Director in Residence

• Innovation

We are creative and fearless in our work.

• Accountability

We take ownership of our work and lead from the front.

• Teamwork

We collaborate widely and build supportive environments.

Location Tormead Senior School 

Expiry Date: 15/06/2026 09:00

Published

12 hours ago

Closing

in a month

This is a Fixed Term, Full Time vacancy that will close in a month at 09:00 BST.

The Vacancy

Required for September 2026 until August 2027 

Part-time (20-30 hours per week), fixed term only 

Tormead School is a leading academically selective independent school for 800 girls aged 4–18 in Guildford, just 40 minutes from London.

We are seeking a talented and enthusiastic Director-in-Residence to join our thriving Drama Department. This is a rare opportunity for a graduate or early-career theatre professional with a background in Drama, Theatre, Performance or a related discipline to build experience in an ambitious school setting while developing their own creative practice.

Working closely with the Head of Drama, you will play a key role in the life of an ambitious and dynamic department, supporting teaching, rehearsals, productions and the wider creative programme. You will have the opportunity to direct or co-direct school productions from audition to performance, gaining valuable hands-on experience of shaping work from first concept to final curtain. Alongside supporting practical lessons and examinations, you will work closely with students as they develop their performance skills, technical understanding and confidence both on stage and behind the scenes. The role also involves contributing to stage management, lighting, sound, costume and set planning, organising resources, and supporting the day-to-day administration of the department.

We welcome applications from graduates in Drama, Theatre, Acting, or a closely related subject, as well as candidates with strong relevant practical experience. You will bring a secure grounding in performance, a developing understanding of directing live work, and a genuine enthusiasm for working with children and young people. The role would suit someone at an early stage in their career who is keen to deepen their experience in performance, directing or arts education. In return, you will join a supportive, collaborative team and enjoy the chance to make a visible contribution to a lively and successful school community. We are looking for someone who is organised, adaptable and energetic, and who will bring warmth, professionalism and commitment to every aspect of the role.

This is a flexible part-time position of 20–30 hours per week, with working patterns arranged to meet the needs of the School and the successful candidate where possible. The role may particularly appeal to candidates who are developing a professional creative portfolio alongside theatre work, training or freelance commitments. Accommodation may be available for the right candidate, making this an especially attractive opportunity for someone looking to establish themselves in a supportive, inspiring and well-resourced environment. Lunch and refreshments are provided during term time, together with free use of the school gym.

For further information please contact Emma Mitchell, Head of HR, at Emitchell@tormeadschool.org.uk or to apply please click 'Apply Now' at the top of the page.

The closing date for applications is Monday 15 June 2026 at 9.00am. Applications will be reviewed as they are received, and the school reserves the right to appoint before the closing date if a suitable candidate is identified. 

Tormead School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS check. We conduct online searches for all shortlisted candidates as part of our due diligence checks.

At Tormead, we take pride in employing talented individuals who love what they do and can bring that passion to our vibrant and progressive family of schools. We value the expertise, energy and commitment of our excellent team of academic and business staff, who work together in partnership to provide an outstanding educational experience for our students.

We pride ourselves on supporting our staff to ensure they THRIVE. We provide staff with ample opportunities for high quality training and development for every stage of their career. We encourage staff to get involved and to further their aspirations and progression. At Tormead, you will have access to excellent facilities and resources, and you will receive the guidance and support you need to excel in your role and to contribute your best.

We are proud to be a caring and inclusive community, and we welcome applicants from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and celebrates the diversity of both staff and students. Whether you are at the start of your career or highly experienced, if you have passion and expertise in your chosen field, then we want to hear from you!

Set in the beautiful Surrey countryside, Tormead is a short stroll from the historic town centre of Guildford, just 40 minutes by train to London, with excellent transport links by road and rail.

The Benefits

Benefit 1

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The Values

• Innovation

We are creative and fearless in our work.

• Accountability

We take ownership of our work and lead from the front.

• Teamwork

We collaborate widely and build supportive environments.

Tormead is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We believe that a robust, fair and transparent recruitment and selection policy plays a central role in achieving this aim. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

To read our Safeguarding and Recruitment policies, please go to our  Policies page.

Pay

Pension

Electric car scheme

Medicash plan

Food & Refreshments

CPD

Wellbeing

Sports

School fees

• Megan
• Marketing & Events Officer

"The culture is very positive, and people-focused - the staff here enjoy what they do!"

• Simon
• MFL Teacher

"I feel supported in my department with great colleagues, and I find my teaching has become fun again."

• Noreen
• Head of Learning Support

"I am proud to be part of a school that values inclusivity and innovation in learning support."

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