Teacher of Classics – September 2025

• In the Lower School (Years 7 and 8) all pupils study Latin for one 50 minute period a week, following the Suburani text book.
• From M4 (Year 9) the study of Latin becomes optional with two classes of pupils (a mix of those who have come through the Lower School and those entering M4 as new pupils) usually selecting to continue with two periods a week. Alternatively, pupils can select to pursue the advanced course for one lesson a week. Pupils follow ‘Latin to GCSE’ Book One in M4 in preparation for the GCSE course. There is also the option from M4 to study Classical Civilisation which a large number of pupils enjoy studying; there are usually four classes.
• All pupils have to study a Modern Language or Classical Subject at GCSE and most pupils who study Latin in M4 continue with the subject for GCSE, following the Eduqas course. Classical Civilisation (OCR board) is also offered at GCSE and is a popular option.
• Latin is also offered at A-Level; students follow the OCR course and numbers are gradually increasing. Classical Civilisation A-Level will be a new addition to the curriculum from September and we are very much looking forward to taking our first classes through the OCR course.
• Classical Greek is run as an activity once a week for those students interested in pursuing this as an additional subject.
• Additionally, the department runs a variety of extra-curricular activities, for example Classics society, and regularly organises trips and speakers.

Distinctive Characteristics of the Department

• There is a range of subject specialisms in the department.
• The department offers a broad range of co-curricular activities – Classical Greek, Classics Society, outside speakers, trips both within the UK and abroad.
• The teaching team is committed to exploring new ways of delivering the subject material and challenging our students to be innovative.
• Smaller A Level class sizes allow for a tutorial style of teaching and time for far reaching discussions.

The successful applicant for this post will be expected to:

• Teach a standard timetable allocation (full time commitment currently 21 lessons of 50 minutes over a six-day timetable);
• Contribute to the successful teaching of the subject in years 7 to 13, adapting and reassessing lesson plans to meet specific student needs, liaising with the Academic Support Department as necessary;
• Be responsible for the processes of assessment, recording and reporting for the pupils in their charge;
• Assess pupils’ work frequently in line with Departmental and school policy and use the results to inform future planning, teaching and curricular development;
• Be familiar with school assessment and reporting procedures and prepare and present informative, helpful and accurate reports to parents both in writing and at parent consultation evenings;
• Enhance the quality of teaching and learning in the Department and wider College through sharing resources and good practice, lesson observation, collaborative teaching, mentoring and active participation in continuing professional development;
• Consolidate and extend learning, encouraging pupils to take responsibility for their own learning;
• Set high expectations for all pupils to deepen their knowledge and understanding and to maximise their achievement;
• Use positive management of behaviour in an environment of mutual respect that allows pupils to feel safe and secure and promotes their self-esteem;
• Make a positive contribution to the efficient running of the Department, including setting and marking examinations, writing Schemes of Work, attending departmental meetings, and undertaking administrative and other tasks as delegated by the Head of Department;
• Play an active role in the co-curricular life of the Department, including contributing to support sessions, extension programmes, competitions, trips, open days, prep school events, and so on;
• Contribute to the school wide co-curricular programme as requested by the Assistant Head: Total Curriculum. This may include coaching sport at the appropriate level or delivering activity programmes over the six day working week;
• Work as a tutor in either the Lower School, or in a day or boarding house as requested by the Second Master;
• Adhere to, and promote, all College policies and procedures;
• Undertake any other reasonable task as directed by the Headmaster, Deputy Head Academic or Head of Department.
• The College reserves the right to vary or amend the duties and responsibilities of the post holder at any time according to the needs of the College’s business.
• Epsom College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

Essential

• Possess an excellent degree in Classics or related subject;
• Demonstrate the ability to teach KS3, GCSE & A-Level Latin and Classical Civilisation;
• Demonstrate an innovative and imaginative approach to teaching and learning, showing the capability to deliver inspirational and informative lessons to a variety of age ranges and abilities;
• Display a willingness to be involved in all aspects of departmental development, be a dedicated team-player who strives for excellence and leads by example;
• Be able to demonstrate a positive and authoritative rapport with all pupils, showing excellent and effective classroom management skills;
• Show excellent communication skills to enable effective dialogue with pupils, parents, staff and visitors;
• Be organised and self-motivated, with a proven record for meeting targets and deadlines;
• Have a sharp and progressive vision of the subject and of teaching and learning in a successful and dynamic school;
• Display an ability to perform well and remain professional whilst under pressure, be tactful and discreet, whilst mindful of observing Safeguarding and professional standards;
• Be committed to boarding school life and willing to engage in a range of co-curricular activities;
• Demonstrate a strong commitment to personal continuous professional development;
• Display a smart and professional appearance, representing the College in a positive manner.

Desirable

• Provide evidence of an impressive track record of GCSE and A Level results;
• Be able to teach an additional curriculum subject.

In order to arrive at a decision, the selection panel may enhance any or all of the desirable criteria.

The College has its own salary scale, offers a generous fee remission for the sons and daughters of staff, private health care along with other extensive benefits and accommodation may be available.

The offer of the role would be made subject to receipt of references, proof of relevant qualifications, Teaching Regulation Agency and other relevant checks for teaching positions in the UK, obtaining a letter of professional standing from the professional regulating authority for teachers who have worked outside the UK where appropriate, a check of online search engines and websites of publicly available information that does not identify the candidate as potentially unsuitable to work within a school setting, sighting of birth certificate, Enhanced Disclosure and Barring check, an overseas check, if appropriate, and pre-placement medical assessment that are all satisfactory to Epsom College.  Proof of entitlement to work within the United Kingdom will be required. Prior to interview, an online search of internet search engines, websites and other publicly available and publicly accessible platforms to ascertain applicant’s suitability to work within a school environment will be undertaken on applicants that have been shortlisted.

All employees are required to ensure that all duties and responsibilities are discharged in accordance with the College’s Health and Safety Policy.  They should take reasonable care for their own Health and Safety and that of others who may be affected by what they do or do not do.  Staff should correctly use work items provided by the College, including personal protective equipment in accordance with training and instruction.

Anyone wishing to discuss these details further may contact Mrs Becky Brown, Deputy Head Academic rebecca.brown@epsomcollege.org.uk or Head of Classics, Mrs Jessica Green jessica.green@epsomcollege.org.uk

Candidates are asked to complete Application Form available from our website www.epsomcollege.org.uk or TES along with a letter of application and submit these as soon as possible.  Applications will be assessed in order of receipt and interviews and subsequent offer may occur at any stage after applications are received. We therefore invite interested candidates to apply as soon as possible.

Please contact Vikki Stroud, Recruitment and HR Manager, with any queries regarding the application process Vikki.Stroud@epsomcollege.org.uk

 Closing date 9am Monday 10 March 2025