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- Tasks: Support and inspire girls in a vibrant boarding school environment.
- Company: Downe House, a leading independent school for girls aged 11-18.
- Benefits: Free meals, pension contributions, life insurance, and access to gym facilities.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young women's lives while enjoying a beautiful working environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in a boarding environment and preferably a qualified teacher.
- Other info: Residential role with generous holiday periods and a supportive staff community.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based in the village of Cold Ash, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and co-curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women.
An Assistant Housemistress fulfils a vital role at Downe House. We are looking for someone with a genuine passion for excellence; unbounded energy to ensure the House is well run and an unyielding determination to support each girl in the House, as she navigates her own individual journey to be the very best version of herself.
You will be immersed in the 24/7 nature of a busy school. The ideal candidate will be intelligent, patient, kind, fun and brave role models for our girls and with previous experience of working in a boarding environment. Preferably you will also be a qualified teacher, who is able to teach up to half a timetable in your specific field.
You’ll inspire our girls to be trailblazers in all that they do. Attention to detail, a good understanding of cross-cultural issues and great likeability are important qualities. When it goes wrong, as it can on the teenage journey, you will need to be able to help your girls to navigate failure and manage parental expectations with diplomacy and wisdom.
You will be supported in your role by your Housemistress and a wider House Team to ensure the happiness and safety of pupils in your care. This is a residential post, so the Assistant Housemistress will be required to live in the fully funded self-contained accommodation which will be provided. You will have weekly time off during the 34 weeks of term time and enjoy substantial holiday periods for nearly 18 weeks outside of term time.
We offer a range of benefits including:
- Generous employer contribution to pension
- Life Insurance and Critical Illness cover
- Regular CPD opportunities and a supportive induction programme
- Provision of delicious free meals, on-site parking
- Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times
- A vibrant and supportive staff community
- A beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
Assistant Housemistress / Housemaster in Cold Ash employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Assistant Housemistress / Housemaster in Cold Ash
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Downe House through LinkedIn or social media. A friendly chat can give you insider info and maybe even a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get the chance to meet with the team, share your enthusiasm for working with young girls and how you can contribute to their growth. Be genuine and let your personality shine!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! In a school environment, things can change quickly. Think about scenarios you might face as an Assistant Housemistress and how you'd handle them. This will show you're ready for the challenge!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Downe House community. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Assistant Housemistress / Housemaster in Cold Ash
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for working with young girls shine through in your application. We want to see that genuine passion for excellence and supporting each girl on her journey, so share personal stories or experiences that highlight this.
Be Specific About Your Experience: When detailing your previous experience, especially in a boarding environment, be specific! We love to see how your background aligns with the role. Mention any relevant teaching qualifications and how they can benefit our girls.
Highlight Your Soft Skills: We’re looking for intelligent, patient, and kind role models. Make sure to showcase your soft skills in your application. Use examples that demonstrate your ability to navigate challenges and support students through their ups and downs.
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 this exciting opportunity at Downe House. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the School's Values
Before your interview, take some time to research Downe House and its values. Understand their commitment to providing a supportive environment for girls and how you can contribute to that mission. This will show your genuine interest in the role and help you align your answers with what they’re looking for.
✨Show Your Passion for Education
As an Assistant Housemistress, your enthusiasm for education and personal development is key. Be ready to share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past or how you plan to support the girls in their journeys. Highlight any previous experience in a boarding environment to demonstrate your understanding of the unique challenges and rewards it brings.
✨Demonstrate Your People Skills
This role requires a lot of interaction with both students and parents. Prepare to discuss how you handle difficult situations with diplomacy and kindness. Think of examples where you've successfully navigated conflicts or supported someone through a tough time, showcasing your patience and understanding.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask questions! This shows your interest and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you. Consider asking about the support systems in place for staff, the culture within the house, or how they approach cross-cultural issues. It’s a great way to engage with the interviewers and leave a lasting impression.
