Head of Philosophy and Religious Studies

Ewell Castle School is seeking an inspirational and forward-thinking Head of Philosophy and Religious Studies (PRS) to lead a rigorous, ambitious and contemporary academic programme from KS3 through to A-level. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher and emerging leader who is passionate about shaping a transformational curriculum, driving exceptional academic outcomes, and nurturing pupils’ personal growth and wellbeing. The successful candidate will join a high-performing team of middle leaders, modelling exemplary practice and playing a key role in sustaining the school’s culture of excellence.

As Head of PRS, you will be responsible for leading the strategic development of the subject, ensuring a curriculum that is challenging, future-focused and grounded in evidence-based pedagogical principles. You will champion high expectations, model outstanding teaching, and support colleagues in delivering exceptional provision.

• Curriculum Leadership
  • Design, implement and evaluate a rigorous, coherent PRS curriculum from KS3–KS5, aligned with National Curriculum updates and exam board specifications.
  • Ensure the curriculum reflects best practice and supports outstanding progress, attainment and intellectual challenge.
  • Develop detailed schemes of work that promote consistency, breadth and depth across the department.
  • Lead an engaging co-curriculum including extension opportunities, talks, enrichment and wider cultural experiences.
• Teaching & Learning Excellence
  • Model outstanding teaching, behaviour management and curriculum delivery.
  • Monitor the quality of teaching and learning, planning and feedback across the department.
  • Facilitate high-quality assessment in line with the school assessment policy, ensuring strong diagnostic insight and meaningful pupil progress.
  • Lead interventions and strategies to support sub-groups and individuals whose progress requires acceleration.
• Departmental Leadership & Development
  • Establish, deliver and evaluate a clear departmental development plan aligned with whole-school priorities.
  • Produce high-quality Department Improvement Plans and data analyses as part of the school’s self-evaluation cycle.
  • Support and mentor staff, including ECTs and those new to the profession, following school structures for coaching, monitoring and professional growth.
  • Provide coaching and mentoring to colleagues, promoting reflective practice and continuous improvement.
  • Promote and uphold all school policies, ensuring a culture of high expectations and professional integrity.
• Operational & Resource Management
  • Manage departmental resources effectively, ensuring efficient deployment and high-quality learning environments.
  • Monitor the use and effectiveness of teaching materials and ensure the department maintains exemplary standards.
  • Coordinate external speakers, trips, INSET and enrichment activities as required.
• Communication & Stakeholder Engagement
  • Communicate clearly and professionally with pupils, staff, parents, and external partners.
  • Liaise with relevant leaders and pastoral teams to support pupil progress, wellbeing and engagement.
  • Contribute to whole-school events, professional development days and community opportunities.

We welcome applications from committed and reflective practitioners who demonstrate:

• Deep subject knowledge and passion for Philosophy and Religious Studies.
• Proven success in teaching PRS at KS3–KS5, including A-level.
• Excellent classroom practice and the ability to inspire pupils of all abilities.
• Strong leadership potential with the ability to motivate and support colleagues.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism and organisational skill.
• A commitment to safeguarding, pupil wellbeing and the values of the school.

This is an exceptional opportunity for a dedicated subject specialist who is ready to take the next step in leadership, shaping an ambitious and forward-thinking PRS provision.

Ewell Castle School is a happy and successful co-educational independent school on the Surrey/London borders, easily accessible by public transport. We are a through school that offers children aged 4 to 18 the benefits of a family-friendly atmosphere whilst maintaining a stimulating and rigorous academic programme. We care about the needs of the individual child and this is facilitated by small class sizes and our personalised approach. Ewell Castle is a private school that oozes charm and character in a green and beautiful enclave. There is widespread affection for the School’s family ethos and we are utterly loyal to our boys and girls, dedicated to inspiring their best achievement, whether in academic success, sporting excellence or exceptional performing arts. The School’s reputation for an ambitious and personalised approach to each pupil is well founded, as is our excellent reputation for pastoral care, creating a rounded and grounded experience for all. Ewell Castle School’s ideology is to focus our energy on the learning and welfare of our children. What happens in the classroom is the beating heart of the School, stretching and challenging our pupils to achieve more than they thought possible. The School has a vibrant community spirit and is a genuine mixed ability school with a focus on helping every child to thrive.