SHIPLAKE COURT LIMITED

Deputy Head Academic
Candidate Information Pack
Starting September 2026

Welcome from the Headmaster

Dear Applicant,

The word I hear mentioned most regularly when
speaking to the pupils, parents, and staff of
Shiplake College is ‘community’. So, thank you
for taking the time to consider the role of Deputy
Head Academic, as it represents a wonderful
opportunity to join our very special Shiplake
community.

Shiplake College is an HMC co-educational boarding
and day school offering a holistic education for
around 580 pupils from Year 7 to Sixth Form.
There has been a co-educational Sixth Form since
1998 and since September 2023 girls have been
welcomed into Year 7, as we continue our journey
to become a fully co-educational place of learning.
We are nestled in leafy South Oxfordshire, five
minutes from Henley, and sit right on the River
Thames. It is a beautiful place to work.

As well as providing a fantastic learning and living
environment for young people, Shiplake offers
an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding working
environment.

We strive to recruit the best possible teaching and
support staff to drive the College forwards and
ensure we continue to provide the best possible
rounded education for our pupils.

Above all, Shiplake is a school where we try
to live out authentically our three core values
– the Three Is – Inclusive, Individual, and
Inspirational.

‘Inclusive’ is our cornerstone with our strong sense
of community in which everyone has value and
where the prevailing culture is one of kindness.

‘Individual’ represents our all-ability school in
which we not only recognise but also celebrate that
everyone is different - thank goodness for that!
This is a personal best school.

And finally, ‘Inspirational’ - the pre-requisite at
Shiplake is that everyone – students and staff alike
- turn up each day with a smile, a positive attitude,
and a willingness to engage with all aspects of
school life.

Shiplake College is a school where academic rigour
is non-negotiable, but character development
is just as important. We strive to help students
develop broad interests across a wide range of
co-curricular areas, bolster self-esteem, and give a
sense of our place in the wider world with the aim
to make a positive difference to society.

Embracing the lifestyle at a busy and vibrant
boarding school is paramount for anyone wishing to
work at Shiplake. Knowing our pupils well enables
us to ensure that they get the best from their
education here, and this is a pivotal part of any role
at the College. This is a great opportunity for the
right candidate and ‘fit’ is very important to us.

Thank you for your interest in working at Shiplake
College and, as we look to an exciting future, I
hope that you will consider being part of that story.

Tyrone Howe

The College

Shiplake College is a thriving and relatively young HMC school. In
September 2025 we welcomed 580 boarding and day pupils aged 11-
18 (up from 536 the previous term). There has been a co-educational
Sixth Form since 1998 and since September 2023 girls have joined in
Year 7 (now making up 40% of all co-educational year groups) as the
College goes fully co-educational.

Overlooking the River Thames, two miles upstream of the famous
Henley Royal Regatta stretch, pupils enjoy a beautiful and inspiring
63-acre rural site. The College is conveniently located near major air,
railway and motorway networks, close to Reading, London and Oxford
and just 40 minutes from Heathrow.

Full, weekly and flexi-boarding is available from Year 9, with ad hoc
‘overnight stays’ also an option for day pupils.

Every pupil is placed at the heart of Shiplake life and the College’s
ethos is underpinned by the Three Is – Inclusive, Individual and
Inspirational.

Shiplake provides a friendly, supportive and structured environment to
bring out the best in each and every pupil. Renowned for outstanding
pastoral care and personal development, the College welcomes pupils
with wide-ranging skills and talents, who will make the most of the
many opportunities offered to them.

The College provides an education that is tailored to the individual,
achieved through engaging and inspirational teaching, delivered in
small classes where the teachers can know and understand each
pupil’s method of learning.

The College continues to see year-on-year improvements in
examination results. In August 2025, Shiplake leavers achieved
excellent public examination grades, with the best ever GCSE results
setting a new academic benchmark for the College. At GCSE, pupils
achieved 38% of 9-7 grades and 64% grades 9-6, an increase from
34% and 58% respectively in 2024. Overall, 93% of GCSE grades were
marked 9-4 (93% in 2024). At Sixth Form, the percentage of A*-C
grades was 82%, and 59% at A*-B.

In addition to a strong academic foundation, the College offers
excellent sporting, artistic and co-curricular opportunities. Two
afternoons are reserved for an array of clubs and activities, including a
comprehensive outdoor education programme, with pupils encouraged
to extend their horizons and experience new challenges and
responsibilities.

Academic lessons take place Monday to Friday and each day ends
with an hour of academic support during which pupils undertake
independent study or seek help with homework from teachers. Sports
training takes place on three days a week, with the majority of fixtures
scheduled for Saturday mornings.

130 weekly and full boarders become fully integrated into Shiplake’s
inclusive and welcoming environment. International pupils join us from
all over the world, currently from 17 different countries, and represent
approximately 4% of the school population. Full boarders take part
in a vibrant weekend programme of trips and activities on Saturday
afternoons and Sundays, with day pupils and weekly boarders able to
enjoy additional family and down time at home.

School Development
The stunning grounds are a remarkable
combination of old and new; of the traditional and
the up-to-date. Although only founded in 1959,
Shiplake occupies a site which includes an original
late-nineteenth century mansion, still dominating
the main school buildings.

The school is equipped with modern amenities,
including a contemporary Thinking Space, multi-
purpose Lecture Theatre, a multi-activity centre
with climbing wall, fitness suite and indoor archery/
rifle range, and Marjorie’s, a café where Sixth Form
students can socialise and work independently.

1959: College Founded
1990: Goodwin Building (Classrooms)
1998: Sixth Form Became Co-educational
2002: College House (Year 13 Boys)
2008: First Year 7 (Lower School) Joined
2009: Gilson (Girls) House
2014: John Turner Building
2020: Davies Centre and Marjorie White Building
2023: First Year 7 Girls Joined
2024: Bevan (Science) and Jubilee Classrooms
2024: Phillimore Fields
2025: Paddocks Artificial Pitches
2025: Sixth Form Centre

Further investment and development will help to
ensure that the College’s future is even brighter
than its past.

