Head of Key Stage 4 English

Headteacher: Mrs D Brahms BA(Hons), PGCE, NPQH

St. Mary’s is a well established, co-educational, Catholic 11-18 comprehensive school within the Wigan Local Authority and under the trusteeship of the Liverpool Archdiocese. We have a very supportive and inclusive pastoral system. The school is currently judged by OFSTED as a Good School.

Facilities on the 30 acre site are good and the school is within easy access of local trunk roads and motorways. The Governors have invested significant funds into the school site to build an Excellence Centre, a new dining facility, a dedicated Sixth form area, a new Technology and Geography base and a Student Support Centre. The Governing Body is the employer of staff in the school.  All staff are expected to be fully supportive of the school’s Mission Statement and the aims and practices of Catholic education. Teaching staff attend and contribute to assemblies and other liturgical functions which are part of the life of the school. The academic structure of the school is built on a Faculty basis. The student guidance structure, supported fully by form tutors, is led by Directors of each Key Stage.

The school takes pupils across the whole ability range which includes those aiming for university and those with special educational needs.  All pupils are of equal value and every child should achieve the highest possible standards. The highest standards of discipline are demanded. A uniform is worn and insisted on. The governors seek to appoint teachers who share such high standards and who are willing to support whole school policies in order to reinforce levels of conduct, behaviour and good manners. Extra curricular activities form an important part of children’s experience whilst at school and we particularly welcome applications from teachers who will provide additional opportunities for pupils outside normal lessons, either in their own subject or other areas.

In recent years pupils have represented their town, county and in some cases England and Great Britain in a variety of sports. The Music Department has an excellent choir which regularly performs at public events. A large number of staff are involved in school clubs at lunchtime and after school.

We work closely with other schools and have a collaborative model to offer students in order to offer students enhanced opportunities.  With effect from 1st September 2003 all appointments have been subject to the understanding that staff may be requested to work collaboratively.

Where a post is reserved for practising Catholics (e.g. Headteacher, Head of Religious Education) this will be clearly stated in the Job Description or Person Specification.  A very strong contribution is made to the school by teachers who, though not themselves Catholics, are completely in sympathy with the aims and practices of Catholic education.

If you would like to be part of our journey, please contact us or visit our website on the details below.