College Chaplain (Lay) in Exeter

College Chaplain (Lay) in Exeter

Exeter Full-Time 35870 - 40469 £ / year (est.) No working from home possible
St Francis Xavier 6th Form College

At a Glance

  • Tasks: Lead spiritual development and engage with students in a vibrant college community.
  • Company: St. Francis Xavier Sixth Form College, a dynamic Catholic institution in London.
  • Benefits: Competitive salary, wellness programmes, fitness perks, and excellent training opportunities.
  • Other info: Join a supportive community committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
  • Why this job: Make a real impact on young adults' spiritual journeys in an inclusive environment.
  • Qualifications: Experience with young adults and leading spiritual reflection; must be a practicing Catholic.

The predicted salary is between 35870 - 40469 £ per year.

Location: London

Salary: NJC scale 18: £40,469 (FTE), actual salary (£35,870) inclusive of inner London Weighting

Job type: Full Time, term time only, plus 5 days (part time will be considered)

Start date: 24th August 2026.

Are you a passionate and experienced spiritual leader ready to make an impact on the lives of young adults? We are seeking a dynamic, faith-filled individual who will embed spiritual development and Christian values into the very fabric of our community. The role of Lay Chaplain is central to the heart and mission of our Catholic Sixth Form College.

The Lay Chaplain works with others across the College to ensure that the opportunity for the development of spiritual education and engagement is available to all our students and has a particular responsibility for the propagation of Christian values and spiritual reflection. Our Lay Chaplain facilitates many liturgical and spiritual opportunities for all students and staff and the Chaplaincy and Chapel are at the heart of our mission open to all.

We are looking for an individual with experience of working with young adults who has experience of participation in or of leading spiritual reflection. You will work with other curriculum and pastoral teams, particularly the welfare and student support personnel, and contribute to the planning and programme of the Religion and Philosophy in which all students participate. You will also ensure the Chaplaincy remains an open, inclusive, and safe space for all members of the college community, regardless of background or belief.

This is a reserved post which means that applicants must be practicing Catholics. Applicants who are shortlisted will require a reference from their Parish Priest.

Rated Good with Outstanding Features by Ofsted, St. Francis Xavier Sixth Form College is a dynamic and ambitious Sixth Form College, specialising in post-16 education. We are proud to be a Catholic college for the whole community, welcoming students and staff of all faiths, no faith and everything in between. We offer a wide range of A level and vocational courses and an unrivalled programme of enrichment activities providing our students with opportunities to learn outside of the classroom, develop new skills and realise their ambitions.

We thrive on our many engagements and connections with higher education, with employers and with external agencies and we relish the challenge of working out how best to equip our young people to compete and flourish in the future. The College achieves excellent standards and is proud to support many young people from a range of backgrounds to successful progression, to higher education and into employment.

What we offer:

  • Competitive salary
  • Supportive and friendly environment
  • Excellent training opportunities
  • Staff wellbeing programme
  • Free use of our fitness suite
  • Free staff fitness classes
  • Subsidised massage service
  • Cycle to work scheme
  • On site free parking
  • Free flu immunisation
  • Free eye tests
  • Season ticket loan
  • Membership of the Local Government Pension Scheme
  • Employee Assistance Programme

Closing and interview dates: Applications must be submitted by midnight Wednesday 13th May 2026. Interviews will be held as soon as possible after the closing date. We reserve the right to interview successful applicants prior to the application deadline.

Saint Francis Xavier Sixth Form College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are made in accordance with safer recruitment practices and the statutory guidance in Keeping Children Safe in Education. Online checks will be carried out on all shortlisted candidates, and all appointments are subject to an enhanced DBS check, satisfactory references and checks regarding suitability to work with children. In promoting equal opportunities, we welcome applications from all sections of the community. All disabled applicants who meet the minimum criteria will be shortlisted for interview.

Education through a Christian Community. Please click 'APPLY' to send your CV for this position.

College Chaplain (Lay) in Exeter employer: St Francis Xavier 6th Form College

At St. Francis Xavier Sixth Form College, we pride ourselves on being an inclusive and supportive community that values spiritual development and the well-being of our staff and students. As a Lay Chaplain, you will be at the heart of our mission, fostering a welcoming environment for all while benefiting from excellent training opportunities, a strong focus on staff wellbeing, and a range of perks including free fitness classes and a cycle to work scheme. Join us in making a meaningful impact on the lives of young adults in a dynamic and ambitious educational setting in London.

St Francis Xavier 6th Form College

Contact Details:

St Francis Xavier 6th Form College Recruitment Team

StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫

We think this is how you could land College Chaplain (Lay) in Exeter

Tip Number 1

Get to know the college's values and mission inside out. When you walk into that interview, let your passion for spiritual development shine through. We want to see how you can weave those Christian values into the community!

Tip Number 2

Prepare some examples of how you've engaged with young adults in a spiritual context. Share stories that highlight your experience in leading reflection or facilitating liturgical opportunities. We love hearing about real-life impact!

Tip Number 3

Don’t forget to ask questions during your interview! Show us you're genuinely interested in how the Chaplaincy operates and how you can contribute. It’s a great way to demonstrate your commitment to creating an inclusive space.

Tip Number 4

Finally, apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always on the lookout for passionate individuals who want to make a difference in our community.

We think you need these skills to ace College Chaplain (Lay) in Exeter

Spiritual Leadership
Experience with Young Adults
Facilitation of Spiritual Reflection
Knowledge of Christian Values
Collaboration with Pastoral Teams
Planning and Programme Development
Inclusivity and Open-Mindedness

Some tips for your application 🫡

Be Authentic:When you're writing your application, let your true self shine through. We want to see your passion for spiritual leadership and how you connect with young adults. Share your experiences and values that align with our mission!

Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the skills and experiences that are relevant to the Lay Chaplain role. Highlight any previous work with young adults and your involvement in spiritual reflection. This will help us see how you fit into our community.

Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you're the perfect fit for this role. Use it to explain your vision for spiritual development at our college and how you plan to engage with students and staff alike.

Apply Through Our Website:Don't forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, we love seeing applications come directly from our site!

How to prepare for a job interview at St Francis Xavier 6th Form College

Know Your Faith and Values

As a Lay Chaplain, your spiritual beliefs are central to the role. Make sure you can articulate your faith journey and how it aligns with the college's mission. Reflect on how you can integrate Christian values into everyday interactions with students and staff.

Engage with the Community

Familiarise yourself with the college's community and its diverse backgrounds. Be prepared to discuss how you would create an inclusive environment in the Chaplaincy. Think about specific examples of how you've engaged with young adults in previous roles.

Prepare for Practical Scenarios

Expect questions that assess your ability to facilitate spiritual reflection and liturgical opportunities. Prepare some scenarios where you've successfully led a group or supported individuals in their spiritual journeys. This will showcase your experience and adaptability.

Showcase Your Collaborative Spirit

The role involves working closely with various teams. Be ready to discuss how you’ve collaborated with others in the past, particularly in educational or pastoral settings. Highlight your communication skills and your approach to building relationships within a team.