Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and teach Modern Studies and Politics at all levels, inspiring students to excel.
- Company: Join the vibrant ESMS family of independent schools in Edinburgh, dedicated to holistic education.
- Benefits: Enjoy access to fitness facilities, discounts at 130,000 locations, and a supportive work environment.
- Why this job: Be part of a community that values kindness, resilience, and innovation while shaping future leaders.
- Qualifications: Candidates must demonstrate a right to work in the UK and embody ESMS values.
- Other info: Applications close on February 6, 2025; interviews scheduled for the week of February 24, 2025.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The following content displays a map of the job’s location – Edinburgh.
Job Reference: schooltalent/TP/11692/1593
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Full Time Permanent
Remuneration is dependent on skills and experience.
Working Hours: Full Time
Location: Edinburgh
Closing Date: 06/02/2025
Department:
Region / Division: ESMS
Job Role: Teaching
The Role
The Mary Erskine School is seeking to appoint a Head of Modern Studies on a full-time, permanent basis from August 2025.
The Head of Modern Studies will teach Modern Studies and Politics at all levels, up to and including Advanced Higher. They are also responsible for providing leadership to, and management of, members of the department.
To learn more about this role, please access the job description provided.
ESMS is unable to sponsor the employment of international workers in this role. International applicants will therefore be unable to apply for and secure a Skilled Worker visa. The successful candidate will only be able to take up this role if they can demonstrate an alternative right to work in the UK.
Staff are offered a range of benefits including: use of the Schools’ swimming pool and fitness room outside school hours, and membership of the ESMS Discount and Benefits Scheme, including a range of discounts at 130,000 retail and entertainment locations, as well as access to our EAP provider, Care First.
Values
We are looking for individuals who can embody and promote ESMS values of Kindness, Confidence, Resilience, Integrity, and Curiosity while role modeling behaviors in line with our school pillars of Ambition, Innovation, and Community.
ESMS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and Disclosure Scotland.
All staff working at ESMS have direct access to young people; therefore, all posts within the school are considered exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.
The closing date for applications is 12pm on Thursday, 6 February 2025. We anticipate interviews will be held week commencing Monday, 24 February 2025.
About ESMS
Welcome to the ESMS, a vibrant family of independent schools for 3-18 year olds in the heart of Edinburgh. We offer a co-educational nursery and junior school, single-sex but closely twinned secondary education, and a co-educational sixth form. At the ESMS family of schools, we pride ourselves on our holistic approach to education, which means that we place as much emphasis on opportunities and activities outside of the classroom as we do on what happens in class. We offer over 300 clubs and societies as well as wide-ranging opportunities in sport, music and drama, outdoor education, trips and community involvement, all with the intention of helping your child discover their talents, learn or explore something new, have fun, and make new friends.
Our Vision
Our vision is to empower learners within our community through innovative approaches and transformative experiences, cultivating creativity, critical thinking, and collaboration. Through a dynamic education and a culture of determination, we inspire students to dream big, set ambitious goals, and surpass their own expectations, ensuring every child has the opportunity to excel and achieve a fulfilling, successful life, whatever path they choose.
Our Mission
Our mission is to develop resilient, accomplished, and values-driven students equipped with the knowledge, skills, and mindset to lead full, happy lives and shape a better world.
Aims
- We offer an outstanding, well-rounded education to a diverse group of children.
- We take time to build strong relationships and to help our children feel happy, safe, and secure so that they thrive emotionally, socially, and academically.
- We provide an unrivaled range of activities outside the classroom, enabling our children to discover and develop their natural talents.
- We inspire children to aim high and achieve strong academic results.
- We give children every opportunity to seize and embrace every challenge that life throws at them.
- Our teachers inspire innovative thinkers with a love of learning that will last a lifetime.
- Our children develop the confidence to use their voices.
- Our five values embed character, inspiring children to develop good hearts, make good decisions, and improve the world around them.
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Head of Modern Studies employer: George Watson's College
Contact Detail:
George Watson's College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Modern Studies
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarize yourself with the ESMS values of Kindness, Confidence, Resilience, Integrity, and Curiosity. During your interactions, whether in interviews or networking, demonstrate how you embody these values in your teaching and leadership style.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the current trends and challenges in Modern Studies and Politics education. Being able to discuss contemporary issues and innovative teaching methods will show your commitment to the subject and your readiness to lead the department.
✨Tip Number 3
Connect with current or former staff members at ESMS through professional networks like LinkedIn. Gaining insights into the school culture and expectations can help you tailor your approach and demonstrate your genuine interest in the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your leadership experience and how you've successfully managed teams in the past. Highlight specific examples where you've fostered collaboration and innovation within a department, as this aligns with the school's mission.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Modern Studies
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Modern Studies position. Understand the responsibilities, required qualifications, and the values that ESMS promotes.
Tailor Your CV: Customize your CV to highlight relevant teaching experience, particularly in Modern Studies and Politics. Emphasize leadership roles and any experience managing a department or team.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that reflects your passion for education and aligns with the values of ESMS. Discuss how you embody Kindness, Confidence, Resilience, Integrity, and Curiosity, and provide examples of how you've demonstrated these qualities in your previous roles.
Prepare for the Interview: If selected for an interview, prepare by thinking about how you would lead the Modern Studies department. Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy, strategies for engaging students, and how you would contribute to the school community.
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson's College
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As the Head of Modern Studies, you'll be responsible for leading a department. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for Education
Express your enthusiasm for teaching Modern Studies and Politics. Share your vision for how you can inspire students and contribute to their academic success, aligning with ESMS's mission and values.
✨Emphasize Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Given the importance of child protection at ESMS, be ready to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices and how you prioritize the welfare of students in your teaching and leadership.
✨Align with ESMS Values
Familiarize yourself with the core values of Kindness, Confidence, Resilience, Integrity, and Curiosity. Prepare to illustrate how you embody these values in your professional life and how you would promote them within the school community.
