Prep School Teacher

Prep School Teacher
For September 2026

Welcome from the Headmaster

Dear Candidate,

Barnard Castle School is seeking to appoint an enthusiastic and committed Prep
School Teacher to join our thriving Preparatory School.

Barnard Castle School is a leading co-educational independent day and boarding
school for pupils aged 3–18, set within 50 acres of beautiful grounds in Teesdale,
County Durham. Known affectionately as “Barney”, the school combines strong
academic ambition with a deep commitment to character development, encouraging
pupils to become well-rounded and well-grounded individuals.

The successful candidate will be a passionate and innovative classroom practitioner
who can inspire young learners and contribute fully to the academic, pastoral and co-
curricular life of the school. The role offers the opportunity to work with motivated
pupils in a supportive and collaborative school community.

Applications are warmly welcomed from Early Career Teachers (ECTs) who will
benefit from a strong culture of mentoring and professional development.

Yours faithfully,

David Cresswell
HEADMASTER

The History of Barnard Castle School

Barnard Castle School has a rich and enduring history, deeply rooted in a tradition of learning and community. The
school traces its origins back to the nearby Hospital of St John, an educational and religious community established
by John de Balliol in 1229. John de Balliol also founded Balliol College, Oxford, and his passion for education and
opportunity remains central to our philosophy today.

In 1883, with a generous gift from Benjamin Flounders, a Victorian philanthropist, and the proceeds of St John's
Hospital, the present main school building was constructed. Since then, the school has grown and evolved, blending
its historical foundations with a forward-thinking approach to education.

In 2024, David Cresswell was appointed as Barney’s 11th Headmaster, continuing the school’s tradition of combining
timeless values with future-focused ambition. Today, Barnard Castle School remains a place where the lessons of
the past inspire the innovations of tomorrow, as we prepare our pupils to shape a changing world with courage,
kindness, and integrity.

Barnard Castle School: Shaping Tomorrow, One Step at a Time

"Parvis imbutus tentabis grandia tutus"
When you are steeped in little things, you shall safely attempt great things.

At Barnard Castle School – or 'Barney' as it is affectionately known – we believe that small steps lead to big strides.
Our vision is to inspire a generation of young people with the courage and kindness to dare greatly and shape a
changing world. We want them to shape the future while proudly standing on the shoulders of those who came before
them.

Ambition – Daring to achieve, with the courage to innovate and the curiosity to explore.
Character – Forged in challenge, strengthened by kindness, and rooted in integrity.
Community – Honouring the past, strengthening our school and town, and building global connections that last a
lifetime.

These principles guide everything we do – from our academic programmes to our vibrant co-curricular offering. Our
down-to-earth and inclusive community provides a safe environment for pupils to embrace challenges, pursue
passions, and develop a sense of purpose that will stay with them long after they leave Barney.

We are a school that blends tradition with forward-thinking ambition. Our origins trace back to the Hospital of St John,
founded in 1229 by John de Balliol, who also established Balliol College, Oxford. That same love of learning and
commitment to opportunity remains central to our philosophy today. As we look ahead to the 2030s, we continue to
invest in modern facilities and innovative teaching approaches to meet the evolving needs of our pupils and the wider
world.

Barney is a place where connections are made and memories are formed. It is not unusual to see Year 11 pupils
sharing lunch and conversation with younger peers or Sixth Formers mentoring new starters. Our pupils develop
confidence, resilience, and humility as they grow – always encouraged to support and celebrate each other's
successes.

Staff at Barney play a crucial role in this journey. We seek teachers who share our purpose and are proactive in
immersing themselves in the life of the school. Through our extensive 'Mind, Body, and Soul' programme, which runs
from 4pm to 5pm, staff have the opportunity to lead activities they are passionate about, fostering authentic
relationships beyond the classroom.

We are also committed to helping teachers be the best versions of themselves. Our comprehensive Continuing
Professional Development (CPD) programme offers opportunities to hone their craft, supported by regular teach
meets, peer collaboration, and other innovative initiatives. We want teachers who are ambitious about their own
development and passionate about lifelong learning, recognising that their growth directly benefits our pupils.

