At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Psychology Department, teaching A Level and IB Psychology to enthusiastic students.
- Company: Ryde School, a vibrant and supportive educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, health schemes, and on-site accommodation options.
- Other info: Join a dynamic school community with excellent career development opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a thriving department and inspire the next generation of psychologists.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching Psychology with a passion for student success.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 131056 £ per year.
Ryde School seeks to appoint a Head of Psychology to provide maternity cover in the Senior School’s successful and popular Psychology Department, teaching A Level and IB Psychology to Lower and Upper Sixth pupils. All teaching staff at the School are expected to be outstanding practitioners in the classroom and to contribute to the busy co-curricular life in the School.
The successful candidate will be able to take up the post in November 2026 until October half term 2027. This is a full-time post covering maternity leave from November 2026 until October half-term 2027 in our well-established and popular Psychology Department which enjoys a strong record of success. The subject is taught at A Level and IB, at both Standard and Higher Level, with around 50 pupils taking it across both the Lower and Upper Sixth. The department follows the AQA specification at A Level, achieving consistently excellent results with 79% A*–B over the last three years. During this time, IB outcomes have also been excellent with 89% of grades at 7–5.
Psychology-related topics are popular for study in the Extended Project Qualification, which is offered as part of our A Level Plus pathway, and in the IB Extended Essay, undertaken by IB Diploma pupils. Consequently, psychology and psychology-related degrees at leading UK universities are popular choices for many pupils each year.
The role would suit an experienced practitioner who could contribute effectively to this highly successful and flourishing department in a busy school. They will be an outstanding classroom teacher with excellent subject knowledge and the ability to communicate their passion for psychology and related academic disciplines, fostering a stimulating and supportive learning environment. The successful candidate will have a track record of achieving excellent outcomes for their pupils at A Level and/or IB. Although desirable, prior experience of teaching IB Psychology is not a prerequisite for this position.
Outside of teaching, full-time members of the teaching staff are expected to be a tutor and all teachers are also expected to contribute to the busy co-curricular life at the School, which will be discussed at interview. There is a wide range of activities offered at Ryde and these take place in dedicated timeslots throughout the week. The opportunity of accommodation on-site is potentially available for the successful candidate. This would include undertaking weekly boarding duties.
Personal Attributes
- Work with integrity and be able to connect with pupils, parents and staff.
- Committed to being involved in the life of a busy school.
- High personal and professional standards.
- Empathetic with the values and aims of the School.
The benefits of working at Ryde School are many. The School occupies a 17-acre site overlooking the Solent with a range of traditional and listed buildings alongside award-winning contemporary architecture. Competitive salaries, private pension arrangements, salary sacrifice, access to electric car and health scheme memberships and to sailing, golfing and gym facilities. A daily lunch is prepared in house. These are some of the benefits enjoyed by staff, whilst working in a happy, rewarding and innovative environment focused on our motivated pupils and their achievements.
Applications, which should include a short letter of suitability (no longer than one side of A4), should be addressed to Mr W Turner, Head Master, by post or emailed to Candidates must fully complete a Ryde School Application Form (available on the website). Please also include the names, addresses and telephone numbers of two referees including a current employer. If you have any further questions or require further information about this post please contact our HR Manager, Mrs Tracy Green on 01983 617922.
Early applications are encouraged with interviews taking place on a rolling basis. The School reserves the right to withdraw this advert should a suitable candidate be found. The closing date for applications is 9am on Monday 1 Jun.
Head of Psychology - Ryde School in England employer: Ryde School with Upper Chine
Ryde School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work environment where educators can thrive. With a strong emphasis on professional development, competitive salaries, and a range of benefits including access to health schemes and on-site accommodation, staff are encouraged to engage fully in the school community. Located on a picturesque 17-acre site overlooking the Solent, the school fosters a culture of innovation and excellence, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to inspire and shape the future of their students.
Contact Details:
Ryde School with Upper Chine Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Psychology - Ryde School in England
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Research Ryde School and its Psychology Department. Understanding their values and teaching style will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff members on LinkedIn or through educational forums. They can provide insider tips about the interview process and what the school is really looking for in a candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can contribute to the co-curricular life at Ryde School. Have a few ideas ready about activities or clubs you could lead, as this shows you're keen to get involved beyond just teaching.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the position and ready to follow the school's application process.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Psychology - Ryde School in England
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Make sure to highlight your passion for psychology and how your experience aligns with the role. Keep it concise, ideally no longer than one side of A4, and don’t forget to address it to Mr W Turner.
Show Off Your Teaching Skills:We want to see your teaching prowess! In your application, mention specific examples of how you've achieved excellent outcomes for your pupils at A Level or IB. This will help us understand your impact in the classroom.
Complete the Application Form:Don’t skip this step! Make sure to fully complete the Ryde School Application Form available on our website. It’s essential for us to have all the necessary details about you and your referees.
Get Your Referees Ready:Include the names, addresses, and phone numbers of two referees, including your current employer. It’s a good idea to give them a heads-up that they might be contacted, so they’re prepared to speak highly of you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Ryde School with Upper Chine
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you brush up on A Level and IB Psychology topics, especially the AQA specification. Be ready to discuss your teaching methods and how you've achieved excellent outcomes in the past. This shows you're not just knowledgeable but also passionate about the subject.
✨Show Your Classroom Skills
Prepare to share specific examples of your teaching experiences. Think about how you've engaged pupils and created a stimulating learning environment. Highlight any innovative approaches you've used to make psychology relatable and exciting for students.
✨Get Involved Beyond the Classroom
Ryde School values co-curricular contributions, so be ready to discuss how you can engage with school life outside of teaching. Whether it's tutoring or leading activities, show that you're keen to be an active part of the school community.
✨Connect with the Values
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and values. During the interview, express how your personal attributes align with their mission. Being empathetic and demonstrating integrity will resonate well with the interviewers.
