Chemistry Teacher

Chemistry Teacher
Fixed Term Maternity Cover

Part-Time (0.6 FTE minimum) from
September 2026
(or earlier if possible)

Full-time hours are available for the right candidate

Information for prospective
members of staff

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Appointment of a Chemistry Teacher

St Joseph’s College is seeking to appoint an inspirational and forward-thinking Chemistry
teacher, from September 2026 (or earlier if possible) to cover maternity absence on a part-
time basis (0.6 FTE minimum). Full-time hours are available for the right candidate. Please
specify your preference for working hours on the letter of application.

This is an exciting opportunity for a skilled classroom practitioner to join our friendly and
supportive school. The position is offered on a fixed term contract to cover maternity which
is due to end on 24 March 2027.

Please note that the contract is contingent upon the employee’s maternity leave. In the event
that the maternity leave is cancelled or not taken, the fixed-term contract may be terminated.

Closing Date: 9am Monday 13 April 2026.
Applications will be reviewed upon receipt and we reserve the right to close the vacancy
early, so early application is encouraged.

Contents

Message from the Head
About the Prep School
Duties and Responsibilities
Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks
Person Specification
About the College
Our Missions and Aims
Why St Joseph’s?
Non-contractual Benefits
Appointment Procedure
Interview Process
How To Find Us

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Message from the Head,
Mrs Laura Stotesbury

Thank you for your interest in St Joseph’s College.
I am delighted that you are considering our school
and I trust that this recruitment pack will provide
you with the information you require both about
the post and the College.

I believe that this is an exciting time to be joining St Joseph’s College. There
has been a significant growth in the pupil roll over the last few years and
the governors are continually looking to invest in the facilities. There is a real
appetite for what we have to offer as both an educational establishment and
an employer.

The College seeks to be a school which places an emphasis on providing
an all-round education: academic, pastoral, social and spiritual, where
pupils develop the attributes of commitment, collaboration, confidence,
communication and compassion through the various aspects of school life.
The College is a very happy place, and colleagues enjoy teaching here.

I hope that you will want to apply for this post. I recognise that much time
and thought goes into preparing an application and we, in turn, will give your
application serious consideration.

Mrs Laura Stotesbury
Head

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About the Department

At St Joseph’s College our aim is to produce excellent Scientists with high grades, but we wish all of our students to also
leave College with an enthusiasm and interest in the subject, regardless of their ability. To further this aim our groups are
kept small, and our lessons varied and practically based.  In Years 7 and 8 the pupils are taught to build on their key stage 2
knowledge as we aim to complete most of the key stage 3 course in two years. The course is based on the Oxford Science
Activate Course, with each unit written by subject specialists, but taught by one teacher. These courses are designed to
engender enthusiasm and to develop the investigative skills of the students, while at the same time to give them a good
grounding of factual information for their GCSE. Many pupils attend the very lively and successful Science Club.

In  Year  9  we  begin  our  GCSE  course.  This  is  the  AQA  GCSE  Combined  Science:  Trilogy  (8464)  and  AQA  GCSE
Chemistry  (8462).  The  course  is  organised  so  that  it  facilitates  our  teaching  by  subject  specialists.  For  each  of  the
areas  of  Biology,  Chemistry  and  Physics  we  have  a  head  of  subject,  but  it  is  expected  that  all  teachers  are  involved  in
discussing  the  course  outline  and  content,  and  the  integration  of  the  practical  assessment  work.  The  pupils  are  set
according  to  ability  with  all  GCSE  groups  taught  in  parallel  to  allow  movement  of  pupils  between  the  ability  groups.

In each year group, all sets are prepared for Higher tier although a few pupils may be entered for the Foundation Level
examinations and these students are therefore unable to continue with science at A level.

A Level Chemistry - at present the Edexcel course is followed (9CH0). Entry to the A level course is 6 or above for Chemistry,
or 7 or above for Combined Science. Our A level groups are small in size to allow for individual attention and support.

