At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire students by teaching History and Politics in a dynamic classroom environment.
- Company: Join Fettes College, a prestigious co-educational school in Edinburgh.
- Benefits: Part-time role with potential for growth and competitive salary based on experience.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives while developing your teaching skills.
- Qualifications: Must be GTCS registered or eligible; passion for teaching is essential.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant community focused on academic and personal growth.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 36000 ÂŁ per year.
Overview
Teacher of History and Politics (from January 2026 or sooner)
Job Reference: schooltalent/TP/285/2153
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Fixed Term, Part Time, Term Time. Commensurate with skills and experience.
Location: Edinburgh
Closing Date: 29/10/2025
Department: History
Region / Division:
Job Role: Teaching
Package Description
Conditions of the Appointment
The appointment will date from January 2026 or sooner, depending on availability.
The role is part time for the remainder of this academic year, with scope to extend into next year depending on staffing needs.
Salary will be by negotiation and will depend on the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate.
Employment will be subject to one term’s notice on either side.
All applicants must be either registered with GTCS or eligible for GTCS registration. If you are unsure of your eligibility you should check the GTCS website: www.gtcs.org.uk before applying.
Other details and conditions of service will be discussed at interview.
The Role
This is an exciting opportunity to join a thriving History and Politics Department. The successful candidate will be an excellent classroom practitioner who can inspire students of all abilities and demonstrate a real enthusiasm for History and Politics.
Academic ability and rigour, a passion for learning and an enthusiastic approach to classroom teaching will be vital qualities for the successful applicant. We are looking for a 0.4 FTE (Full Time Equivalent) to teach History and Politics for the remainder of this academic year due to changes in our staffing needs. There may be scope to continue this role in the next academic year, and even to increase hours, as our staffing needs develop.
Main Responsibilities
Please see the full Job Description for duties and responsibilities for this role.
The Ideal Candidate
The Ideal Candidate
Successful applicants for a teaching post at Fettes would be expected to have the following characteristics:
- Ambitious, diligent, keen to develop their existing talents
- Willing to embrace new experiences
- Understand the commitment required of a boarding environment
- Enthusiastic to become involved in all aspects of school life
About the school/organisation
ABOUT FETTES
Fettes College is a leading HMC co-educational boarding and day school close to the heart of Edinburgh. It has a strong tradition of academic, sporting and cultural excellence underpinned by outstanding pastoral care. Fettes opened its doors in 1870 and became fully co-educational in 1980: it is now an independent school of some 785 students. There are 594 students in the Senior School (13-18 years) and 191 students in the Preparatory School (7-13 years). Fettes follows the English curriculum of GCSEs, and the dual pathway of A Levels and IB. Our full-boarding ethos ensures weekends are vibrant and fun.
The academic staff in the Senior School consists of the Head and 91 full-time members of the Common Room. Our Prep School shares the same site and consists of a further 29 full-time teaching staff. Fettes is a collaborative community in which every member is working towards fully realising their potential whilst supporting those around them.
The school stands on a stunning and secure 100-acre site, but still within walking distance of Edinburgh’s city centre. The historic main building holds the Chapel, Library, the English, Classics and History Departments as well as the Medical Centre and two boarding houses. A large purpose-built teaching block (the Spens Building) houses Art, Modern Languages, Mathematics, Economics, Geography and Music. The Theatre, Science Laboratories and Dining Hall are adjacent. The Preparatory School and seven further boarding houses (including a purpose-built co-educational U6th House) are also on the campus. Our sports facilities (including extensive playing fields, two all-weather pitches and a private Health Club) are excellent.
We have a commitment to build even more ground-breaking facilities, including a Wellbeing Centre and construction of new Science and Innovation buildings.
As well as our teaching staff we employ over 220 Operational Staff across the many departments, including Estates, Security, Housekeeping, Finance, Admissions and Marketing with a pervading sense of community amongst staff, students and parents alike.
OUR VISION
We have created and developed a bold new vision for Fettes, one which focuses on what we believe Fettesians should aspire to be, the skills they will need in life and the impact we want them to make in the world.
We have called this vision Fettes Moving Forward: A place to live. A place to learn. A place to grow. You can find out more about the vision – and how it shapes and informs Fettes\’ future at www.fettes.com/vision
Please also watch (with sound on) our film below – Ode to Place – which complements the vision and captures the ethos of Fettes College and what a Fettes education means.
THE AIMS OF THE COLLEGE
Fettes College will ensure that our students:
Feel valued and respected as individuals
Receive the highest possible quality of education, engaging them in rigorous and relevant opportunities in a dynamic curriculum that creates lifelong learners
Feel safe, have a sense of personal worth, are thoughtful and considerate of the needs of others, while possessing a willingness to take on responsibility
Are encouraged to stretch and challenge themselves
Develop a sense of self-confidence, integrity, emotional resilience, loyalty, good manners, leadership skills and teamwork
Value a sense of community
Are surrounded by inspirational caring staff
Feel represented and are provided with equal opportunities regardless of gender, identity, sexual orientation, disability, ethnicity or religion.
“Our Students will leave the school knowing themselves, looking out for others, capable of thinking critically and ready to make a positive mark on their rapidly changing world. They will be bold and visionary yet compassionate; they will possess a global perspective and be ready to embrace the opportunities of the future” Helen Harrison, Head
#J-18808-Ljbffr
Teacher of History and Politics (from January 2026 or sooner) employer: George Watson'S College
Contact Detail:
George Watson'S College Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Teacher of History and Politics (from January 2026 or sooner)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local teaching events, and connect with people in the History and Politics field. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its ethos. Familiarise yourself with Fettes College's vision and values so you can show how your teaching style aligns with their goals. This will help you stand out as a candidate who truly gets what they’re about.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your passion for History and Politics during interviews. Bring examples of how you've inspired students in the past or innovative teaching methods you've used. Let your enthusiasm shine through – it’s contagious!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Teacher of History and Politics (from January 2026 or sooner)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for History and Politics shine through. We want to see how you can inspire students and bring the subject to life in the classroom.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and ethos of Fettes College. Highlight your commitment to academic excellence and your willingness to engage in all aspects of school life.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure your qualifications and experiences are easy to understand and relevant to the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure it gets to us directly and is considered promptly. We’re excited to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson'S College
✨Know Your Subject Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of both History and Politics. Brush up on key events, theories, and figures that are relevant to the curriculum. Being able to discuss these topics confidently will show your passion and expertise.
✨Show Your Enthusiasm for Teaching
During the interview, express your excitement about inspiring students. Share specific examples of how you've engaged students in the past or innovative teaching methods you plan to use. This will demonstrate your commitment to fostering a love for learning.
✨Understand the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with Fettes College’s vision and values. Be prepared to discuss how your teaching philosophy aligns with their goals, especially regarding community involvement and personal development. This shows you’re not just looking for a job, but a place where you can contribute meaningfully.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Have a few thoughtful questions ready to ask at the end of your interview. Inquire about the department's future plans or how they support teachers' professional development. This shows you're genuinely interested in the role and eager to be part of their community.