Inspection
Shiplake was visited by ISI in September 2025. The
inspection went extremely well and we met all the
regulatory standards. Shiplake was also awarded
a ‘significant strength’, which reflects that “pupils
who participate in sports, such as rowing, are given

guidance in balancing their academic, sporting
and wider commitments in a way which effectively
promotes their wellbeing.”

Admissions
Entry points are normally at Year 7 (11+), Year 9
(13+) and Year 12 (16+). Prospective families are
encouraged to arrange an individual visit or attend
an open morning. Academic, Art, Music, Drama and
Sport Scholarships, and means-tested bursaries,
are available.

The College embraces pupils from a wide range
of ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as
diverse intellectual and physical talents. As a
Church of England school, pupils at Shiplake are
gently encouraged to lead an active spiritual life
throughout their time at the College.

Governance
Shiplake College is a charitable company and is
privileged to be supported by a highly experienced,
knowledgeable and diverse board of governors.
This helps to shape future strategies and inform
key decisions to ensure the College continues to
maintain the highest possible standards.

Community
There are strong links with the local community
and pupils are given every opportunity to get
involved in local events and to offer service
wherever appropriate.

Fundraising for charities takes place year on year.

The Shiplake Connected platform helps maintain
and develop the links between the College, parents,
alumni (known as Old Vikings) and former staff.

Job Description

The Headmaster is seeking to appoint a
professional, strategic and committed Deputy
Head Academic.

An exciting opportunity has arisen for an
exceptional educational leader to join our Senior
Management Team as the Deputy Head Academic.
This is a pivotal role at the heart of our College’s
academic life, offering the chance to shape
curriculum, drive teaching excellence and lead
strategic development.

As the Deputy Head Academic, you will be at the
forefront of teaching and learning, responsible
for implementing the school’s academic vision,
overseeing all aspects of the curriculum,
examinations and strategic academic development
across the College.

This role is the driving force for academic
excellence through quality teaching initiatives
and continuous improvement in pupil outcomes.
You will be responsible for teaching quality and
staff development, including monitoring academic
performance, overseeing the CPD programme
and will play a key role in recruiting outstanding
teachers based on curriculum needs and pupil
choices.

You will work closely with the Assistant Heads
(Sixth Form, Academic and Inclusion) to monitor
academic performance across all year groups and
implement effective intervention strategies to
support all pupils in achieving their potential.

As part of the Senior Management Team, you will
work closely with the Headmaster to implement the

school’s vision and ethos. You will play an active
part in shaping whole-school policies and long-term
strategic planning, act as the College’s external
representative on academic matters, and champion
the College’s core aims and values in everything
you do.

Essential Requirements

Curriculum Leadership
•  Oversee curriculum design, to ensure it is broad,
challenging to all pupils, and provides a balance
of traditional and vocational pathways

•  Lead and oversee the structure of the day and

week and all academic operations

•  Chair regular meetings of the Academic

Leadership Team and the Heads of Department

•  Be responsible for the development and

implementation of all academic and curriculum
policies and ensure these are aligned with
national standards

•  Work with the Senior Management Team,

contribute to the College’s strategic aims, with
principal responsibility and accountability for
all aspects of the College’s academic work,
performance and development

•  Contribute to governors’ meetings, with an

annual update on examination results to the
Main Board, and termly contributions to the
Education and Safeguarding Committee

•  Analyse the examination results and value-

added performance of each department, sharing
the findings with staff and governors, and set
appropriate and challenging academic targets for
the College

Teaching and Learning
•  Oversee academic initiatives and development to ensure high-
quality teaching and to seek continual improvement in pupil
outcomes

•  Work with the Assistant Heads (Academic and Sixth Form) and
Housemasters to monitor academic performance across the
College, and implement effective intervention strategies

•  Chair Heads of Departments meetings and other academic working

groups

•  Monitor and set the quality and pace of learning

•  Work with classroom teachers and Heads of Departments to

monitor and manage the classroom environment and displays

•  Monitor and promote the effective use of Prep

•  Anticipate educational trends and developments and lead on the

opportunities that change can present for Shiplake College

•  Ensure curriculum guides and options booklet are up to date

•  Overseeing the CPD budget and INSET, support the professional

development of teaching staff

•  Work with the SENDCO, promote effective and inclusive teaching

practices

•  Manage the use of academic data, including oversight of tracking

all cohorts of pupils

•  Share baseline data with teaching staff, ensuring that all pupils are

striving to achieve their academic personal bests

Staff Development and Management
•  Line-manage senior academic staff and contribute to their wider

professional development, including: Assistant Heads (Sixth Form,
Academic, and Inclusion), core Heads of Department, Head of
Vocational Studies, Exams Officer

•  Ensure Heads of Departments and Year Heads are fulfilling their

roles and provide support as necessary

•  Together with the Headmaster, lead the annual review of the

performance of each academic department, setting appropriate
targets

•  Deploy teaching staff effectively to ensure a quality provision

across the College

•  Review the teaching staffing requirements in light of pupils’ subject

choices, and play a leading role in the recruitment process of new
staff

Assessment and Examinations
•  Oversee the work of the Exams Officer and be accountable for the

public examination series

•  Ensure a robust programme of internal examinations linked to the

reporting cycle

•  Oversee the creation of a fair and balanced timetable, taking into
account the complex needs of different departments and deploy
staff efficiently and effectively taking account of their skills,
knowledge, attitudes and career development

•  Oversee the cycle of academic reporting and Parents’ Conferences

•  Ensure academic reports are written in a timely, informative and

attitudinally correct manner

Strategic Leadership

•  Create and implement a strategic academic plan

•  Directly assist the Headmaster with:

•  Determining, planning and implementing the

direction of whole school issues

•  Work closely with the Headmaster and Senior
Management Team to implement the College’s
vision and ethos

•  When needed, deputise for the Headmaster in
his absence, ensuring continuity of leadership

