[ref. l73720017] Teacher of English - Leatherhead
About the School - Downsend School
Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school, with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.
At Downsend, we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big, we celebrate innovation, and we never hold back.
We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.
The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Teacher of English to join our fantastic team.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 16 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 85,000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique, however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can, ‘Thrive in a rapidly evolving world’.
At Cognita, we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically, socially, and emotionally, wherever they are in the world, wherever they’re starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.
We protect what’s special about them, while offering them rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of over 100 schools in 16 countries, ensuring every child gets an education that’s, quite literally, world class.
It’s an individual approach that empowers every school, teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.
About the role
As a Teacher of English at Downsend School, you will teach across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5, inspiring pupils through a stimulating and varied curriculum. You will play a key role in fostering a love of literature and developing essential literacy skills, helping students to thrive academically and personally.Working closely with the Head of English, you will contribute to a collaborative department focused on engaging students with both classic and contemporary texts. As the school prepares to launch its Sixth Form in September 2025, you will be integral to shaping a vibrant academic culture, preparing students for GCSEs, A Levels, and beyond.
You will also support the wider school community through co-curricular activities, events, and cross-curricular collaboration in line with our Future Skills Vision.
This is a permanent, full-time role with a September 2025 start date.
To view a full job description, click here.
Who we are looking for:
You are an enthusiastic and committed English specialist with a strong academic background and a passion for teaching. With a proven track record of success, you bring high expectations, creativity, and the ability to motivate students of all abilities.You are a skilled communicator, a supportive colleague, and a positive presence in the classroom. You are also ready to contribute to the life of a forward-thinking school and help shape the next exciting chapter of Downsend’s journey.
Benefits at Cognita- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Teacher’s Pension
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third-party discounts
- Professional Development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date. The Closing Date for Applications is: 11th May 2025.
Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.