Summary

We are seeking an experienced and engaging Teacher of Politics who can offer History as a second subject. The successful candidate will teach a timetable focused on Key Stage 5 Politics, with some History teaching across Key Stages 3 and 4.

Detail

Teacher of Politics

Permanent, full-time

Starting September 2026

Do you believe in adding value to every single pupil? Do you want to work in a school where every pupil is challenged to achieve their personal best? Do our three core values of inclusive, individual and inspirational resonate with you?

If this sounds like you and you like sweet treats in the staff room, the idea of dogs around site and a calendar of staff socials then, please, read on.

Shiplake College is seeking an experienced and engaging Teacher of Politics who can also offer History as a second subject. The successful candidate will teach a timetable primarily focused on Key Stage 5 Politics (Edexcel A-Level specification), with some History teaching across Key Stages 3 and 4. This is an excellent opportunity for a well‑qualified and motivated teacher to join a supportive and successful department.

We are looking for an energetic educator with a passion for high-quality teaching and learning. Someone who can inspire, challenge, and support every pupil to achieve their personal best. The successful applicant will have a key role in the continuing development of the subject.

Applications are encouraged from dedicated professionals who aim for excellence in all areas of both the Politics and History curriculums. This role is also well-suited to Early Career Teachers (ECTs) looking to develop within a supportive and innovative environment.

A contribution to the wider life of the School is expected from all staff at Shiplake College. As such you can expect this to include being a tutor attached to a house, taking on the responsibility of duties and contributing to the busy co-curricular programme.

Shiplake College is an independent boarding and day school for just around 580 pupils aged 11 to 18. There has been a co-educational Sixth Form since 1998 and since September 2023 girls have been welcomed into Year 7 as the College became fully co-educational. Situated in 63 acres of beautiful countryside near Henley-on-Thames, we offer an outstanding education based on small class sizes, excellent facilities and dedicated teaching staff.

We offer a competitive salary, excellent free lunches and a contributory pension scheme together with access to our gym and sporting facilities and an excellent working environment.

Early applications are welcomed, as the College reserves the right to appoint at any stage during the application process.

Closing date: 10am on Friday 13 March 2026

Interviews to be held on Wednesday 18 and Friday 20 March 2026

A candidate pack and application form can be obtained from

www.shiplake.org.uk/vacancies

Co-educational boarding and day for ages 11-18, fully

HMC, The Society of Heads, BSA

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 regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage and civil partnerships.