The  College  has  six  very  well  equipped  Science  Laboratories,  two  of  which  are  designated  for  Chemistry.  The  Senior
Chemistry laboratory is equipped with 3 fume cupboards. We are supported by two helpful and well qualified Lab Technicians.

The successful candidate will seek to contribute to the growing Science extra-curricular programme. Café Scientifique is the
College weekly Year 10 to 13 STEM club where staff, pupils and external speakers are given a platform to talk on any STEM
related topic they desire. STEM club offers KS3 a lively chance to investigate ideas beyond the curriculum.

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Duties and Responsibilities

To be an effective professional who demonstrates thorough curriculum knowledge, can teach and assess effectively,
take responsibility for professional development and has pupils who achieve well. Members of staff are expected to
comply with any reasonable request from a manager to undertake work of a similar level that is not specified in this job
description.

Main Requirements
Three qualities are essential:
1.  You must be a first-rate teacher who has a real enthusiasm for both your subject and how it is most

effectively taught

2.  You must enjoy the pastoral aspects of teaching
3.   You must want to contribute to the extra-curricular activities of the Department and of the College

In fulfilling the requirements of the post, the teacher should demonstrate essential professional characteristics,
and in particular will:
•  Inspire trust and confidence in pupils and colleagues
•  Build team commitment with colleagues
•  Engage and motivate pupils
•  Demonstrate analytical thinking to improve the quality of pupils’ learning
•  Contribute to the College improvement/development planning and promote the learning priorities of the

College Development Plan

•  Contribute to the development and/or implementation of College policies
•  Participate in the professional development process to advance pupil learning and enhance professional

practice in line with the College aspirations and priorities

•  Uphold the values and mission of St Joseph’s College and maintain them both inside and outside the

classroom

•  Promote the wider aspirations and values of the College

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks

Planning, Teaching and Class Management

•  Undertake the teaching of designated classes
•  Take an active part in curriculum development including the preparation of Schemes of Work
•  Plan appropriately to meet the needs of all pupils, through a range of teaching strategies and resources
•  Write comprehensive weekly plans
•  Be able to set clear targets, based on prior attainment, for pupils’ learning
•  Make effective use of a range of assessment, monitoring and recording strategies
•  Keep appropriate and efficient records
•  Maintain good order and discipline amongst all pupils, in accordance with the College policy
•  Report to parents on the development, progress and attainment of pupils, in line with the College Policy
•  Provide a stimulating classroom environment, where resources can be accessed appropriately by all pupils
•  Contribute to meetings relating to teaching and the curriculum, and advise the Head and other colleagues

with regard to subject development

•  Plan for, organise and direct the work of support staff within the classroom

Pastoral Duties

•  Be a class teacher / form tutor to an assigned group of pupils
•  Promote the general progress and wellbeing of individual pupils and of the class as a whole
•  Liaise with the Prep Pastoral Lead to ensure implementation of the College pastoral system
•  Register pupils, accompany them to assemblies, encourage their full attendance and their active participation

in all aspects of College life

•  Alert appropriate staff to any problems being experienced by pupils
•  Communicate as appropriate with parents of pupils and persons or organisations outside the College

concerned with the welfare of the individual pupils after consultation with appropriate staff

•  Contribute to PSHEE through the weekly programme as appropriate
•  Lead section and class collective worship as required.

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Other Professional Requirements

•  Attend meetings, parents’ evenings, open evenings and other functions as

appropriate

•  Organise and supervise extra-curricular activities, as reasonably requested
•  Undertake supervisory duties during the school day, including running a lunchtime

club

•  Meet all deadlines reasonably requested
•  Adhere to all policies (including Health and Safety and Safeguarding) and raise any

concerns to the appropriate person

•  Maintain an up-to-date knowledge of good practice in teaching techniques
•  Take account of wider curriculum developments
•  Undertake professional development to enhance teaching and pupils’ learning

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Person Specification

Criteria

Essential

Desirable

Education,
Qualifications
and Experience

Degree
Up-to-date knowledge of the curriculum and current educational developments
and initiatives.

