Visionary Head of Computer Science
The Downs School is seeking a dynamic, enthusiastic Head of Computer Science to lead our thriving department. You’ll join a dedicated team in our successful secondary school, set in a beautiful rural location, serving a diverse cohort of over 1400 pupils.
We have invested significantly in cutting-edge technology to support outstanding teaching and learning. Our high-performance network infrastructure serves over 500 desktop PCs, with comprehensive wireless coverage accessible to all staff and students across the school.You'll have the resources and technology you need to deliver engaging, contemporary Computer Science education.
The ideal candidate will be an experienced Computer Science teacher with a passion for innovative and inclusive education, someone with a proven ability to lead, motivate, and support staff and students and demonstrate an unwavering commitment to excellence in teaching, learning, and safeguarding.
About the Role: As a successful candidate, you will:
- Motivate and Inspire: Bring your enthusiasm for Computer Science into the classroom, igniting curiosity and a love for learning.
- Deliver Expertise: Showcase strong subject knowledge teaching your discipline with confidence and clarity up to and including Key Stage 5.
- Collaborate: Contribute to the success of our faculty by working closely with a dedicated team of teachers.
- Build Relationships: Create positive and trusting connections with students while making learning exciting and challenging.
- Embrace Innovation: Be open to creative and innovative teaching methods.
- Adaptability: Thrive in a dynamic environment, handling challenges with flexibility.
What we offer: In return, you’ll enjoy:
- Caring Environment: Our positive ethos prioritises staff well-being and recognition.
- Empowerment: Work alongside ambitious, dedicated colleagues who are committed to developing the whole child.
- Exceptional Students: Engage with children who love being at school, exhibit exceptional behaviour and have a strong attitude towards their learning.
- Professional Environment: Join a stimulating and collaborative workplace in a school Ofsted labelled as ‘exceptional’ in October 2024
- Professional Growth: Access extraordinary professional development and support to enhance your teaching skills.
- Flexible Work Options: We value work balance through the availability of flexible working, our ‘Time for you Tuesdays’, commuted INSETs and Employee Assistance Programme.
About Us
The Downs School and Sixth Form is a successful, oversubscribed, and highly regarded secondary school located in the beautiful Downs area of West Berkshire. Praised in our recent Ofsted for the exceptional behaviour of our students, we are ranked in the top 5% of schools nationally for Progress 8, reflecting our commitment to high-quality teaching, learning, and student outcomes.
The Downland Federation (namely The Downs School & Sixth Form, Compton CofE Primary School and Basildon CofE Primary School) is preparing to become a Multi Academy Trust, called Summit Education Trust from April 2026.
Application Details
We encourage early applications, as we reserve the right to close this vacancy if sufficient applications are received. To apply, please apply via TES. For more information, please visit The Downs School website or contact Sarah Townsend, HR Manager or recruitment@thedownsschool.org. We welcome pre-arranged visits to the school.
Closing date: 19 May, 8am
The Downs School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Successful applicants will be subject to social media checks, an Enhanced Disclosure Check through the DBS and provide evidence that they have a right to work in the UK.