W I T H I N G T O N G I R L S ’ S C H O O L R E C R U I T M E N T P A C K : PA R T-T I M E T E A C H E R O F R E L I G I O U S S T U D I E S ABOUT WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL Withington Girls’ School was founded in 1890 by a small group of eminent and far-sighted Manchester families who wanted the same educational opportunities to be available for their daughters as were already available to their sons. In keeping with the Founders’ wishes, the School has remained relatively small, with 756 pupils in total with 163 in the Junior School (Years 3 - 6), 429 in the Senior School (Years 7 - 11) and 164 in the Sixth Form. The Head of Withington Girls’ School is a member of both the Girls’ Schools Association (GSA) and HMC (The Heads’ Conference). Pupils come from a wide geographical area around Greater Manchester and Cheshire, and from many different social, cultural and religious backgrounds, creating a diversity in which the School rejoices. The School is non-denominational and girls of all faiths, or none, are equally welcome. Through the Withington Girls’ School Trust, around 100 means-tested bursaries are offered each year according to need. The Governing Body is strategically focused and highly supportive of all areas of the School. A FOCUS ON EXCELLENT TEACHING AND PASTORAL CARE The School’s A Level and GCSE results are outstanding, with Withington ranked consistently in national league tables as the top independent school in the North West of England. The Sunday Times’ prestigious schools guide, Parent Power, named Withington the North West Independent Secondary School of the Year 2020, 2022 and 2023 and North West Independent Secondary School of the Decade in 2021. Withington has been listed in the annual Tatler Schools Guide to the UK’s top independent schools since 2012. Girls who gain a place as a result of the entrance examination normally take GCSE/IGCSE examinations in 9/10 subjects, followed by 3 or 4 A Levels. An exciting and varied Enrichment programme offers Sixth Formers core elements such as PSHCE, financial literacy and professional skills plus a range of choices from computer coding and languages, to mosaics, mindfulness and cooking and preparing healthy meals. In addition to the Enrichment Programme, which all Sixth Formers follow, many also complete an Extended Project Qualification (EPQ). Studies are directed towards encouraging a love of learning for its own sake, frequently going beyond the confines of the examined curriculum, as well as towards the ultimate goal of University entrance, including Oxford and Cambridge. The excellent quality of teaching and pastoral care is a major factor in the exceptional level of achievement secured by pupils, both within and outside the classroom. Staff are eager to share their passion and enthusiasm for their subjects and give willingly of their time to assist individual pupils outside lesson times; the relationship between pupils and staff is a particular strength of the School. The School runs on ‘the 3 Rs’ of Respect for self, Respect for others, and Responsibility for personal actions and its pupils thrive within the warm, friendly and supportive environment. Preparation for life after school starts early and involves a programme of careers advice, work experience and UCAS application guidance. Older pupils work with younger pupils in numerous ways, through the House system, extra-curricular activities, peer support and mentoring. A BREADTH OF ACTIVITIES Academic excellence is secured alongside an extensive range of extra- curricular opportunities, including Music, Drama, Sport, the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award, Young Enterprise Scheme, Model United Nations, Debating and Robotics Clubs, to name but a few. Sixth Formers volunteer as assistants in local primary schools, residential homes, hospices and hospitals. All pupils, throughout the School, engage in charity fundraising, collectively raising around £30,000 each year. There are special links with local charities, Wood Street Mission and The Booth Centre, The Christie hospital, two schools and a hospital in Kenya and a school in Uganda. Groups of Upper Sixth Formers engage in voluntary projects in The Gambia and pupils take part in World Challenge, or similar, expeditions. Academic departments offer subject-related trips and activities in addition to cultural trips at home and overseas. WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE ABOUT WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL AN INVESTMENT IN FACILITIES The School enjoys excellent facilities and has an ongoing programme of major developments. Recent projects have included a purpose-built Junior School building, a central, enclosed ‘Hub’ area at the heart of the school and an expanded and refurbished suite of university-standard Chemistry laboratories, all of which were completed in 2015. During 2018 a significant new sports facilities development was completed, reflecting the school’s ongoing commitment to the promotion of physical activity for girls, one of the school’s founding principles. In 2019 the outdoor netball courts and all-weather pitch were resurfaced to a high specification, bringing Withington’s sports facilities to an excellent standard across all areas. Outdoor fitness equipment - also installed in 2019 - has provided an innovative facility that benefits fitness, wellbeing and social interaction for senior pupils. In 2022 the school opened refurbished and extended dining facilities, a new conference suite, Learning Support area and accompanying offices. This reflects our commitment to providing the best facilities we can for our pupils, staff and all in the Withington community. A WELCOMING COMMUNITY The Development Office has strong links with alumnae as well as former and current parents and staff and has been successful in raising substantial amounts for the Bursary Appeal, for the new Chemistry laboratories, Sports facilities and for an Annual Fund which enables enrichment activities for current pupils. Withington Onwards (the past pupils’ association) and the Parent Teacher Association are active in, and committed to, supporting the School socially and financially. There are also close links with the local community including, for example, a range of Saturday morning lessons run by the School for gifted and talented boys and girls from local primary schools under the SHiNE Together programme and an annual event involving a number of primary