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- Tasks: Lead the Religious Studies Department, inspiring critical thinking and ethical inquiry.
- Company: Prestigious independent school in Richmond known for academic excellence.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive leadership, and professional development opportunities.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Religious Studies and make a lasting impact on students.
- Qualifications: Graduate in Religious Studies or related field with QTS and teaching experience.
- Other info: Collaborative environment with opportunities for extracurricular engagement.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Richmond
Start Date: January 2026 or earlier
Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience
Are you an inspiring and experienced Religious Studies educator ready to lead a dynamic department in one of Richmond's most prestigious independent schools? We are delighted to offer an exceptional opportunity for an outstanding teacher to become Head of Religious Studies, guiding a department that fosters critical thinking, ethical inquiry, and philosophical exploration.
About the School
This renowned independent school is celebrated for its academic excellence and commitment to intellectual curiosity. The Religious Studies Department plays a central role in promoting open-minded debate and reflection on philosophy, ethics, and world religions. With superb facilities, supportive leadership, and a forward-thinking ethos, this is an ideal environment for a motivated academic leader to make a lasting impact.
Why This Is a Remarkable Leadership Opportunity
- Strategic Leadership: Shape the vision and direction of the Religious Studies Department, ensuring a rich, inclusive, and challenging curriculum.
- Collaborative Innovation: Work closely with colleagues across the Humanities faculty, particularly in Philosophy and History, to promote interdisciplinary learning.
- Academic Excellence: Inspire staff and students alike through outstanding teaching, scholarship, and enrichment opportunities.
- Professional Development: Benefit from a culture that values reflective leadership, continuous improvement, and pedagogical innovation.
Your Role as Head of Religious Studies
- Provide strategic leadership and management for the Religious Studies Department.
- Deliver engaging and intellectually rigorous lessons across Key Stages 3–5.
- Lead curriculum development, ensuring alignment with the school’s academic vision.
- Mentor and support colleagues, fostering a culture of collaboration and professional growth.
- Promote ethical debate, philosophical inquiry, and interfaith understanding.
- Organise and lead extracurricular activities such as philosophy societies, debate clubs, and visiting speaker programmes.
What We Are Looking For
- A graduate in Religious Studies, Philosophy, or a related discipline, with QTS and substantial teaching experience.
- Proven leadership skills and the ability to inspire both students and colleagues.
- A passion for fostering critical thinking, ethical reasoning, and intellectual curiosity.
- Excellent communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills.
- A forward-thinking educator eager to contribute to the broader life of the school.
How to Apply
If you are an accomplished and visionary Religious Studies teacher seeking to lead an ambitious and reflective department, we would be delighted to hear from you. Please submit your CV and a covering letter outlining your leadership experience and educational philosophy.
Head of Religious Studies - Independent School in Richmond employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Religious Studies - Independent School in Richmond
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend relevant events, and engage with professionals on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on that Head of Religious Studies role!
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with their commitment to academic excellence and ethical inquiry. We want to see you shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership skills! Think of examples where you've inspired colleagues or led successful projects. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can shape the Religious Studies Department into something extraordinary.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive about their job search!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Religious Studies - Independent School in Richmond
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your leadership experience and educational philosophy. We want to see your passion for Religious Studies and how you can inspire both students and colleagues.
Tailor Your CV: Don’t just send a generic CV! Tailor it to reflect the skills and experiences that align with the Head of Religious Studies role. We’re looking for evidence of your teaching prowess and leadership capabilities, so make those stand out!
Showcase Your Vision: In your application, share your vision for the Religious Studies Department. We love innovative ideas, so don’t hold back! Let us know how you plan to promote ethical debate and philosophical inquiry in our school.
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way for us to receive your materials and keep everything organised. We can’t wait to see what you bring to the table!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the key topics of Religious Studies, philosophy, and ethics. Brush up on current debates and trends in education, as well as the specific curriculum used at the school. This will show your passion and preparedness.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Be ready to discuss your leadership approach and how you plan to inspire both students and staff. Think about examples from your past experiences where you’ve successfully led a team or implemented innovative teaching strategies.
✨Engage with Interdisciplinary Ideas
Since collaboration is key, prepare to talk about how you would work with colleagues in Philosophy and History. Have some ideas ready on how to promote interdisciplinary learning and enrich the curriculum.
✨Bring Your Vision
Articulate your vision for the Religious Studies Department clearly. Think about what makes a successful programme and how you can contribute to the school's academic excellence. Be prepared to discuss how you would foster critical thinking and ethical inquiry among students.
