About the School - Downsend - Main
Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.
At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back.
We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.
The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of English to join our fantastic team.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.
At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.
We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools in 16 countries, ensuring every child gets an education that’s, quite literally, world class.
It’s an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.
About the role
To work collaboratively with the Heads of School to lead and promote the teaching of English. The English department at Downsend School is committed to promoting and motivating student progress in all areas of the subject. By providing diverse opportunities for students to engage with contemporary authors and poets, we aspire to shape the future of our students and inspire a love for English that will last beyond GCSE and A Level. There is an exciting future ahead with the appointment of Mrs Bex Tear as Executive Head and the opening of Sixth Form from September 2025.
This is a full-time, permanent role with a September 2025 start date.
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Who we are looking for:
To be considered for this position you will have Qualified Teacher Status and a good Honours graduate. You will be an outstanding and dynamic teacher with strong leadership skills and a proven track record of success at GCSE and A Level level. We would expect you to have understanding of the nature of independent education and high expectations. Eager to learn and attend INSET as necessary and prepared to commit to the School’s holistic ethos and Future Skills Vision.
Benefits at Cognita
* Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
* Teacher’s Pension
* Free lunch provided during Term Time
* School holidays and public holidays
* Free parking on site (subject to availability)
* School fee discount
* Exclusive third-party discounts
* Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: Sunday 27th April 2025
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.