fellow professionals and potential employers. It’s all about building those connections – your next full-time gig could be just a chat away!
✨Showcase Your Skills in Real-Life Settings
Consider volunteering at clinics or hospitals if you can squeeze in some time. Not only does this help you gain practical experience, but it also shows your commitment to patient care. Plus, it’s a fantastic way to network and potentially land a full-time role at a facility you enjoy!
✨Use LinkedIn like a Pro
Make your LinkedIn profile pop by highlighting your nursing skills prominently. Share articles, insights, or case studies that demonstrate your knowledge in patient care. Engaging with content in nursing forums can also put you on the radar of recruiters looking for full-time talent like you!
✨Direct Applications are Key!
When you spot a role that excites you, don't hold back – apply directly through our website! Tailor your application to show off how your specific experiences align with the needs at Downe House for the School Nurse - Full Time from December 2026 at Downe House role. Companies appreciate candidates who take initiative and show genuine interest!
We think you need these skills to ace School Nurse - Full Time from December 2026 at Downe House in Thatcham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Qualifications:When applying for a full-time nursing role with Downe House, it's crucial to highlight your nursing qualifications. Make sure to include any relevant certifications, such as your NMC registration and any specialisations. List them front and centre on your CV so we can see your expertise at a glance!
Craft a Compassionate Cover Letter:Your cover letter is the perfect place to express your passion for patient care. Talk about your experiences, how you handle challenging situations, and your approach to teamwork. This gives us insight not just into your skills but also into your caring nature, which is essential in nursing.
Emphasise Soft Skills:In nursing, technical skills are important, but we're also keen on soft skills. Make sure to highlight your communication abilities, empathy, and problem-solving skills. These attributes are often just as critical in delivering exceptional patient care and will help differentiate you from other candidates.
Tailor Your Experience to Patient Care:When detailing your experience, be specific about your direct patient care roles. Focus on the impact you’ve made on your patients’ lives—mention specific tasks, challenges you've overcame, or improvements you’ve contributed to. This helps us visualise you in action at Downe House, and how you can make a difference!
How to prepare for a job interview at Downe House
✨Brush Up on Clinical Scenarios
In nursing, you might face questions around patient scenarios, so sharpen your clinical judgment skills. Think through common cases—like managing a patient with specific needs or handling emergencies—and be ready to articulate your approach confidently.
✨Showcase Your Soft Skills
Beyond technical skills, nursing is all about communication and empathy. Prepare to share examples from your experiences that highlight your ability to connect with patients and work effectively in a team, as this is crucial for a full-time role at Downe House.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Healthcare Regulations
Make sure you're up to speed with the latest healthcare regulations and policies relevant to your role. This knowledge not only shows your commitment to patient safety but also signals that you're proactive and engaged—qualities that full-time employers like Downe House appreciate.
✨Ask AboutCareer Development Opportunities
Since this is a full-time position, show your ambition by asking how Downe House supports growth and development. Inquire about ongoing training, mentorship programmes, or opportunities to specialise in particular areas, as this illustrates your long-term interest in nursing.
