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- Tasks: Support and care for gifted young musicians in a vibrant boarding environment.
- Company: The Purcell School, dedicated to nurturing talent and providing exceptional pastoral care.
- Benefits: Free accommodation, meals, and a competitive salary of ÂŁ16,920 PA.
- Why this job: Gain valuable experience in teaching and pastoral care while enjoying a dynamic residential lifestyle.
- Qualifications: Recent graduates from any discipline, especially music and performance, are encouraged to apply.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth and extensive training in safeguarding and mental health.
The predicted salary is between 16920 - 16920 ÂŁ per year.
We are seeking Resident Graduate Assistants to join us from 1st September 2026. This is an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate of any discipline to gain valuable experience supporting and looking after some of the country’s most gifted young musicians. This role would be the perfect first job for a graduate considering a career in teaching, pastoral care or working with young people in any other context. Extensive training will be given in all aspects of safeguarding, as well as around boarding and mental health first aid.
We welcome applicants from any background (especially music and performance related disciplines) and will facilitate opportunities to gain experience working in a relevant curriculum area, if this is desired. For example, recent music RGAs have joined ensembles and choirs, assisted music teachers and have even led major performances and projects in their spare time; sports graduates have led a full and varied range of recreational sports activities.
We want our boarders to enjoy living here and we strive to provide outstanding pastoral care and support. Each of our three boarding houses is supervised by at least two residential staff. The successful candidate will support Houseparents with the day-to-day care of our boarders, overnight cover and will respond positively to the needs and interests of our students. They will play a significant part in ensuring that our young musicians are safe, happy and healthy and will be able to lead and facilitate a range of recreational activities for boarders.
If you are caring, people-focused, enjoy the company of young people and think you would enjoy a busy residential lifestyle, we would be delighted to hear from you.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
- Full-time position during term-time.
- This is a fixed-term, one year contract with the possibility of extension by a year if both parties agree.
- Start date: 1st September 2026
- The salary is ÂŁ16,920 PA (ÂŁ20,395 FTE)
- The post holder is required to live on site. Single accommodation is provided in a boarding house every day of the contract period. Accommodation (which may be shared) is provided free of rent, council tax and all utilities.
- Meals are available and are free of charge in the School dining room during term time.
- There is a sixth month probationary period, with notice of 4 weeks on either side, after which the post will be confirmed, with a notice period of one term.
- This post is subject to regular appraisal.
HOW TO APPLY
If you wish to apply, please complete the School’s Application Form (available on our website) and send it with a supporting Personal Statement. Please do not send a separate Curriculum Vitae. Personal statements should outline your experience, subject knowledge and evidence of your achievements. The Personal Statement is your opportunity to tell us how your skills and experience can contribute to an outstanding student experience.
Shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview in the Spring or Summer term. Candidates will be required to bring evidence of identity and right to work in the UK. Please submit your application by email via the button below as soon as possible. Applications will be considered on receipt so candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible.
JOB SPECIFICATION
The Purcell School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
All members of staff are ultimately answerable to the Principal. Your line manager will be a Houseparent. This job specification sets out the duties of the post at the time of drafting. Specific responsibilities are as follows:
- To supervise, support and care for members of a designated boarding house and provide pastoral care to all students of the School as required.
- To organise, supervise and promote a range of social and recreational activities in the evenings and at weekends.
- To follow Health and Safety guidelines at all times and to undertake Risk Assessments as required.
- To assist Houseparents with the day-to-day care of boarders.
- To support the smooth-running of the boarding house by contributing to the duty rota. Up to three nights overnight “on call” will be required per week.
- To be in residence for 48 hours prior to and after the end of each term to assist with the preparation and closing of the boarding house.
- To participate in school inset meetings.
- To contribute to the School’s extra-curricular and/or boarding provision.
- To assist occasionally at whole school events.
Resident Graduate Assistants employer: PURCELL SCHOOL
Contact Detail:
PURCELL SCHOOL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Resident Graduate Assistants
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school and its culture! Before your interview, check out their website and social media. This will help you understand what they value and how you can fit in.
✨Tip Number 2
Practice your interview skills with a friend or family member. Focus on how your experiences relate to the role of a Resident Graduate Assistant, especially your ability to support and engage with young people.
✨Tip Number 3
Be ready to share specific examples from your past that showcase your caring nature and ability to lead activities. Think about times you've worked with young people or organised events!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our team and contributing to an outstanding student experience.
We think you need these skills to ace Resident Graduate Assistants
Some tips for your application 🫡
Get Personal with Your Statement: When writing your personal statement, make it personal! Share your experiences and how they relate to the role. We want to see your passion for working with young people and any relevant skills you bring to the table.
Stick to the Application Form: Remember, we only want the School’s Application Form and your personal statement. No CVs, please! Keep it simple and focused on what we’ve asked for to make our lives easier when reviewing applications.
Show Off Your Achievements: Use your personal statement to highlight your achievements. Whether it's leading a project or being involved in music or sports, let us know how you've made an impact. This is your chance to shine!
Apply Early!: Don’t wait until the last minute to send in your application. We review applications as they come in, so the sooner you apply, the better your chances. Head over to our website and get that application in!
How to prepare for a job interview at PURCELL SCHOOL
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you understand the role of a Resident Graduate Assistant inside out. Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities, especially around pastoral care and supporting young musicians. This will help you answer questions confidently and show that you're genuinely interested in the position.
✨Show Your Passion for Working with Young People
During the interview, share specific examples of your experience with young people, whether through teaching, mentoring, or leading activities. Highlight any relevant skills or experiences that demonstrate your ability to connect with and support students, as this is key for the role.
✨Prepare Your Personal Statement
Your personal statement is your chance to shine! Make it clear how your background and experiences align with the job. Be ready to discuss it in detail during the interview, focusing on how you can contribute to creating an outstanding student experience.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! Inquire about the training provided, the types of activities you might lead, or how the school supports its staff. This shows your enthusiasm for the role and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
