Teacher of Religion and Philosophy

Teacher of Religion and Philosophy

January or September 2020

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 January 2020, or possibly from September 2020. 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 preferable. 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 the skills necessary for high quality critical argumentation. In Years 7 and 8 pupils engage in a two-year study of world religions which includes the exploration of Christian Theology, Theology and the Arts, Eastern Philosophy, Islam and Judaism, and an examination of religion, peace and conflict. Throughout, there is an emphasis both on learning about religions and learning from them. In Year 9 pupils undertake a one-year Philosophy course designed to introduce them to some of the key questions in Moral Philosophy, the Philosophy of Religion, Epistemology and the Philosophy of Mind. 

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 the Theology or the Philosophy track of the CIE Pre-U Philosophy and Theology. Again, there are multiple sets in both Year 12 and in Year 13. For the Philosophy track we offer papers in Epistemology and Philosophy of Mind. For Theology we offer papers in New Testament and Ethics. Over the last three years, the departments averages 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 and King’s College London. There is an active Religion 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.

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.

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.