Our location, on the edge of the historic market town of Barnard Castle – recently recognised as one of the safest in
England – offers a unique combination of heritage, community spirit, and access to outstanding natural beauty. We
also benefit from partnerships with world-class universities in Durham, Newcastle, and York, enhancing our pupils'
educational experience and broadening their horizons.

At Barney, we believe that ambition, character, and community are not abstract ideals but lived experiences.
Together, we take small steps every day – steps that build towards remarkable achievements and a future as bright as
the generations of Barnardians who came before.

Our Vision

●  To be viewed as the leading independent co-educational day and boarding school in the North

of England.

Our Purpose

●  Our  purpose  as  a  school  is  to  inspire  minds  and  build  character,  within  a  down-to-earth,
inclusive community where everyone belongs, and hard work and good humour thrive.

Our aim

●  Our aim is to create a safe environment where pupils love their school, embrace small steps

toward great achievements, and are willing to dare greatly to shape a changing world.

Our Key Features

A Seamless Educational Journey

We are proud to offer a supportive environment where students can complete their entire educational journey. At every
stage, we nurture their growth, ensuring smooth transitions and a deep understanding of each student’s unique needs,
all within a close-knit, inclusive community that helps them flourish and prepares them for life beyond Barney.

Fully co-educational Boarding and Day School

We fully embrace co-education, ensuring equal opportunities for all students, regardless of gender. Our strong boarding
community enriches the school, enhancing cultural literacy through our international students. The extended school
day and week provide ample time to deliver a broad and varied educational experience.

Resilient Characters & Brave Minds

We have always offered an education that goes beyond exams, which is more crucial now than ever in a rapidly changing
world shaped by globalism, AI, and evolving careers. Our students need strong character, adaptable soft skills, and a
values-driven  foundation  to  thrive  in  this  uncertain  future.  With  resilience  and  a  supportive  community,  they  are
empowered to dare greatly and achieve beyond what they thought was possible.

A Broad Entry

Life  is  about  engaging  with  people  of  diverse  abilities  and  talents,  celebrating  personal  growth  rather  than  just  top
grades. As long as we can support individuals in accessing our education and they demonstrate the core character traits
we value, we are committed to supporting them on their journey.

Traditional yet Innovative

Barney’s rich history and cherished traditions have shaped generations of strong, humble individuals. While we
honour these beloved ‘Barneyisms,’ we remain focused on staying relevant and forward-thinking as we move further
into the 21st century.

Role Summary

The successful candidate will be an excellent classroom practitioner with a passion for primary education
and the ability to inspire curiosity and enthusiasm for learning while supporting the development of
confident, well-rounded pupils.

The role will involve teaching within the Prep School and contributing fully to the pastoral and co-curricular
life of the school.

Job Description

Job Title: Prep School Teacher
Reporting to: Prep School Head
Location: On School Site / Barnard Castle School
Contract: Full-time, Permanent
Start date: September 2026

Key Responsibilities

•  Plan and deliver engaging, creative and well-structured lessons that inspire pupils and foster a love of

learning.

•  Use innovative and evidence-based approaches to support and extend pupils’ learning.
•  Strong understanding of curriculum progression and prior learning, underpinned by secure knowledge of
the National Curriculum, to contribute effectively to collaborative planning in line with agreed schemes
of work.

•  Create a supportive, inclusive and stimulating classroom environment where all pupils can thrive.
•  Monitor, assess and track pupil progress, providing constructive feedback and guidance.
•  Contribute to the strong pastoral care of pupils and support their social and emotional development.
•  Encourage academic ambition while nurturing pupils’ character, confidence and independence.
•  Work collaboratively with colleagues across the Prep School and wider school community.
•  Contribute to the wider life of the school through co-curricular activities, trips, clubs or events.
•  Develop excellent professional relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues, supporting the strong

sense of community within the school.

Tasks and Duties
The successful candidate will carry out the professional duties of a class teacher as specified in the contract
and will be responsible to the Head of the Preparatory School.

