At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead interfaith services and coordinate engaging events in a beautiful Chapel.
- Company: Somerville College, a historic and inclusive educational institution.
- Benefits: Flexible hours, academic support, and a vibrant community atmosphere.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with opportunities for personal and professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a meaningful impact while balancing your academic pursuits.
- Qualifications: DPhil student or recent graduate with a passion for community engagement.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 € per year.
We are hiring a Chapel Director! 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.
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 in Oxford employer: Somerville College
At Somerville, we pride ourselves on fostering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that values creativity and interfaith dialogue. As a Chapel Director, you will have the unique opportunity to engage with a diverse community while balancing your academic pursuits, all within the historic and inspiring setting of our Chapel. We offer flexible working hours during term time, allowing for personal growth and meaningful contributions to the college's rich traditions.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Chapel Director in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former Chapel Directors, or anyone involved in the interfaith community. A friendly chat can give us insights into the role and might even lead to a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for interfaith work! When you get the chance to meet with the hiring team, share your ideas on how to enhance the Chapel's offerings. We want to see your creativity and commitment to the community.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by understanding the college's values and the significance of the Chapel. We need to know that you can connect with the diverse backgrounds of the students and create an inclusive environment.
✨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 take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Chapel Director 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 much you care about the Chapel and its interfaith mission. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your commitment to community and wellbeing.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to fit the Chapel Director role. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique blend of music, art, and spirituality. Use specific examples from your background that align with our values and the responsibilities outlined in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for this position by sticking to the key points that matter most.
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 the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about what we do at Somerville.
How to prepare for a job interview at Somerville College
✨Know the Chapel's History
Familiarise yourself with the history and purpose of the Chapel at Somerville. Understanding its role as an inter-faith space and its significance in the college will help you connect your vision for the role with the institution's values.
✨Prepare Your Programme Ideas
Think about how you would run the weekly ‘Choral Contemplation’ and other events. Have a few ideas ready that align with the termly themes and demonstrate your creativity and understanding of interfaith dialogue.
✨Engage with the Community
Show that you’re not just focused on the role but also on the community. Be prepared to discuss how you would engage with students and staff, making the Chapel a welcoming space for all, regardless of their background.
✨Highlight Your Academic Experience
Since this role is designed for someone close to the Oxford student experience, be ready to share your own academic journey. Discuss how your studies have shaped your approach to community service and engagement, and how you can balance this role with your academic pursuits.