•  Contribute to whole-school policy making, and

long-term planning

•  Represent the school externally in academic

matters and liaise with inspectors or accrediting
bodies

•  Ensure compliance with inspection standards and
regulatory frameworks and play a leading role in
the College’s inspection preparation

Responsibilities as a member of the Senior
Management Team (SMT)
•  Promote the vision and aims of the school

•  Provide professional leadership and management

to secure:

•  Improvements in achievement and attainment

for all students

•  Raised aspirations and standards of learning

and teaching

•  Effective strategic direction, leadership and

management at all levels

•  Effective use of resources

•  A safe and healthy environment for all
members of the College community

•  Meeting student and staff needs on a day-
to-day basis and assisting in complaints,
grievance and disciplinary procedures

•  The supervision and control of student
behaviour around school at all times

•  Supporting whole school events, including a
share of after-school, weekend and evening
commitments

•  Being a presence around school and a role

model to all

•  Being available during designated holiday

periods when academic work is required, such
as GCSE and A-level results days

Any other duties as reasonably required by the
Headmaster or Board of Governors. This job
description will be reviewed annually and may be
subject to amendment or modification at any time
after consultation with the post holder. It is not
a comprehensive statement of procedures and
tasks but sets out the main expectations of the
College in relation to the post holder’s professional
responsibilities and duties.

Person Specification

Candidates must empathise with, and be
committed to, independent education generally,
and to the personal best education provided by
Shiplake College.

Educational Attainment
•  Degree in any specialism

•  Qualified Teacher Status

Knowledge and Experience
•  Academic school leadership experience gained
as Director of Studies, Assistant Head or Head
of Department and a demonstrable record of
excellence

•  Ability to develop and implement policies to
deliver the strategic vision for the College

•  Ability to review and implement effective

programmes of study in line with examination
specification requirements

•  Good knowledge of current pedagogy

•  Ability to teach GCSE and A-level

•  Ability to teach Key Stage 3

Skills and Abilities
•  Ability to lead others effectively with intelligence,

wisdom and energy, and to work well as a
member of the SMT

•  Excellent interpersonal skills, with an even-

handed, sensitive approach, an understanding
of and empathy with the feelings and motives of
others, able to see things from the perspective
of others

•  Strong administrative, organisation, IT and

•  Excellent classroom practitioner who leads by

analytical skills

example

•  Ability to delegate to and empower staff

members

•  Experience of carrying out staff performance

reviews and acting on the results

•  A strong track record of managing colleagues
with the ability to manage change and work
under pressure in changing circumstances

•  A proven record of leading and promoting

innovative academic progress

•  Experience on National, Inspection or Exam

Board working parties or committees (desirable)

•  Excellent subject knowledge

•  Ability to motivate and inspire students and

colleagues

•  Good time management

•  Experience with using Windows and Office 365

•  Willingness to confront difficult issues and have

difficult conversations

•  A positive and solution-focused attitude to

working life

•  Ability to work at both a strategic and

operational level

•  Ability to present coherent arguments, willing to
challenge constructively and effectively, whilst
accepting and acting on collective decisions

•  A track record of successful delivery of a

curriculum area and extensive experience of
staff management

•  Experience of whole school management and

•  Excellent written and spoken communication

Timetabling processes

skills

•  Familiarity with School MIS systems and

•  Personal integrity, honesty, energy, stamina,

academic tracking including sufficient numeracy
to interpret statistical data, and manage budgets

•  A clear understanding of recent developments in
academic, safeguarding and pastoral provision in
schools

•  Delegation skills and the ability to manage a

range of tasks and priorities whilst working to
tight deadlines

•  Able to see through complex strategies from

concept to conclusion

Personal Qualities and Interests
•  A passionate commitment to the academic

achievement of young people of all abilities and
interests including those who require specialist
support

•  Motivation and interest in further personal

development

•  Excellent interpersonal skills including the ability
to relate well to people on all levels, to resolve
conflicts in a sensitive manner, to encourage and
motivate

•  Initiative and imagination, with the vision and

ability to inspire others

•  Good judgement with a fair and calm approach

alongside the ability to take tough decisions and
communicate them effectively

•  Committed team player with a collegiate and

collaborative approach

•  Commitment to equality, diversity and inclusion

enthusiasm

•  Excellent administrative and organisational

abilities

•  A willingness to give generously of their time to

support School events and activities

•  Knowledge of Independent Schools Inspection

framework (desirable)

•  Ability to drive a minibus (desirable)

•  First aid qualification (desirable)

Child Protection and
Safeguarding
Shiplake College is committed to safeguarding
and promoting the welfare of children and young
people and expects all staff and volunteers to
share this commitment. Applicants will be required
to undergo child protection screening appropriate
to the post, including checks with past employers
and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
Shiplake College is also committed to equality
of opportunity for all staff and applications from
individuals are encouraged from suitably qualified
candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, gender
reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and
maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage
and civil partnerships. There is no typical Shiplake
member of staff, we live our core values of
individual, inclusive and inspirational and value the
contribution that each member of our community
makes to life at the College.

Staff Benefits at a Glance
A competitive salary will be offered commensurate with the role and the experience of the successful
candidate. Full details and terms and conditions will be outlined in a contract issued with an offer of
employment.

PARKING

Free onsite car parking is available.
A valid school parking permit must
be displayed. Bike storage is also
available (and shower/changing
facilities provided).

SUBSIDISED
ACCOMMODATION

Subsidised accommodation may
be available onsite subject to
availability.

DOG FRIENDLY

The ‘Dogs of Shiplake’ form an
important part of our community
and some staff bring dogs to work
(please see Dogs and Pets Policy).

PENSION SCHEMES

Teachers are offered the opportunity
to join the Teachers Pension Scheme
(TPS).

CATERING

Complimentary lunches during
term time (and supper if a school
commitment or duty). Snacks
at break time and hot drinks
throughout the day.

TECHNOLOGY

All teaching staff and eligible
support staff are loaned a school
device (Microsoft Surface) to enable
flexibility in achieving their roles.

