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- Tasks: Manage chapel services, provide pastoral care, and ensure a welcoming environment.
- Company: St John's College, Cambridge - a prestigious institution with a rich history.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, 36 days annual leave, free lunch, gym access, and pension scheme.
- Other info: Flexible working hours with opportunities for personal growth and development.
- Why this job: Join a vibrant community and make a meaningful impact in a ceremonial role.
- Qualifications: Strong organisational skills and a passion for supporting others.
The predicted salary is between 31347 - 34006 £ per year.
Salary: £31,347 - £34,006 p.a. (depending on experience) plus benefits.
Job type: Permanent.
Hours: 36.25 hours per week (averaged over the year).
About the Role
A unique opportunity has arisen for a Chapel Clerk (and Verger) to work in the Chapel & Choir Department of St John's College, Cambridge, combining liturgical and chapel administration, front‑of‑house and floor management, alongside a ceremonial role as Verger in this prestigious setting. The Chapel Clerk supports the provision of religious services in the College Chapel and the administration associated with them and ensures the Chapel is a safe, welcoming and hospitable place for everyone who enters, including students, staff, fellows, and members of the public. Divine service in the College Chapel is in accordance with the rites of the Church of England and the chapel team offers pastoral care for members of the College, in particular its student members, regardless of their religious beliefs. The Chapel Clerk is a key member of the Chapel and Choir Department and works closely with the Dean, the Chaplain, and Director of Music and musicians on a daily basis.
Responsibilities
- Ensure the Chapel is a safe, welcoming, and hospitable environment.
- Support the planning, coordination and execution of religious services.
- Manage front‑of‑house duties and floor management during services.
- Perform ceremonial duties as Verger.
- Collaborate closely with the Dean, Chaplain, Director of Music, and musicians.
- Provide pastoral care to College members, especially students.
Working Hours
The hours of work are 36.25 hours per week, averaged over the year. The post holder will usually work:
- 40 hours per week for 28 weeks during term time and the summer Choir residency which runs to mid‑July.
- 32 hours per week for 24.25 weeks outside term time.
Exact working hours can be agreed; however, the post holder will need to be present at Evensong services at least five evenings per week. There will also be some evening commitments during the year, including Services of Compline, which usually take place three times per term at 10pm. Time off in lieu will be given for these commitments.
Benefits
The College offers a competitive benefits package including membership of a defined contributory pension scheme, 36 days’ annual leave (inclusive of Bank Holidays), access to a ‘cash plan’ healthcare scheme currently provided by Simplyhealth, free lunch, free use of an on‑site Gym and free parking close to the College site, subject to availability.
Equal Opportunities
St John’s College is committed to promoting and safeguarding the welfare of the Choristers of the Choir of St John’s College, Cambridge and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The College follows a safer recruitment process for all roles within the Chapel and Choir Department.
Chapel Clerk (and Verger) in Cambridge employer: St. Johns College, Cambridge
Contact Detail:
St. Johns College, Cambridge Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Chapel Clerk (and Verger) in Cambridge
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the Chapel and Choir Department! Research their values, services, and recent events. This will help you connect with the team during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members at St John's College. They can provide insider tips and might even put in a good word for you. Plus, it’s a great way to learn more about the culture.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the ceremonial duties! Brush up on your knowledge of the Church of England rites and practices. Being well-versed in these will not only impress the interviewers but also show that you’re ready to step into the Verger role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Chapel Clerk (and Verger) in Cambridge
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see why you're excited about being a Chapel Clerk and Verger. Share any relevant experiences that highlight your passion for liturgical work and community engagement.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV is tailored specifically for this role. Highlight your skills in administration, front-of-house management, and any ceremonial duties you've performed before. We love seeing how your experience aligns with what we’re looking for!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it gives you a chance to explore more about St John's College and our values.
How to prepare for a job interview at St. Johns College, Cambridge
✨Know Your Role
Familiarise yourself with the responsibilities of a Chapel Clerk and Verger. Understand the importance of creating a welcoming environment and supporting religious services. This will help you articulate how your skills align with the role during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Pastoral Skills
Be prepared to discuss your experience in providing pastoral care, especially to students. Share specific examples of how you've supported individuals in previous roles, as this is a key aspect of the position.
✨Demonstrate Team Collaboration
Highlight your ability to work closely with various stakeholders, such as the Dean, Chaplain, and musicians. Think of instances where you've successfully collaborated in a team setting, as this will show your fit for the Chapel and Choir Department.
✨Prepare for Ceremonial Duties
Since the role involves ceremonial responsibilities, brush up on your knowledge of Church of England rites and practices. Being able to discuss these confidently will demonstrate your commitment and understanding of the role's significance.