Teacher of Religion and Philosophy

A talented, scholarly philosopher or theologian who is an inspiring and innovative teacher is required to teach in this academically selective, coeducational day school from September 2021. The department is responsible for both the teaching of Philosophy and Religious Studies and applicants’ academic interests might be in either or both of these disciplines, although the desire and ability to teach Sixth Form Theology would be a recommendation. The successful candidate would not necessarily have to teach both subjects but should be sympathetic to the importance of both. Applicants should be academically well qualified, will be a passionate advocate of their subject, and will be enthusiastic about teaching at all levels in this 11-18 school.

For all teachers new to Highgate, regardless of experience, there is a strong and supportive framework of induction to the School. There are opportunities to contribute to the pastoral and co-curricular life of the school, both aspects of which are valued at Highgate.

The Curriculum

Key Stage 3 develops the religious and philosophical literacy necessary for navigating a complexly religious and secular world, with an emphasis on developing a capacity for high quality critical argumentation. In Year 7 pupils are introduced to the study of religion and explore narratives in Christian Theology and Eastern faiths. In Year 8 pupils respond to the question ‘how can we flourish?’ by engaging with ethical, Jewish and Islamic notions of the good life. Year 9 offers pupils an introduction to philosophy, with units on political philosophy, metaphysics and epistemology, and secular and religious existentialism. 

Key Stage 4 allows for pupils to choose IGCSE Religious Studies. RS is a popular option at GCSE with multiple sets in both Year 10 and Year 11. We follow the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE specification (4RS1) and have developed a bespoke scheme of work designed to stretch our gifted students and to prepare them thoroughly for the advanced study of Christian Theology, Ethics and Philosophy. In 2019 we achieved 84% 9-8 at GCSE. 

Key Stage 5 allows for pupils to opt for either A-level Theology (OCR) or Philosophy (AQA). We pride ourselves on delivering courses that go well-beyond the requirements of the syllabus and prepare pupils to read Theology and Philosophy at university. Our approach places an emphasis on engaging with classic texts, allowing pupils the chance to develop their own interpretations and arguments.  Again, there are multiple sets in both Year 12 and in Year 13. Over the last three years, the department averaged over 70% A*/A for both Theology and Philosophy.

The Department 

The Department aims to foster an enthusiasm for the study of both disciplines and a spirit of academic ambition and enquiry in asking questions of Truth, Beauty, Goodness and God. We deliver exciting and challenging lessons, through a range of tasks and stimuli, and expect hard work and independence of thought from our pupils. 

The eight members of the department (including the Chaplain) share a common ethos and the atmosphere is very positive, productive and supportive. Colleagues willingly share expertise and resources and volunteer for extra responsibilities as and when necessary. The department regularly takes pupils on trips and conferences in London and further afield, and in recent years we have hosted guest speakers from the Universities of Chicago, Cambridge, LSE and King’s College London. There is an active Theology and Philosophy Society as well as a Philosophy reading group, which meets fortnightly. The department is well equipped and resourced, it has its own office and all classrooms have interactive whiteboards.

Working at Highgate

The School has in place DfE recognised arrangements for the Induction Year and the confirmation of NQT status and has considerable experience of and success in guiding entrants to the profession to qualified status.

Teachers at Highgate enjoy a welcoming, comfortable and exceptionally well-resourced environment and are provided with significant assistance from a range of support staff. Salaries are competitive. The School pays the employer’s contribution to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme. Terms are shorter than in the maintained sector. Staff have free access to the School’s sports facilities.

Highgate is strongly committed to inclusion and is an equal opportunities employer. We aim to create a welcoming, respectful and safe environment for all members of our community, from every ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, age, ability/disability, religion and background.  We know that more diverse teams are stronger teams, and that the more inclusive we are, the more our staff and pupils will feel a sense of belonging and will thrive. To enable us to make any reasonable adjustments, please let us know when you submit your application whether you have any special requirements.

Highgate is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to this post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service and overseas police check if necessary. Candidates from overseas must provide information about their past conduct, for example, by providing documents issued by overseas teaching authorities.

Robbie Leigh, the Head of Religion and Philosophy (robert.leigh@highgateschool.org.uk) or James Newton, the Deputy Head (Academic) (james.newton@highgateschool.org.uk) are very happy to answer any questions.