OUTDOOR POOL

Free access to the outdoor swimming
pool for staff and their families, at
agreed times when the pool is open
during the summer months.

SPORTS CENTRE

Free access to the onsite weights
rooms and fitness suites for staff
(and partners living onsite).

DEVELOPMENT AND
TRAINING

Continuing Professional Development
(CPD) is nurtured and encouraged.
In addition to the INSET programme,
individual requests are supported.

FLU VACCINATION

The College covers the cost of
the annual flu vaccination for
colleagues not eligible for a free NHS
vaccination.

COMMON ROOM

The Shiplake staff form a vibrant
common room with regular social
and sporting events.

DISCOUNTS

Generous reduction in Shiplake fees
for children of employees (pro rata
for part-time). Staff also eligible for
up to 50% discount on school holiday
camps (subject to availability).

The School Day7.00am8.00am8.20am8.40am3.30pm4.45pm5.00pm6.15pm7.00pmBoarders’ BreakfastBuses Arrive/RegistrationAssembly/Chapel/TutorLessons BeginGames/Co-Curricular ActivitiesPrep/Academic ClinicsSupperBuses Depart (5.00pm Fridays)Boarders Activities Programme13 daily bus routes1 weekly West London route2:1 applications for each place10% discount for most scholarshipsCreative Arts 238(40%) pupils receive tuition in at least one instrument 17 different instruments taught 7 drama productions and showcases a year 52pupils involved in whole school musical 2025 10 ensembles and choirs 3whole school art and photography competitions and 1 golden easel 37pupils taking LAMDA lessonsMicrosoft Surfaceunified device policyAll mobile phones handedin at the start of each dayUp to 30 staff dogson site each dayDestinations and Careers 96% secured places at first or second choice universityTop UK destinations 2025: UEA,Exeter, Brookes, Manchester Met, Cardiff, Reading, YorkTop degree subjects 2025:Business, Politics, Marketing, Engineering, Criminology, Sport 55% progressed to top third UK universities 35% progressed to  Russell Group universitiesSport and Co-Curricular 50+ sports and co-curricular activities availableActive Outdoor Education Programme and CCF (Army, Royal Navy and Air Force) 92 pupils completing Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardAcademic, Art, Drama, Musicand Sport Scholarships availableMeans-Tested Bursaries availableFees include snacks at break,lunch and dinnerUSA university destinations 2025: Princeton, Washington, Iowa, Wisconsin, Boston52 pupils are children of Old Vikings (former pupils) and staffTeaching and Learning 27 subject options at Sixth Form 5 options for additional Year 12 qualification with UCAS pointsExam Results 95% of GCSE results were 9-4 grades (2025) 82% of Sixth Form results were A*-C (or equivalent)INCLUSIVE • INDIVIDUAL • INSPIRATIONAL 9 average tutor group size 16 average class size 1 bespoke Key Stage 3 curriculum 21 subjects offered at GCSESuccess in rowing for girls and boys at Schools’ Head, NSR, HRR, and at international levelHeadline Figures 580school roll (2025-26)girls across the co-ed year groups 1:7teacher:pupil ratio 33% flexi, weekly, full boarding in Years 9-13 41% 87 pupils completing Gold and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardFees 2025-2026Registration Fee£180 inc. VAT (non-refundable)Acceptance Deposit£1,750 (UK and EU), with £500 credited to the second term’s bill.Lower School (Years 7 and 8)£8,875 per term inc. VATYears 9-13Day£11,250 per term inc. VATFlexi-Boarding (up to 2 nights a week)£13,775 per term inc. VATWeekly Boarding (up to 6 nights a week)£15,750 per term inc. VATFull Boarding£17,500 per term inc. VATApplications

To Apply
•  Please go to www.shiplake.org.uk/vacancies and download the

Teaching Staff Application Form

•  Email the completed form, along with a covering letter addressed
to the Headmaster, Mr Tyrone Howe, to jobs@shiplake.org.uk

The deadline for applications for Deputy Head Academic is
10.00am on Thursday 27 November 2025.

Longlist interviews will be held at the College on Tuesday 2
December 2025.

Shortlisted candidates tour of the College will take place on Friday 5
December 2025.

Final panel interviews will be held on Tuesday 9 December 2025.

Application Process
•  All applications will be acknowledged by email

•  Please read all of the information provided before completing your

application

•  Within the application form there is the opportunity to demonstrate,
using examples, your suitability for the role and the qualities you
would bring to Shiplake College. This is where you can bring your
application form to life. Please do not send testimonials, certificates
or examples of work etc., unless specifically requested to during
the recruitment process

References
All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of a minimum
of two references which are satisfactory to the College. One of the
references must be from your current or most recent employer. If
your current/most recent employment does/did not involve working
with children, then the second referee should be from the employer
with whom you most recently worked with children. If you are or have
been employed within a school, then one reference must be from the
Head of your current school, or the last school at which you worked.
In all circumstances the information given should be for the Head
or HR Department. Neither referee should be a relative or someone
known to you solely as a friend.

Shortlisted applicants are advised that references will be taken up
prior to interview unless you ask us not to. We will assume it is
acceptable to contact your references at any time unless advised
otherwise using the appropriate section on the application form.
Please ensure that any referees who you are happy for us to contact
before interview are aware that they may be asked to provide a
reference with a relatively short deadline.

Online Searches
In line with the updated KCSIE 2025, we will carry out an online
search for all shortlisted candidates. Any relevant incidents or issues
involving candidates that are publicly available online (including
information contained in social media accounts) and identified during
the search may be explored at interview. The purpose of carrying
out online checks is to comply with the KCSIE recommendation that
Schools review information to assist any decision as to the candidate’s
suitability to work with children and young people. Shiplake College is
an Equal Opportunities Employer and seeks at all times to ensure that
its processes do not unlawfully discriminate against any prospective
employee.

