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- Tasks: Support the wellbeing of students and ensure a positive living environment.
- Company: Shiplake College, a vibrant co-educational school with a focus on pastoral care.
- Benefits: Term-time role, competitive pay, free lunches, gym access, and beautiful riverside location.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in young people's lives while enjoying a supportive community.
- Qualifications: Empathy, good communication skills, and a passion for youth wellbeing.
- Other info: Flexible hours with opportunities for additional paid work.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 43200 £ per year.
This is a superb opportunity for an organised, empathetic and resourceful individual who has a passion for the wellbeing of young people. The House Pastoral Leader is a vital member of the pastoral team, led by the Housemaster/mistress. The House Pastoral Leader assists with the smooth day-to-day running of the House and helps ensure the highest standards of pastoral care are in place.
The House Pastoral Leader will supervise and provide care for pupils, with responsibilities for the physical, social and emotional wellbeing and presentation of the pupils in the House. The successful candidate will have good interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with young people, their parents and guardians. They will be a good listener, reliable, warm and friendly in their disposition with sufficient sensitivity to show tact and diplomacy. A flexible approach alongside a good sense of humour and an even temper dealing with all situations in a co-operative and sensitive manner are also fundamental to carrying out this role. Confidentiality and integrity are key.
This is a term-time only role working 3 days a week (Wednesday to Friday) from 7.30am to 5pm, plus INSET of 3 days per annum, to start as soon as possible. There is an additional 4 weeks work available as paid overtime.
Shiplake College offers a beautiful working environment, supportive colleagues, a contributory pension scheme and excellent free lunches. Staff are encouraged to make use of the on-site gym facilities and open-air swimming pool, during the summer months, alongside the opportunity to make the most of our riverside location.
Please visit our website to learn more about the College, our community and our values.
Closing Date: 10am Friday 12 December 2025
Interviews will be held the week commencing 15 December 2025
A candidate pack and application form can be obtained from this link.
Shiplake College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Shiplake College is also committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.
House Pastoral Leader employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land House Pastoral Leader
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, spend some time researching Shiplake College. Understanding their values and community will help you connect with the interviewers and show that you're genuinely interested in the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your interpersonal skills! During the interview, be sure to highlight your experience working with young people and how you've supported their wellbeing. Use specific examples to demonstrate your empathy and ability to communicate effectively.
✨Tip Number 3
Be yourself! The House Pastoral Leader role requires a warm and friendly disposition, so let your personality shine through. A good sense of humour can go a long way in making a positive impression on the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email expressing your appreciation for the opportunity can set you apart from other candidates. It shows your enthusiasm for the role and keeps you fresh in their minds.
We think you need these skills to ace House Pastoral Leader
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your passion for the wellbeing of young people shine through. We want to see how much you care about making a positive impact in their lives!
Be Organised: Make sure your application is well-structured and easy to read. Use clear headings and bullet points where necessary. We appreciate a tidy presentation that reflects your organisational skills.
Highlight Your Interpersonal Skills: Since this role involves working closely with pupils and their families, emphasise your interpersonal skills. Share examples of how you've effectively communicated and built relationships in the past.
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 this fantastic opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Role Inside Out
Before the interview, make sure you thoroughly understand the responsibilities of a House Pastoral Leader. Familiarise yourself with the key aspects of pastoral care and how they relate to the wellbeing of young people. This will help you articulate your passion and suitability for the role.
✨Showcase Your Interpersonal Skills
During the interview, be prepared to demonstrate your interpersonal skills. Share specific examples of how you've effectively communicated with young people, parents, or colleagues in the past. Highlight your ability to listen actively and respond with empathy, as these traits are crucial for this position.
✨Emphasise Your Flexibility and Sense of Humour
The role requires a flexible approach and a good sense of humour. Be ready to discuss situations where you've had to adapt quickly or use humour to diffuse tension. This will show that you can handle the dynamic environment of a school setting with grace.
✨Prepare Questions That Matter
At the end of the interview, you'll likely have the chance to ask questions. Prepare thoughtful queries about the school's pastoral care philosophy or how the team collaborates. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
