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- Tasks: Lead a busy boarding house and provide pastoral care for pupils aged 12-18.
- Company: Glenalmond College, a thriving and supportive educational environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, residential accommodation, and fee concessions for staff children.
- Other info: Full-time role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying a vibrant community.
- Qualifications: Degree in a relevant subject and teaching qualification required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
This position represents an excellent opportunity for an experienced individual to lead the day-to-day running of a busy boarding house as well as the pastoral care of pupils aged 12–18. Glenalmond College seeks to appoint a suitably qualified Housemaster or Housemistress. The position is full-time and residential, and will ideally suit a candidate with experience of working in a boarding environment who wants to contribute to the running of this thriving and busy school.
The successful candidate will lead all aspects of the House with direct responsibility for the welfare of pupils and the management of staff. The position of Housemaster/mistress can be a teaching or non-teaching post. We would particularly welcome applications from candidates able to teach Humanities or English. All staff at Glenalmond are expected to contribute fully to the extra-curricular and boarding life of this busy and successful College. Glenalmond College is committed to promoting the safeguarding of children and expects all its employees to share this commitment.
Each House is run by a residential housemistress/master supported by a team of residential and visiting staff. All are assisted by an assistant housemistress and a matron. In addition, there is a team of visiting tutors who, alongside other members of the teaching staff, provide supervision and pastoral care. As a Housemaster/mistress, the post-holder will have direct responsibility for the pastoral care and welfare of a boarding house. Pupils are aged between 12 and 18, and the House accommodates both day pupils and boarders; the boarding cohort comprises both domestic and international pupils. There is a strong emphasis on community and teamwork, and mutual support.
Each member of staff undergoes an annual appraisal process, providing an opportunity to review progress and identify future opportunities for development. Opportunities are available in both girls’ and boys’ houses.
Accommodation
Residential accommodation for the Houseparent and their family is provided within the House and comprises a spacious family home. WiFi is available throughout the College.
Key Duties & Responsibilities
- Leadership of staff and pupils within the House.
- Manage the pastoral care and development of pupils within the House, including the delegation and supervision of duties.
- Promote and safeguard the welfare of pupils at all times.
- Generate a positive and supportive atmosphere within the House such that all pupils and staff respond to the high standards of behaviour, mutual respect and teamwork.
- Communicate regularly and promptly with parents, including the welcoming of parents into the House for formal and informal meetings and events.
- Lead the work of the House Prefects.
- Be aware of, and implement, the requirements of the National Minimum Standards for Boarding Schools.
- Ensure all procedures and protocols are updated in accordance with the statutory requirements and College policies.
- Liaise with the various tutors and the Deputy Head (Academic) to monitor the academic progress of pupils in the House.
- Monitor and maintain records of pupil attendance, progress and welfare.
- Manage the House's resources and budget as delegated by the Bursar.
- Monitor the fabric of the House, ensuring the highest standards of cleanliness, repair and good order are maintained.
- Be available to meet prospective pupils and parents as required.
- Promote and market the House.
- Attend all Chapel Services, College and House Assemblies.
- Attend, when possible and within reason, events involving members of the House.
- Produce appropriate House booklets and maintain a positive social media presence for the House.
- Produce an annual House Development Plan and Review.
- Write reports on pupils as required and complete UCAS references.
Ideal Candidate
Education (Essential)
- Strong academic background.
- Degree from a recognised university in a relevant subject.
- Relevant teaching qualification and eligible for GTCS registration.
- Experience of working in a secondary school, ideally a boarding school.
- Ability to teach a subject to A-level.
Desirable
- Knowledge of National Minimum Standards for Boarding.
- Experience as an assistant housemaster/mistress or resident tutor.
- Experience of leading a team.
- Experience in managing parental expectations.
Package Description
Hours of Work
This is a permanent full-time post. There is also a requirement to attend all-school events (such as Open Days and Inset Days), some of which take place outwith the usual working pattern.
Salary Scale
The College has its own pay scale and accommodation as part of the role. We can offer you a competitive salary, complimentary refreshments during working hours of work, a good working environment as part of a close-knit team, and the possibility of opportunities for the role to grow and develop.
Pension
There is a College pension scheme.
Other Benefits
Fee concessions are available for staff children who attend Glenalmond.
The closing date for this post is 20th May at 17.00. We reserve the right to appoint at any point during the process.
Housemaster or Housemistress (Teaching) employer: Scottish Council of Independent Schools
Contact Detail:
Scottish Council of Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Housemaster or Housemistress (Teaching)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who have experience in boarding schools. They might know about openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching Glenalmond College and its values. Show that you understand their commitment to pastoral care and community spirit. Tailor your answers to reflect how you can contribute to their thriving environment.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, send a thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing the job. We love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us. Plus, it makes tracking your application easier!
We think you need these skills to ace Housemaster or Housemistress (Teaching)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Pastoral Care: When writing your application, let us see your genuine enthusiasm for supporting and nurturing young people. Share specific examples of how you've positively impacted students' lives in a boarding environment.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially if you've worked in a boarding school or have leadership roles. We want to know how your background aligns with the responsibilities of a Housemaster or Housemistress.
Communicate Clearly: Your written application should be clear and concise. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. Remember, we appreciate good communication skills, so make sure your application reflects that!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Glenalmond College.
How to prepare for a job interview at Scottish Council of Independent Schools
✨Know Your House Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you understand the ethos and values of Glenalmond College. Familiarise yourself with their approach to pastoral care and how they support both domestic and international pupils. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with their expectations.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Housemaster or Housemistress, you'll be leading a team and managing pupils. Prepare examples from your past experiences where you've successfully led a team or managed a challenging situation. Highlight your ability to create a positive atmosphere and promote teamwork within the house.
✨Engage with the Community Aspect
Glenalmond places a strong emphasis on community and teamwork. Be ready to discuss how you would foster a supportive environment among staff and pupils. Think about extracurricular activities you could introduce or enhance to strengthen community ties within the house.
✨Prepare for Parental Engagement
Communication with parents is key in this role. Be prepared to discuss how you would manage parental expectations and keep them informed about their children's progress. Share any relevant experiences where you've successfully engaged with parents or guardians in a school setting.