Life as a Chaplain in a prestigious independent Boarding and Day School for girls is a rewarding vocation, like no other. Sharing your life with staff and pupils and living amongst them in a close-knit and vibrant community as a spiritual and moral guide, bringing Jesus' light and love, affords tremendous opportunities.
Required from January/April 2026, full-time position
Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based in Cold Ash, Berkshire. Our aim is to provide pupils with a wealth of academic, pastoral and co-curricular opportunities to allow them to grow into confident young women who are committed to playing an active role in the world beyond Downe House. We are looking to appoint an inspiring Chaplain to provide spiritual and pastoral leadership within the school community, nurture faith and walk alongside our pupils, staff and families.
As a School Chaplain you will:
Lead and co-ordinate all services of worship within the school, including weekly services, Confirmation and carol services and services to mark other major events in the school calendar.
Teach and witness the relevance of Christian faith principles in a modern, secular and multi-faith community in creative and innovative ways.
Provide a pastoral and caring presence around the school, whilst communicating positive faith and moral values.
Nurture the involvement of pupils and staff in services.
Grow and develop initiatives to encourage acts of service within the community.
Teach a preferred subject part time across various age groups.
The ideal candidate will:
Be a graduate and an ordained (Anglican) priest;
Preferably be a qualified teacher, with experience of teaching across all age groups;
Have experience of working with young people and able to relate well to adolescents from diverse backgrounds and enjoy their company;
Have excellent pastoral skills and an approachable, welcoming, inclusive and caring manner;
Be a sensitive communicator with a warm approach and a sense of humour, able to develop encouraging, collaborative and fruitful relationships with pupils, staff and parents;
Be enthusiastic to work in a busy boarding school with high standards.
At Downe House you will join a supportive, close-knit team where professional development is valued, and colleagues share a common commitment to educational excellence. From our regular CPD sessions to seasonal gatherings, you’ll find opportunities to connect, collaborate, and grow within our welcoming school community.
Benefits Include:
Off site accommodation may be provided close to the School for the right candidate and as necessary
Generous teacher pension scheme - 21% employer contribution
Life insurance and critical illness cover
Discounted school fees up to 65%
Beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location
Delicious free meals
Modern gym and swimming pool facilities
A variety of social occasions throughout the year
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced DBS and social media checks.
At Downe House we promote equality of opportunity for all pupils and staff, both current and prospective, and we actively support an environment and culture that values diversity and inclusion.
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Hermitage Road, Cold Ash, Thatcham, RG18 9JJ
01635 200286 https://downehouse.net
Closing Date: 26 September 2025