Interview Process
If you are shortlisted and invited for interview we
will ask you to bring in evidence of the following:
•  Identity – passport or photocard driving licence

•  Address – document from Group 2b of the DBS
List of Valid Identity Documents with current
address

•  Proof of right to work in the UK – passport or UK
birth certificate and proof of National Insurance
Number issued by a government agency or a
previous employer

•  Qualifications - original documents confirming
any educational and professional qualifications
you refer to in your application

•  If you have changed your name by deed poll or
any other mechanism (e.g. marriage, adoption,
statutory declaration) you will be asked to
provide documentary evidence of the change

During your visit if you have not done so already,
you will be required to sign your application form
in order to declare that the information you have
given is accurate and true.

In the event that you are unsuccessful please be
assured that certified photocopies of documents
taken will be destroyed.

demonstration of practical skill, a presentation etc.

All adults working at Shiplake College should be
aware of their responsibility to safeguard and
promote the welfare of every pupil, both physical
and emotional, inside and outside school. This
involves ensuring that pupils are protected from
significant physical or emotional harm and that
there is a positive commitment to ensure the
satisfactory development and growth of the
individual. Everyone working at Shiplake College
should be aware of and, when necessary, follow
the school’s Safeguarding Guidelines, which are in
line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025,
Prevent 2015, Working Together 2018 and the
Department of Education’s (DfE) and Oxfordshire
Safeguarding Children Board’s (OSCB) practice
and procedures (these are available online at
www.oscb.org.uk and also refer to http://schools.
oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/safeguarding).

Warning
You should be aware that it is an offence to apply
for the role if you are barred from engaging in
regulated activity relevant to children. Provision
of false information is also an offence and could
result in the application being rejected or summary
dismissal if you have been selected, and possible
referral to the police and/or DBS, and/or the
Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA).

Interviews are conducted in person and will explore
your suitability for the role and to work with
children. On occasion, applicants will be invited to
participate in a preliminary online video interview.

Queries
If you have any queries at all about the recruitment
process please contact the HR Department on
01189 704 848 or jobs@shiplake.org.uk.

As well as a face-to-face interview, if relevant to
the role, the selection process may include some
other form of assessment e.g. administrative test,

Teacher of English
(maternity cover up to one year)
Candidate Information Pack
Starting September 2026

Welcome from the Headmaster

Dear Applicant,

The word I hear mentioned most regularly when
speaking to the pupils, parents, and staff of
Shiplake College is ‘community’. So, thank you for
taking the time to consider the role of Teacher
of English (Maternity Cover), as it represents
a wonderful opportunity to join our very special
Shiplake community.

Shiplake College is an HMC co-educational boarding
and day school offering a holistic education for
around 580 pupils from Year 7 to Sixth Form.
There has been a co-educational Sixth Form since
1998 and since September 2023 girls have been
welcomed into Year 7, as we continue our journey
to become a fully co-educational place of learning.
We are nestled in leafy South Oxfordshire, five
minutes from Henley, and sit right on the River
Thames. It is a beautiful place to work.

As well as providing a fantastic learning and living
environment for young people, Shiplake offers
an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding working
environment.

We strive to recruit the best possible teaching and
support staff to drive the College forwards and
ensure we continue to provide the best possible
rounded education for our pupils.

Above all, Shiplake is a school where we try
to live out authentically our three core values
– the Three Is – Inclusive, Individual, and
Inspirational.

‘Inclusive’ is our cornerstone with our strong sense
of community in which everyone has value and
where the prevailing culture is one of kindness.

‘Individual’ represents our all-ability school in
which we not only recognise but also celebrate that
everyone is different - thank goodness for that!
This is a personal best school.

And finally, ‘Inspirational’ - the pre-requisite at
Shiplake is that everyone – students and staff alike
- turn up each day with a smile, a positive attitude,
and a willingness to engage with all aspects of
school life.

Shiplake College is a school where academic rigour
is non-negotiable, but character development
is just as important. We strive to help students
develop broad interests across a wide range of
co-curricular areas, bolster self-esteem, and give a
sense of our place in the wider world with the aim
to make a positive difference to society.

Embracing the lifestyle at a busy and vibrant
boarding school is paramount for anyone wishing to
work at Shiplake. Knowing our pupils well enables
us to ensure that they get the best from their
education here, and this is a pivotal part of any role
at the College. This is a great opportunity for the
right candidate and ‘fit’ is very important to us.

Thank you for your interest in working at Shiplake
College and, as we look to an exciting future, I
hope that you will consider being part of that story.

Tyrone Howe

The College
Shiplake College is a thriving and relatively young HMC school. In
September 2025 we welcomed 580 boarding and day pupils aged 11-
18 (up from 536 the previous term). There has been a co-educational
Sixth Form since 1998 and since September 2023 girls have joined in
Year 7 (now making up 40% of all co-educational year groups) as the
College goes fully co-educational.

Overlooking the River Thames, two miles upstream of the famous
Henley Royal Regatta stretch, pupils enjoy a beautiful and inspiring
63-acre rural site. The College is conveniently located near major air,
railway and motorway networks, close to Reading, London and Oxford
and just 40 minutes from Heathrow.

Full, weekly, part- and flexi-boarding is available from Year 9 (from
Year 7 in 2027), with ad hoc ‘overnight stays’ also an option for day
pupils.

Every pupil is placed at the heart of Shiplake life and the College’s
ethos is underpinned by the Three Is – Inclusive, Individual and
Inspirational.

Shiplake provides a friendly, supportive and structured environment to
bring out the best in each and every pupil. Renowned for outstanding
pastoral care and personal development, the College welcomes pupils
with wide-ranging skills and talents, who will make the most of the
many opportunities offered to them.

The College provides an education that is tailored to the individual,
achieved through engaging and inspirational teaching, delivered in
small classes where the teachers can know and understand each
pupil’s method of learning.