A recognised teaching qualification, such as a PGCE
Qualified Teacher Status

Skills and
Attributes

Personal
Qualities

Excellent subject knowledge
Good communication and inter-personal skills
Good classroom management skills
Empathy with pupils across the age and ability range
Ability to employ a range of effective teaching, learning styles and assessment
methods
Ability to motivate and inspire pupils
Capacity to deal sensitively with problems raised by pupils
High expectations of pupils

Passion for teaching
Excellent role model for pupils
Enthusiastic and able to enthuse and encourage others
Ability to establish good working relationships and work well in a team
Flexible, motivated, able to work unsupervised and an ability to deal with
unpredictable situations

Other
Requirements

Fully supportive of the College’s Catholic tradition
Commitment to the ethos of the College
Willingness to contribute to extra-curricular activities
Commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing of all pupils

Experience of the role of tutoring for a group of pupils
Innovatory approaches to curriculum delivery
Ability to generate ideas and drive initiatives
Ability to defuse difficult situations using different strategies such as careful
listening, sensitive use of humour, praise and recognition

Forward-thinking approach

Commitment to the whole life of the College
Able to promote the image of the College through an articulate and
confident approach

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About the College

St Joseph’s College is the leading independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 in Berkshire. It is fully
co-educational and consists of the Senior School (ages 11 to 18) and the Prep School (ages 3 to 11). The Senior School
and Prep School are located within a single campus.

Awards
The College has won several awards over the last few years including TES Independent School of the Year, Outstanding
Progress at the Education Business Awards and Outstanding Leadership Team at the Leadership Awards.

Ethos
St Joseph’s is a Catholic school welcoming pupils of every faith or no faith. Pupils are educated in an atmosphere where
Christian values and standards are recognised and established. The size of our classes means everyone receives the
individual guidance and support they need to achieve their potential. Staff, pupils and parents form strong links, with a
focus on both the academic progress and the well-being of each pupil.  We encourage all pupils to develop an awareness
of their own role in society.

Points of Entry
The main points of entry to the school are at age 3, 11, 13 and 16. Entry into the Senior School is by formal assessment,
and around 60% of applicants to the Senior School are from maintained primary schools.

Leavers’ Destinations
The majority of Sixth Form leavers go on to their choice of university to study a diverse range of subjects. Examination
results are strong and improving year-on-year, however our focus is very much on producing young adults who also have
skills for life such as confidence, social skills and a good understanding of the world around them.

Recent Developments
During the past six years the Governors have taken a number of measures to develop the College. In addition to
becoming co-educational these include an emphasis on marketing and a substantial investment in facilities, buildings and
staff. Consistently rising pupil numbers provide momentum for growth and the confidence to make further investment.

The Future
Looking to the future, St Joseph’s will continue its ambitious plans to enhance and develop the College. However, we will
ensure that as we grow, our caring ethos remains at the heart of the College. The warm and friendly nature, together
with the way pupils display concern and respect for one another, are often commented upon by visitors and parents. We
are proud of this and it is one of the most rewarding aspects of working here.

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At St Joseph’s, our mission is to encourage, inspire, challenge and support pupils to fulfill their potential in a community founded on Catholic Christian values.

We aim to develop life skills of compassion, commitment, collaboration, confidence and communication in each pupil, throughout each of their years at the school.

Our Mission and Aims

The College’s ISI inspection took place in November 2025

The recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate provided a positive evaluation of provision
across all areas of school life. The report highlights strong academic outcomes, high-quality pastoral support
and a rich co-curricular offer. Inspectors noted that the ethos and values of St Joseph’s College are clearly
reflected in pupils’ daily experiences, fostering an environment built on inclusivity, respect and compassion.

The report recognises the commitment of staff across the College, whose work enables pupils to thrive
both within and beyond the classroom. Their dedication supports pupils’ personal development, academic
progress  and  engagement  with  the  wider  life  of  the  school.  The  contribution  of  Governors  is  also
acknowledged, particularly in providing consistent oversight and strategic guidance.