schools across Greater Manchester known as Manchester Sings. Visitors often comment on the special atmosphere they find at Withington. We are extremely proud of our consistently outstanding record in public examinations and places gained at the most selective universities but also of the happily informal atmosphere, thriving co-curricular programme, community spirit, alumnae network - and engagement with education in its broadest sense which characterise this unique environment. True to the vision of our Founders, our pupils aim high, have boundless opportunities to discover their talents and develop a strong sense of responsibility. We value individuality, celebrate diversity, encourage our pupils to think for themselves and to understand the importance of tolerance an d teamwork. It is our aim that our pupils leave school at ease with themselves, socially aware and ready to face with confidence the challenges of life beyond. WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE SCHOOL ETHOS At Withington we aim to create an environment in which all pupils are supported and encouraged to reach their full potential, academically, socially and personally. True to our founding principles, we are a school where the pleasure of learning is its own reward. The Withington ethos recognises that understanding the value of learning and knowing how to learn sustains and enriches us throughout our lives. AIMS OF THE SCHOOL The golden rule of respect for self, respect for others and personal responsibility underpins our school community where diversity is celebrated, teamwork valued and every pupil is encouraged to play their part, older pupils and alumnae providing inspirational role models. Combining a wealth of extra-curricular activities with an exceptional academic experience, each girl has the opportunity to develop her talents, skills, interests and character, as well as a strong sense of responsibility which extends beyond the classroom and into the wider world. TO INSPIRE PUPILS WITH AN OUTSTANDING EDUCATION… TO CULTIVATE PERSONAL DEVELOPMENT, WELLBEING AND A SENSE OF SAFETY... ... through a strong, regularly reviewed curriculum, evidence-based teaching strategies, and transformative technology, ensuring relevance, inclusivity, engagement, and enhanced pupil outcomes ... by fostering an inclusive school environment, holistic pastoral care and enshrining strong values that shape the school’s culture and community relationships TO CHAMPION OUR COMMUNITY… TO EMPOWER FUTURE GENERATIONS… ... by ensuring the quality, motivation, and wellbeing of its staff, fostering meaningful relationships with parents, alumnae, and local stakeholders, and strengthening the school’s influence through robust community engagement ... by further securing long-term financial health, maintaining a strong and stable pupil body, developing additional income streams for the school, and implementing a well-defined marketing strategy to remain competitive and attractive to all WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE JOB DESCRIPTION The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. JOB TITLE: Part-Time Teacher of Religious Studies REPORTING TO: Head of Religious Studies DEPARTMENT OVERVIEW: ROLE OVERVIEW: CHILD PROTECTION & SAFEGUARDING: The Religious Studies Department currently consists of one full-time Head of Department and one part-time teacher of Religious Studies. Religious Studies is taught to all pupils from Years 7 – 9 and is an option at GCSE and A-Level. There is, in addition, a non- examined course in Religion and Philosophy taught to all pupils in Years 10 and 11. The role of Teacher of Religious Studies is available from 1st January 2026. It is expected that the post will be a 0.8 teaching timetable. The post holder will be required to teach across all key stages, up to and including A-Level and preparation for university applications. The post holder will be expected to make a contribution to the extra-curricular programme and help to promote the Department to maintain and improve student standards. This job description is written at a specific time and is subject to change as the demands of the School and the role develops. The role requires flexibility and adaptability and the employees of the School need to be aware that they may be asked to perform tasks and be given responsibilities not detailed in this job description. Withington Girls’ School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Dis-closure and Barring Service. The School will carry out online searches on shortlisted applicants and all appli-cants will be required to provide details of their online profile, including social media accounts, as part of their application. It is the post holder’s responsibility to promote and safeguard the welfare of children. You will comply with the Withington Girls’ School Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, and the requirement to report to the Desig-nated Safeguarding Lead any concerns relating to the safety or welfare of children. WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE JOB DESCRIPTION The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 1. 2. To deliver to pupils enthusiastic and expert teaching in Religious Studies, ensuring the use of varied and innovative techniques, differentiation and academic rigour in the various year groups To use a variety of teaching methods to suit pupils’ individual learning needs and to match approach to content; selecting appropriate learning resources and develop study skills through library, ICT and other sources, embracing the use of new technology including OneNote, MS Teams and Microsoft Forms 3. To encourage achievement and academic rigour, undertake regular and consistent assessment of the pupils’ progress, in line with departmental policy, and communicate with parents both orally and in written reports, according to school policy 4. To lead by example. To be punctual for lessons and monitor pupils’ punctuality and attendance; to ensure that behaviour and actions do not place pupils or teachers at risk or harm or at risk of allegations of harm to a pupil; act as a positive role model and in a professional manner at all times 5. To keep up to date with developments in the subject and new teaching methods and implement those in the classroom when appropriate, making full use of available facilities to include the regular use of peer observations 6. To monitor the performance of individual pupils in each class taught