The College continues to see year-on-year improvements in
examination results. In August 2025, Shiplake leavers achieved
excellent public examination grades, with the best ever GCSE results
setting a new academic benchmark for the College. At GCSE, pupils
achieved 38% of 9-7 grades and 64% grades 9-6, an increase from
34% and 58% respectively in 2024. Overall, 93% of GCSE grades were
marked 9-4 (93% in 2024). At Sixth Form, the percentage of A*-C
grades was 82%, and 59% at A*-B.

In addition to a strong academic foundation, the College offers
excellent sporting, artistic and co-curricular opportunities. Two
afternoons are reserved for an array of clubs and activities, including a
comprehensive outdoor education programme, with pupils encouraged
to extend their horizons and experience new challenges and
responsibilities.

Academic lessons take place Monday to Friday and each day ends
with an hour of academic support during which pupils undertake
independent study or seek help with homework from teachers. Sports
training takes place on three days a week, with the majority of fixtures
scheduled for Saturday mornings.

130 weekly and full boarders become fully integrated into Shiplake’s
inclusive and welcoming environment. International pupils join us from
all over the world, currently from 17 different countries, and represent
approximately 4% of the school population. Full boarders take part
in a vibrant weekend programme of trips and activities on Saturday
afternoons and Sundays, with day pupils and weekly boarders able to
enjoy additional family and down time at home.

School Development
The stunning grounds are a remarkable
combination of old and new; of the traditional and
the up-to-date. Although only founded in 1959,
Shiplake occupies a site which includes an original
late-nineteenth century mansion, still dominating
the main school buildings.

The school is equipped with modern amenities,
including a contemporary Thinking Space, multi-
purpose Lecture Theatre, a multi-activity centre
with climbing wall, fitness suite and indoor archery/
rifle range, and Marjorie’s, a café where Sixth Form
students can socialise and work independently.

1959: College Founded
1990: Goodwin Building (Classrooms)
1998: Sixth Form Became Co-educational
2002: College House (Year 13 Boys)
2008: First Year 7 (Lower School) Joined
2009: Gilson (Girls) House
2014: John Turner Building
2020: Davies Centre and Marjorie White Building
2023: First Year 7 Girls Joined
2024: Bevan (Science) and Jubilee Classrooms
2024: Phillimore Fields
2025: Paddocks Artificial Pitches
2025: Sixth Form Centre
2026: Wellness Centre (In Progress)

Further investment and development will help to
ensure that the College’s future is even brighter
than its past.

Governance
Shiplake College is a charitable company and is
privileged to be supported by a highly experienced,
knowledgeable and diverse board of governors.
This helps to shape future strategies and inform
key decisions to ensure the College continues to
maintain the highest possible standards.

Inspection
Shiplake was visited by ISI in September 2025. The
inspection went extremely well and we met all the
regulatory standards. Shiplake was also awarded a
‘significant strength’, which reflects that “pupils
who participate in sports, such as rowing, are given
guidance in balancing their academic, sporting
and wider commitments in a way which effectively
promotes their wellbeing.”

Admissions
Entry points are normally at Year 7 (11+), Year 9
(13+) and Year 12 (16+). Prospective families are
encouraged to arrange an individual visit or attend
an open morning. Academic, Art, Music, Drama and
Sport Scholarships, and means-tested bursaries,
are available.

The College embraces pupils from a wide range
of ethnic and cultural backgrounds as well as
diverse intellectual and physical talents. As a
Church of England school, pupils at Shiplake are
gently encouraged to lead an active spiritual life
throughout their time at the College.

Community
There are strong links with the local community
and pupils are given every opportunity to get
involved in local events and to offer service
wherever appropriate.

Fundraising for charities takes place year on year.

The Shiplake Connected platform helps maintain
and develop the links between the College, parents,
alumni (known as Old Vikings) and former staff.

Job Description
The Headmaster is seeking to appoint a dynamic
and enthusiastic a maternity cover Teacher of
English. The role would start in September 2026
and be available for up to one year.

This is a superb opportunity for a suitably qualified
practitioner to join an innovative and successful
department. The role would suit an energetic
teacher committed to the highest standards of
teaching and learning; a teacher who can inspire
and challenge all our pupils.

Applications are welcomed from teachers who will
strive for excellence in all aspects of their practice,
from both experienced practitioners and early
career teachers. Applicants should also be able
to instil a passion for their subject and create a
rigorous environment for our pupils’ learning to
thrive.

Essential Requirements

•  A degree in English (or a closely related field)

•  Excellent subject knowledge of the GCSE and

Sixth Form English specifications

•  Excellent communication skills with pupils,

parents and staff

•  Prepared to attend internal and external training

days

•  Ability to review and implement effective

programmes of study in line with the syllabi and
examination specification requirements

•  Keep abreast of relevant curricular and

educational developments

•  Contribute to the development of teaching and

learning materials across the College

•  Enthusiastic and able to motivate and inspire

pupils

•  Ensure continuity, progression and cohesiveness

in all teaching

•  Use a variety of methods and approaches

which differentiate and stimulate, which match
curricular objectives and the range of pupil
needs, and ensure equal opportunity for all pupils

•  Set and mark prep regularly (in accordance with
the College’s Assessment and Feedback Policy),
to consolidate and extend learning and to
encourage pupils to take responsibility for their
own learning

•  Work with the Learning Development staff to
identify and support any pupils with specific
learning needs

•  Work effectively and collaboratively as a member
of the English department to improve the quality
of teaching and learning

•  Set high expectations for all pupils, to deepen
their knowledge and understanding and to
maximise their achievement

•  Work in an enthusiastic manner, sharing new

ideas and suggestions

•  Positively manage behaviour in an environment
of mutual respect that allows pupils to feel safe
and secure and promotes their learning

•  Planning and accompanying trips

•  Attend special school events as reasonably

directed by the Headmaster, including whole
College and House assemblies

Monitoring, Assessment, Recording, Reporting and
Accountability
•  Responsible for monitoring pupil progress

•  Assessing pupils’ work frequently in line with departmental and
school policies and use the results to inform future planning,
teaching and curricular development