Inspectors  noted  the  positive  involvement  of  parents  and  pupils,  whose  views  contributed  meaningfully
to the overall findings. Feedback shared during the inspection reflected strong levels of confidence in the
school’s direction, culture and support systems.

As part of their process, the inspection team outlined recommended areas for continued improvement.
These include developing a comprehensive digital strategy and further enhancing the use of data to inform
classroom planning. Both priorities are already incorporated into the College’s Vision 2030 strategic plan,
ensuring they are actively being progressed.

Overall, the inspection report presents an encouraging and accurate reflection of the work undertaken
at St Joseph’s College to support every pupil in achieving their best. Consistently high outcomes at GCSE
and A level, alongside strong university offer rates, further demonstrate the effectiveness of the school’s
approach to teaching, learning and holistic development.

ALL AREAS WERE ‘MET’

The Independent Schools Inspectorate is appointed by the Department of Education to
inspect independent schools in England. The inspectors report on the extent to which the
statutory Independent School Standards and other applicable regulatory requirements
are met, collectively referred to in this reports as ‘the Standards’.

Schools are expected to meet the robust standards in each of the sections listed below:

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

1

2

3

4

Leadership and
Management, and
Governance

Quality of
Education, Training
and Recreation

Pupils’ Physical
and Mental Health
and Emotional
Wellbeing

Pupils’ Social and
Economic Education
and Contribution
to Society

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Safeguarding

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

St Joseph’s ISI inspection in November 2025 found that all standards in all
areas were ‘met’.

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Why St Joseph’s?

Education for boys and girls from age 3 to 18

At St Joseph’s we offer:
•  A safe and happy environment in which academic and social skills are developed
•
•  A varied curriculum and excellent facilities
•  A strong sense of community
•  High academic reputation
•  Wide range of extra-curricular activities including a strong tradition of music and drama

St Joseph’s is staffed by teachers who combine the best in traditional educational values with a sharp awareness of what is
appropriate for pupils who need to be prepared for the twenty-first century. Our pupils are encouraged to be confident,
questioning, independent learners, whilst at the same time developing a moral and spiritual sense of purpose in their lives
and in their studies.

Salary
The College has its own salary scales, with starting salaries dependent on the experience and qualifications of the
successful candidates. Salary scales are reviewed annually by the Governors, to ensure they remain competitive. Annual
salary is paid by bank transfer on the last working day of each month, in 12 equal monthly instalments.

Non-contractual benefits

School fee reduction
Staff at St Joseph’s College (who are not employed on casual contracts) are eligible for a staff discount on basic tuition
fees of 50% for full-time staff, pro rata for part-time staff, subject to their child(ren) meeting the entrance requirements.

Childcare vouchers
St Joseph’s participates in the government’s salary sacrifice childcare voucher scheme or government tax-free childcare
scheme.

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Staff Room
There is a professional, friendly and supportive Staff Room,
together with departmental workspaces throughout the school.

The above non-contractual benefits are currently available to
staff. They are at the discretion of the Governors who reserve
the right to withdraw them without notice.

Pension
The College pays its teachers a total remuneration package
which provides teachers with flexibility in determining the level
of contributions paid into their pension. This provides staff with
the option to increase their take home salary by reducing their
total pension contribution (employer and employee) or vice
versa.

All teachers are automatically enrolled into the College defined
contribution pension scheme – the Aviva Pension Trust for
Independent Schools (APTIS).

The pension scheme includes:
• Employer contributions matched to Employee contributions.
The limiting factors are simply the individuals’ salary and
statutory limits. Contributions can be varied annually by staff to
meet changing circumstances as required.
• An Employee Assistance Programme provided by Care First.

Further literature on the APTIS scheme, together with
examples about how the level of pension contribution can be
varied, is available from the Bursar.

Drinks and snacks
Tea, coffee and biscuits are available to all staff at break time,
and there is access to hot drinks throughout the day. Snacks
and light meals are provided to staff when working later in the
evening for school events.