with respect to performance indicators 7. To ensure work is differentiated to take into consideration differences in ability, aptitude and learning style of all pupils in each class taught 8. To take on the role of Form Tutor/Assistant Form Tutor, developing good working relationships with the pupils and overseeing their well-being 9. To liaise and communicate effectively, as necessary, with Form Tutors and Heads of Year 10. To be prepared to deliver topics covered in form time 11. To be prepared to do duties and cover which may reasonably be required and to attend meetings at school and departmental level, related to the curriculum or organisation of the school 12. To contribute to the extra-curricular life of the school 13. To contribute to the school’s partnership work 14. To organise and attend trips relevant to curriculum areas, ensuring these are managed through the relevant system and within budget requirements 15. To assess, monitor and report in line with School policy and requirements WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE JOB DESCRIPTION The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES: 16. To attend Parents’ Evenings, ensuring that parent needs are met, and appointments are kept to time 17. To maintain good order among the pupils and safeguard their health, safety and welfare in accordance with school policy, both on the school premises and on school activities elsewhere 18. To become familiar with, and follow, all school policies 19. To ensure awareness of what is happening in and around the school; checking and responding, where necessary, to school emails at least once every school day 20. To develop self through CPD, attending training courses and other development opportunities 21. To undertake any other duties that might be reasonably requested by the Headmistress, Deputy Head Academic, Head of Department or any other member of the School’s SLT BENEFITS: In addition to providing a warm and inclusive working environment, Withington Girls’ School also offers a comprehensive package to its teaching staff. This package includes: 1. A competitive Withington Pay Scale 2. A choice of remaining within the Teacher’s Pension Scheme or taking a Defined Contribution Scheme 3. Free School lunches 4. 20% PPA time 5. Small examination class sizes 6. Fully Funded Healthcare Plan through Simply Health 7. Following induction, free use of the fitness suite WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE PERSON SPECIFICATION ESSENTIAL DESIRABLE METHOD OF ASSESSMENT QUALIFICATIONS • A good honours degree in a relevant subject • PGCE (Secondary) in Religious Studies or equivalent EXPERIENCE • Experience of teaching pupils in the relevant age range • Experience of working as part of a team SKILLS & KNOWLEDGE • Excellent subject knowledge • An ability to deliver creative and engaging lessons • Up to date knowledge of child welfare issues. • Excellent classroom management • Excellent organisational skills • Excellent command of English both spoken and written • Excellent interpersonal skills • ICT literacy • Strong Microsoft Office skills • Contents of application form • Production of the Applicant’s original certificates • Contents of application form • Evidence of results achieved • Interview • Professional references • Contents of application form • Interview • Professional references • Evidence of contributing to extra-curricular work of the department • Teaching experience beyond PGCE • Experience of teaching high ability pupils up to and including A-level • Ability to use pupil tracking data • Experience and/or awareness of the particular requirements of teaching in a single-sex girls’ school WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE PERSON SPECIFICATION PERSONAL COMPETENCIES & QUALITIES • Professionalism and outstanding role model for young people and colleagues • Passion for helping children and young people learn • Ability to form and maintain positive and appropriate relationships and personal boundaries with children and young people • Ability to engender confidence in young people • Commitment to ongoing professional development • Commitment to diversity and inclusion • Trustworthiness and integrity • Tact and diplomacy in dealing with others • Self-awareness; ability to seek and take advice • A warm, friendly and patient manner • Discipline and time management skills • A sense of humour • An outstanding ambassador for Withington Girls’ School, its ethos and values • Contents of application form • Interview • Professional references WITHINGTON GIRLS’ SCHOOL WHERE GIRLS SHINE THE SUNDAY TIMES SCHOOLS GUIDE In December 2024, Withington was named Independent School of the Year for Academic Excellence in the North West in the prestigious Sunday Times Parent Power Guide 2025. This marked the sixth consecutive year the school has received an award from The Sunday Times, including being named as North West Independent Secondary School of the Decade in the 2021 edition of the Schools Guide. TATLER SCHOOLS GUIDE 2025 “ In 1890 a liberal group, supported by the editor of the Manchester Guardian, founded WGS with the admirable aspiration to inspire and empower young women, and to equip them for the future. They’d surely be proud of their legacy.” “ The children here place great store on engaging with and giving back to their wider community, and last year spent approximately 17,730 hours on outreach activities.” “ The academic results are brilliant - 95 per cent of A-levels are A*-B - and the per¬forming arts flourish, with major productions involving the whole school... and if their tastes are a bit niche, the school has an impressive collection of harps to choose from.” GOOD SCHOOLS GUIDE REVIEWS Junior School: “ Withington Girls’ Junior School ticks an awful lot of boxes. Pupils have to be bright and able to work at a fast pace, but if this is your daughter then the teaching, environment, extracurricular opportunities and sheer exuberance and chutzpah of this place will open doors and opportunities. What’s not to like?” Senior School: “ Withington’s motto is ‘Ad lucem’ (towards the light), a most fitting way of encapsulating the standard of education at this remarkable school. It’s an inspiring place where very able girls who thrive on being fully engaged in a broad and stimulating curriculum will shine brightly.” Withington Girls’ School, Wellington Road, Fallowfield, Manchester M14 6BL Registered Charity No. 1158226 Tel: 0161 224 1077 Email: office@wgs.org