•  Be familiar with school assessment and reporting procedures and

to prepare and present informative, helpful and accurate reports to
parents

•  Monitor unexplained absences or patterns of absence; which should

be reported immediately to the academic tutor or House staff

Subject Knowledge and Understanding
•  Essential to keep up-to-date with research and developments in

pedagogy and English in particular

•  Professional Standards and Development

•  Be a role model to pupils through personal presentation, dress and

professional conduct

•  Arrive in class, on or before the start of the lesson, and to begin

and end lessons on time

•  Cover for absent colleagues and assist with examination invigilation

as requested

•  Cooperate with the employer in all matters concerning health and
safety and specifically to take reasonable care of their own health
and safety, and that of any other persons who may be affected by
their acts or omissions at work

•  Be familiar with the College and English department handbooks

and support all the College’s policies

•  Establish effective working relationships with professional

colleagues and support staff

•  Strive for personal and professional development through active
involvement in the school’s appraisal system and performance
management procedures

•  Liaise effectively with parents and with other agencies who have

responsibility for pupils’ education and welfare

•  Be familiar with and implement the relevant requirements of the

current SEN Code of Practice

•  Consider the needs of all pupils within lessons (and to implement
specialist advice) especially those who: have SEN; are gifted and
talented; are not yet fluent in English

Any other duties as reasonably required by your Head of Department
or member of the Senior Management Team. Every subject teacher will
be expected to undertake tutorial responsibilities. This job description
will be reviewed annually and may be subject to amendment or
modification at any time after consultation with the post holder. It is
not a comprehensive statement of procedures and tasks but sets out
the main expectations of the School in relation to the post holder’s
professional responsibilities and duties.

Person Specification
Candidates must empathise with, and be committed to, independent
education generally, and to the personal best education provided by
Shiplake College.

Educational Attainment
•  Degree in English (or a closely related field)

Knowledge and Experience

•  Ability to motivate and inspire pupils and colleagues

•  Ability to review and implement effective programmes of study in

line with examination specification requirements

•  Good knowledge of current pedagogy

•  Ability to teach English GCSE and at A-level

•  Ability to teach English at Key Stage 3

Skills and Abilities

•  Highly effective communicator

•  Good ICT skills

•  Ability and enthusiasm for using technology in the classroom

•  Good time management

•  Experience with using Windows and Office 365 (desirable)

Personal Qualities and Interests
•  Passion for teaching and learning

•  A love of English

•  Motivation and interest in further personal development

•  Organised

•  Enthusiastic

•  Commitment to become involved with varied co-curricular programme

•  Reliable

•  Self-reliant and self-motivated

•  Empathy

•  Ability to drive a minibus (desirable)

•  First aid qualification

Child Protection and Safeguarding
Shiplake College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the
welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and
volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to
undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including
checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service
(DBS). Shiplake College is also committed to equality of opportunity
for all staff and applications from individuals are encouraged from
suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, sex,
gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity,
race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships. There
is no typical Shiplake member of staff, we live our core values of
individual, inclusive and inspirational and value the contribution that
each member of our community makes to life at the College.

Staff Benefits at a Glance
A competitive salary will be offered commensurate with the role and the experience of the successful
candidate. Full details and terms and conditions will be outlined in a contract issued with an offer of
employment.

PARKING

Free onsite car parking is available.
A valid school parking permit must
be displayed. Bike storage is also
available (and shower/changing
facilities provided).

SUBSIDISED
ACCOMMODATION

Subsidised accommodation may
be available onsite subject to
availability.

DOG FRIENDLY

The ‘Dogs of Shiplake’ form an
important part of our community
and some staff bring dogs to work
(please see Dogs and Pets Policy).

PENSION SCHEMES

Teachers are offered the opportunity
to join the Aviva APTIS pension
Scheme.

CATERING

Complimentary lunches during
term time (and supper if a school
commitment or duty). Snacks
at break time and hot drinks
throughout the day.

TECHNOLOGY

All teaching staff and eligible
support staff are loaned a school
device (Microsoft Surface) to enable
flexibility in achieving their roles.

OUTDOOR POOL

Free access to the outdoor swimming
pool for staff and their families, at
agreed times when the pool is open
during the summer months.

SPORTS CENTRE

Free access to the onsite weights
rooms and fitness suites for staff
(and partners living onsite).

DEVELOPMENT AND
TRAINING

Continuing Professional Development
(CPD) is nurtured and encouraged.
In addition to the INSET programme,
individual requests are supported.

FLU VACCINATION

The College covers the cost of
the annual flu vaccination for
colleagues not eligible for a free NHS
vaccination.

COMMON ROOM

The Shiplake staff form a vibrant
common room with regular social
and sporting events.

DISCOUNTS

This enables employees to purchase
a bike and accessories through
tax-free salary sacrifice, saving on
income tax and National Insurance.

Applications

To Apply
•  Please go to www.shiplake.org.uk/vacancies and download the

Teaching Staff Application Form

•  Email the completed form, along with a covering letter addressed to

the Headmaster, Mr Tyrone Howe, to jobs@shiplake.org.uk

Closing date is 10.00am on Thursday 19 February 2026.

Interviews to be held the week commencing 23 February 2026.

We reserve the right to interview early applicants.

Application Process
•  Please read all of the information provided before completing your

application

•  Within the application form there is the opportunity to demonstrate,
using examples, your suitability for the role and the qualities you
would bring to Shiplake College. This is where you can bring your
application form to life. Please do not send testimonials, certificates
or examples of work etc., unless specifically requested to during the
recruitment process

References
All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of a minimum
of two references which are satisfactory to the College. One of the
references must be from your current or most recent employer. If your
current/most recent employment does/did not involve working with
children, then the second referee should be from the employer with
whom you most recently worked with children. If you are or have been
employed within a school, then one reference must be from the Head
of your current school, or the last school at which you worked. In all
circumstances the information given should be for the Head or HR
Department. Neither referee should be a relative or someone known to
you solely as a friend.

