THE SCHOOL
The Oratory is an HMC independent school for students aged 11 to 18, providing an all-round education of quality and purpose. We offer small class sizes and outstanding facilities on a wonderful South Oxfordshire country estate and yet we are within easy travelling distance of London, major motorways, railways and airports.
The Oratory School has high academic standards; however, we believe that an education is about more than statistics. We have a clear vision to ensure that each student flourishes and fulfils their maximum potential both in and far beyond the classroom. To this end, a wide variety of co-curricular activities enrich the students’ learning and all students get the opportunity to develop their specific talents to the full.
The Oratory is not a large school, and this enables each and every student to be known, valued and stretched as an individual within our nurturing community.
Founded in 1859 by Saint John Henry Newman - we are a Catholic school which welcomes students of all faiths or none. Visitors often comment on the inclusive community atmosphere of our school, which we believe nurtures confidence, self expression and a desire to learn and grow.
THE DEPARTMENT
The English Department is staffed by a committed team of specialist teachers and is housed across four dedicated classrooms, and a departmental office.
For GCSE, the Department follows the Edexcel IGCSE specifications in English and English Literature, and, at A Level, both Edexcel English Literature and English Language A Levels are offered. The department is in a modern set of classrooms which offer an inspirational setting for study. The team all have a genuine enthusiasm for literature and language and are committed to fostering high academic standards across a broad ability range, stretching our most able pupils while providing thoughtful support to those who need it. We teach across the full age range, from Year 7 through to Year 13.
Creative media will sit within the English Department.
ACCOUNTABLE TO
Head of Department or nominated member of the Senior Leadership Team.
LINKS BEYOND THE DEPARTMENT
- Liaising with the Head of Curriculum Support about the academic needs of pupils.
- Liaising with the Librarian about suitable material to be purchased for the library, and ways of encouraging use by pupils.
- Keeping informed of changes in syllabuses, teaching materials and methods, and other issues affecting the teaching of the subject and bringing these to the attention of other colleagues as is appropriate.
- Contributing as necessary to the working groups which promote academic development within the school. Some departments will have particular needs, entailing additional duties, which will usually be discussed at the time of appointment to the post.
THE ROLE
Due to pupil demand, an exciting new opportunity has arisen at The Oratory for a Teacher of Creative Media to introduce the Creative Media BTEC at Sixth Form. The ability and motivation to develop and deliver this new course would be highly advantageous.
In the initial stages, it is expected that the successful candidate will also contribute to the teaching of English while the BTEC becomes established. Experience or the ability to teach both subjects would therefore be beneficial.
The ability to develop a strong rapport with pupils that promotes high academic standards and intellectual curiosity is paramount, together with the enthusiasm to encourage pupils to pursue the subject further at Sixth Form and beyond. You will also be expected to contribute actively to and represent the department at key school events, including Parents’ Evenings, Open Mornings, Year Assessment Days, Careers Evenings, and the Sixth Form Choices Evening, thereby supporting pupil recruitment and progression.
In this role, you will have the opportunity to create a supportive and engaging learning environment for pupils of all abilities. You will also be expected to participate in school-wide initiatives and help promote the importance of your subject to parents and the wider community.
Microsoft Teams is used to support teaching and learning, including the sharing of resources, revision materials and the setting of homework. The Department also enriches the curriculum through regular theatre visits, author events and other co curricular opportunities that bring the subject to life.
In any school, and particularly in a boarding school, the emphasis is on total education, and we provide a wealth of opportunities for our pupils. The School is therefore keen to appoint teachers who would wish to play an active role in the co curricular programme. An interest in supporting activities such as sport, the arts, academic enrichment or the Combined Cadet Force would be an advantage.
SALARY
Dependent on qualifications and experience. The school has its own attractive salary scale.
BENEFITS
- Sports Centre membership with free access to the gym; squash courts, lane swimming and golf course.
- A meal while on duty during term time.
- Contributory pension scheme.
- Free parking.
SAFEGUARDING AND COMPLIANCE
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The following duties will be deemed to be included in the duties which you may be required to perform:
- Uphold and implement the School’s safeguarding policies and procedures.
- Promote a culture of vigilance and pupil welfare.
- Report any safeguarding concerns promptly in line with School procedures.
HOW TO APPLY
Applicants should complete the school’s application form and send together with a covering letter in PDF format to [email protected]
The closing date for applications is Friday 26 June 2026 with Interviews taking place soon thereafter.
Early applications are encouraged. We reserve the right to close this advertisement early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications or if we find a suitable candidate from early applications.
The interview process will include:
- Interview with the Headmaster and HR.
- Tour of the school.
- Delivery of a GCSE or A Level lesson observed by the Director of Studies.
Please send postal applications together with a covering letter to: Director of People, The Oratory School, Woodcote, Oxfordshire, RG8 0PJ
For any queries, please email [email protected]
The Oratory Schools Association Registered Charity No 309112 is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo checks with past employers, online and the Disclosure and Barring Service. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exception Order 1975, 213, 2020.
Work Location: In person
