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- Tasks: Lead interfaith events and wellbeing activities in a beautiful chapel setting.
- Company: Somerville College, a vibrant community with a rich history.
- Benefits: Flexible hours to balance your academic pursuits and a supportive environment.
- Other info: Accommodation guaranteed from 1 October 2026; perfect for early career academics.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact on a diverse community while pursuing your DPhil.
- Qualifications: Must be an Oxford student or recent DPhil graduate with relevant experience.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
Somerville was founded as a non-denominational hall, and its Chapel was built in the 1930s as an unconsecrated ‘House of Prayer for All Peoples’. This beautiful building at the heart of the College grounds is therefore now used both as an inter-faith space and in a number of different ways, including for music, art, drama and activities related to wellbeing.
One key event is a weekly ‘Choral Contemplation’ on Sunday evening, made up of choral music by the choir accompanied by speakers and readings from a range of faiths or none, in order to reflect the interfaith tradition of the college. These Sunday events are built around a coherent termly theme. The Chapel Director runs this programme in coordination with the Director of Chapel Music.
The Chapel Director also administers the other activities for which the Chapel is used, especially weekly wellbeing classes such as yoga and mindfulness, conducted by professional practitioners, and has a general responsibility for the use of the building by other groups.
This is a fixed-term post, subject to funding and continuing need, designed to support an Oxford student working towards a DPhil, or a recent DPhil graduate or very early career academic who is sufficiently close enough to the Oxford student experience to be able to provide engaging, relevant and responsive services to our community. The role is designed to be managed in a few hours each week, term-time only, so as to enable the post-holder’s academic pursuits to be prioritised.
The role is available from 1 September 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter to enable the post-holder to plan and prepare for Chapel activities in Michaelmas Term 2026. Please note that accommodation is only guaranteed from 1 October 2026. Candidates must have suitable right to work in the UK.
Chapel Director 2026 - 2029 in Oxford employer: Somerville College Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Somerville College Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chapel Director 2026 - 2029 in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Chapel Directors, or anyone involved in similar roles. A quick chat can give us insider info and maybe even a foot in the door.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for interfaith activities! When we get the chance to meet potential employers, let’s share our ideas on how to enhance the Chapel's community engagement. It’ll show we’re not just interested, but invested.
✨Tip Number 3
Get involved in local events related to wellbeing, music, or arts. This will not only boost our CV but also help us connect with people who might be part of the hiring process. Plus, it’s a great way to gather fresh ideas!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets noticed. Plus, we can keep an eye on any updates or new opportunities that pop up.
We think you need these skills to ace Chapel Director 2026 - 2029 in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your experiences and interests align with the Chapel's mission and activities. Make it personal and relatable!
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We recommend you tailor your CV and cover letter to highlight relevant experiences that connect with the Chapel's interfaith and wellbeing focus. Show us why you're the perfect fit!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon and make sure your key points stand out—this will help us understand your qualifications quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and ensures you don’t miss any important details. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerville College Recruitment
✨Know Your Chapel History
Familiarise yourself with the history and significance of the Chapel at Somerville. Understanding its role as an inter-faith space and its use for various activities will help you connect with the interviewers and demonstrate your genuine interest in the position.
✨Showcase Your Programme Ideas
Prepare to discuss potential themes and activities for the weekly ‘Choral Contemplation’ and other events. Think creatively about how you can engage the community and enhance the wellbeing classes, showing that you can bring fresh ideas to the role.
✨Highlight Your Academic Connection
Since this role is designed for someone close to the Oxford student experience, be ready to share your own academic journey. Discuss how your background and current pursuits align with the needs of the Chapel and its community.
✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Collaboration
Emphasise your ability to work collaboratively with the Director of Chapel Music and other groups using the space. Share examples from your past experiences where you successfully managed multiple responsibilities or worked with diverse teams.