Shortlisted applicants are advised that references will be taken up prior
to interview unless you ask us not to. We will assume it is acceptable
to contact your references at any time unless advised otherwise using
the appropriate section on the application form. Please ensure that
any referees who you are happy for us to contact before interview are
aware that they may be asked to provide a reference with a relatively
short deadline.

Online Searches
In line with the updated KCSIE 2025, we will carry out an online
search for all shortlisted candidates. Any relevant incidents or issues
involving candidates that are publicly available online (including
information contained in social media accounts) and identified during
the search may be explored at interview. The purpose of carrying
out online checks is to comply with the KCSIE recommendation that
Schools review information to assist any decision as to the candidate’s
suitability to work with children and young people. Shiplake College is
an Equal Opportunities Employer and seeks at all times to ensure that
its processes do not unlawfully discriminate against any prospective
employee.

Interview Process
If you are shortlisted and invited for interview we
will ask you to bring in evidence of the following:
•  Identity – passport or photocard driving licence

•  Address – document from Group 2b of the DBS
List of Valid Identity Documents with current
address

•  Proof of right to work in the UK – passport or UK
birth certificate and proof of National Insurance
Number issued by a government agency or a
previous employer

•  Qualifications - original documents confirming
any educational and professional qualifications
you refer to in your application

•  If you have changed your name by deed poll or
any other mechanism (e.g. marriage, adoption,
statutory declaration) you will be asked to
provide documentary evidence of the change

During your visit if you have not done so already,
you will be required to sign your application form
in order to declare that the information you have
given is accurate and true.

In the event that you are unsuccessful please be
assured that certified photocopies of documents
taken will be destroyed.

All adults working at Shiplake College should be
aware of their responsibility to safeguard and
promote the welfare of every pupil, both physical
and emotional, inside and outside school. This
involves ensuring that pupils are protected from
significant physical or emotional harm and that
there is a positive commitment to ensure the
satisfactory development and growth of the
individual. Everyone working at Shiplake College
should be aware of and, when necessary, follow
the school’s Safeguarding Guidelines, which are in
line with Keeping Children Safe in Education 2025,
Prevent 2015, Working Together 2018 and the
Department of Education’s (DfE) and Oxfordshire
Safeguarding Children Board’s (OSCB) practice
and procedures (these are available online at
www.oscb.org.uk and also refer to http://schools.
oxfordshire.gov.uk/cms/content/safeguarding).

Warning
You should be aware that it is an offence to apply
for the role if you are barred from engaging in
regulated activity relevant to children. Provision
of false information is also an offence and could
result in the application being rejected or summary
dismissal if you have been selected, and possible
referral to the police and/or DBS, and/or the
Teaching Regulation Agency (TRA).

Interviews are conducted in person and will explore
your suitability for the role and to work with
children. On occasion, applicants will be invited to
participate in a preliminary online video interview.

Queries
If you have any queries at all about the recruitment
process please contact the HR Department on
01189 704 848 or jobs@shiplake.org.uk.

As well as a face-to-face interview, if relevant to
the role, the selection process may include some
other form of assessment e.g. administrative test,
demonstration of practical skill, a presentation etc.

The School Day7.00am8.00am8.20am8.40am3.30pm4.45pm5.00pm6.15pm7.00pmBoarders’ BreakfastBuses Arrive/RegistrationAssembly/Chapel/TutorLessons BeginGames/Co-Curricular ActivitiesPrep/Academic ClinicsSupperBuses Depart (5.00pm Fridays)Boarders Activities Programme13 daily bus routes1 weekly West London route2:1 applications for each place10% discount for most scholarshipsCreative Arts 238(40%) pupils receive tuition in at least one instrument 17 different instruments taught 7 drama productions and showcases a year 52pupils involved in whole school musical 2025 10 ensembles and choirs 3whole school art and photography competitions and 1 golden easel 37pupils taking LAMDA lessonsMicrosoft Surfaceunified device policyAll mobile phones handedin at the start of each dayUp to 30 staff dogson site each dayDestinations and Careers 96% secured places at first or second choice universityTop UK destinations 2025: UEA,Exeter, Brookes, Manchester Met, Cardiff, Reading, YorkTop degree subjects 2025:Business, Politics, Marketing, Engineering, Criminology, Sport 55% progressed to top third UK universities 35% progressed to  Russell Group universitiesSport and Co-Curricular 50+ sports and co-curricular activities availableActive Outdoor Education Programme and CCF (Army, Royal Navy and Air Force) 92 pupils completing Bronze Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardAcademic, Art, Drama, Musicand Sport Scholarships availableMeans-Tested Bursaries availableFees include snacks at break,lunch and dinnerUSA university destinations 2025: Princeton, Washington, Iowa, Wisconsin, Boston52 pupils are children of Old Vikings (former pupils) and staffTeaching and Learning 27 subject options at Sixth Form 5 options for additional Year 12 qualification with UCAS pointsExam Results 95% of GCSE results were 9-4 grades (2025) 82% of Sixth Form results were A*-C (or equivalent)INCLUSIVE • INDIVIDUAL • INSPIRATIONAL 9 average tutor group size 16 average class size 1 bespoke Key Stage 3 curriculum 21 subjects offered at GCSESuccess in rowing for girls and boys at Schools’ Head, NSR, HRR, and at international levelHeadline Figures 580school roll (2025-26)girls across the co-ed year groups 1:7teacher:pupil ratio 33% flexi, weekly, full boarding in Years 9-13 41% 87 pupils completing Gold and Silver Duke of Edinburgh’s AwardFees 2025-2026Registration Fee£180 inc. VAT (non-refundable)Acceptance Deposit£1,750 (UK and EU), with £500 credited to the second term’s bill.Lower School (Years 7 and 8)£8,875 per term inc. VATYears 9-13Day£11,250 per term inc. VATFlexi-Boarding (up to 2 nights a week)£13,775 per term inc. VATWeekly Boarding (up to 6 nights a week)£15,750 per term inc. VATFull Boarding£17,500 per term inc. VAT