Responsibilities include:
•  Teaching across the relevant Prep School age range as required.
•  Working within school policies and guidelines on curriculum, behaviour and organisation, maintaining

high standards of conduct and professional appearance.

•  Supervising and working effectively with classroom assistants where appropriate.
•  Promoting the wellbeing, health and happiness of pupils, fostering positive self-esteem and maintaining

high expectations for both work and behaviour.

•  Attending staff meetings, planning meetings and other professional meetings as required.
•  Maintaining high standards of classroom management and organisation, creating a stimulating and

engaging learning environment.

•  Coordinating or contributing to a curriculum subject area where appropriate.
•  Supporting pupils with Special Educational Needs, working closely with the SENCo and other

colleagues.

•  Assessing pupils’ progress and maintaining accurate records in line with school policy, including writing

reports for parents.

•  Promoting strong home–school partnerships through clear, positive and professional communication

with parents.

•  Taking an active interest in professional development, including attending relevant training and INSET.
•  Leading or supporting extra-curricular activities after school.
•  Participating in duty rotas to supervise pupils during the school day.
•  Attending parents’ evenings, school events and occasional evening or weekend activities when

required.

•  Providing cover for absent colleagues when necessary at the direction of senior staff.
•  Demonstrating enthusiasm for wider aspects of school life; an interest in outdoor education would be

welcomed.

Role Criteria

The successful candidate will demonstrate:
•  A strong passion for teaching and learning in a Prep School setting
•  The ability to build excellent relationships with pupils and place their wellbeing and development at the

centre of school life

•  The ability to inspire, motivate and engage young learners
•  The ability to be innovative and creative in their teaching practice
•  Strong classroom management and organisational skills
•  The ability to plan lessons that challenge pupils from their individual starting points
•  A strong understanding of curriculum development and progression in primary education
•  The ability to build positive and effective relationships with pupils, parents and staff
•  A commitment to high standards of teaching and pastoral care
•  Enthusiasm and a willingness to contribute to school life beyond the classroom

Professional Development
We offer a forward-thinking approach to professional development, with a wide range of CPD opportunities
to  support  innovation  and  career  progression.  Staff  are  part  of  a  collaborative  culture  that  values  shared
practice, reflection and continuous growth.

Early  Career  Teachers  will  benefit  from  structured  support,  mentoring  and  opportunities  to  develop  their
teaching practice within a collaborative and experienced staff team.

Why Join Barnard Castle School

Barnard Castle School offers a welcoming and collegiate environment where staff are valued and supported.
Teachers benefit from:

•  A strong and supportive school community
•  Motivated, well-rounded pupils who are eager to learn
•  Opportunities to contribute to a broad co-curricular programme
•  Excellent facilities set within beautiful surroundings
•  A culture that values professional development and collaboration

Above all, Barnard Castle School is a place where staff and pupils work together to build a community that
values academic ambition, character development and a genuine sense of belonging.

Recruitment Process

Enquiries
The Headmaster is offering an attractive and competitive salary to secure the best candidate. The School
offers a pension package with Royal London Group Pension Scheme. Other benefits include fee
remission for children in the School, use of our gym, sports facilities and swimming pool, free meals
during term time, free parking and access to various social activities throughout the year.

Applications

If you feel that you can meet the above requirements, then please submit a letter of application along with the
Barnard Castle School application form to the Headmaster. Only applications containing the requested
information will be considered.

Applications should be sent to:

Mr D J Cresswell
Barnard Castle School
Barnard Castle
County Durham
DL12 8UN

Information about Interviews:

Telephone: 01833 696098

Email: hr@barneyschool.org.uk

Deadline for applications:  9.00 AM Monday 20th April 2026

Shortlist Interviews at School: Wednesday 29th April 2026

Applicants should read carefully the application procedure – guidance for applicants, Policy on the
Recruitment of Ex-offenders and the Disclosure policy and the Safer Recruitment policy.

Barnard Castle School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and

young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is exempt from
the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and all applicants will undergo child protection screening,
including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS and Barred list check with Disclosure and
Barring Service.

Barnard Castle School is an equal opportunities employer.