Lunch
A duty meal may be obtained from the Dining Hall.

Laptop
Teaching staff are loaned a school laptop to assist with their
teaching and administration, and docking stations are available
throughout the school.

Use of a private vehicle
Subject to a journey being approved by the Bursar or Head,
staff can use their private vehicle for school journeys during
working hours. The insurance will be under the school’s
insurance and staff can claim for mileage.

Car parking
All staff may park in the school car park, subject to the
availability of a space. A valid school parking permit must be
displayed clearly on the windscreen of any car parked onsite.

Counselling
Staff have access to a 24 hour telephone counselling helpline.
In addition, the lay chaplain or visiting school counsellor may be
able to see staff.

Legal advice
Staff have access to a 24 hour legal information telephone
helpline, covering issues such as consumer rights, debt, tax and
personal injury.

Healthcare helpline
A telephone based healthcare support service is available to all
staff at no cost.

Swimming pool
Staff are permitted to use the school swimming pool during
designated staff swimming sessions.

CPD and training
Professional development is nurtured and encouraged. The school
has a full annual INSET programme and staff have access to
the National College Platform. There is strong support for new
teaching staff. Early Career Teachers can undertake their accredited
ECT years through the Independent Schools Teacher Induction
Panel and a number of members of staff have completed teaching
qualifications whilst employed at St Joseph’s.

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Appointment Procedure

•  Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the College

Teaching Application Form in full, accompanied by a covering letter.

•  The covering letter should illustrate specifically why you think you should be

considered for this role, giving clear evidence of how your skills and experience
meet the requirements of the role. You should give clear examples, and relate
these to the job description and person specification.

•  These should be emailed to recruitment@sjcr.org.uk or alternatively sent by

post to Mrs Guest, HR Coordinator, St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands Road,
Reading, Berkshire RG1 5JT. Electronic application is encouraged and preferred.
•  Closing Date: 9am Monday 13 April 2026. Applications will be reviewed
upon receipt and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early, so early
application is encouraged.

•  All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of two satisfactory

references, one of which must be from your current or most recent employer.
For shortlisted applicants for teaching posts, references may be taken up prior to
interview.

•  St Joseph’s College employs personnel who are best qualified for the post

without discrimination in respect of age, disability, race, gender or native origin.
•  The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

•  Successful applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks

with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

•  A copy of the College Recruitment, Selection and Disclosures Policy and
Procedures can be found on the College website: https://www.sjcr.org.uk/
vacancies/

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Interview Process

•  All candidates invited to interview must bring documents confirming any educational and professional qualifications that are necessary or relevant for the post (e.g. the original or

certified copy of certificates, diplomas etc). Where originals or certified copies are not available for the successful candidate, written confirmation of the relevant qualifications must
be obtained by the candidate from the awarding body.

•  During your visit you should expect to attend a number of interviews with different members of staff. We will also assess your suitability to work with children.

•  You will also be required to teach a lesson which will be observed. You will be provided with a brief for the lesson beforehand.

•  In addition to formal interviews there will also be an opportunity for shortlisted candidates to tour the College and to meet prospective colleagues.

•  The College requests that all candidates invited to interview also bring with them:

•  A current driving licence including a photograph, a passport and a birth certificate
•  A utility bill or financial statement issued within the last three months showing the candidate’s current name and address
•  Where appropriate any documentation evidencing a change of name
•  Proof of entitlement to work and reside in the UK

Please note that originals of the above are necessary. Photocopies or certified copies are not sufficient.

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How to find us

•  St Joseph’s College is situated in central Reading, near the University
and the Royal Berkshire Hospital. It is close to the M4 (Junction 11)
and has excellent transport links.

•  If travelling by train, the school is approximately 20 minutes’ walk
from Reading Station, or alternatively there are a number of local
buses that stop close by.

•  To accurately locate the College entrance at 64 Upper Redlands

Road on some GPS satellite navigation systems it may be necessary
to use the postcode RG1 5JP.

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