Job Description

Clifton College seeks to appoint a well-qualified, inspirational, and dynamic teacher to lead our Drama department in the Upper School, ideally commencing in September 2025. However, for the right candidate, a start date of either October half-term or January 2026 could be accommodated.


Please state your availability clearly in your application.


This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and committed Drama practitioner to join a prestigious UK independent boarding and day school with a distinguished history of creating outstanding performance work.

The formal deadline for applications is Thursday 5th June, but it is likely that early applications received in the week beginning Monday 19th May will be considered for an interview on Thursday 22nd May or Friday 23rd May. We reserve the right to appoint at that stage and therefore close the process.

As Head of Drama, you will play a pivotal role in shaping the cultural and artistic landscape for our students. You will be responsible for driving excellence, fostering artistic rigour, and leading the continued development of the Upper School's Drama provision, working collaboratively with the Director of Performing Arts. This role demands a genuine love of theatre in all its forms and a proactive approach to inspiring young performers, technicians and theatre makers.


This unique opportunity allows you to lead a developing and dynamic area within our school, with the scope to implement innovative teaching methodologies and contribute to the department's strategic vision. This position may appeal to a current Head of Department looking to broaden their experience and impact, or an ambitious individual seeking their first middle management post with significant leadership potential. We are looking for someone who is ready to embrace change and lead the department with energy and vision.


A willingness to be flexible with your working pattern is essential, as many enriching Performing Arts events, including performances and rehearsals, take place in the evenings and at weekends. The academic year averages a maximum of 34 weeks, requiring an ability to work intensely and with dedication during term time.


We are eager to welcome a Head of Drama who will continue to nurture this vibrant environment, champion the talents of our students, and lead the department into an exciting future.




Clifton College is part of Clifton College Education Group, and is a leading independent day and boarding school educating over 1,200 pupils aged 3 to 18 years. The College offers day education, flexi and full boarding and is a proudly inclusive and supportive community, with over 40 nationalities represented.


Founded in 1862, the College provides an exceptional all-round education that successfully combines a rich heritage with modern state-of-the-art facilities. Located in one of the most beautiful suburbs of the vibrant city of Bristol, we are proud to offer the finest all-round education based on the highest academic and pastoral standards, and a diverse range of first-class co-curricular activities.




For further details regarding this role, please see the attached job description.


Please note that we can only accept applications via our vacancy website application form (which will also allow you to attach your CV or any other supporting information).

Closing date: 5 June 2025

Early applications are encouraged, as the College reserves the right to interview and possibly appoint candidates before the closing date.


Clifton College is committed to creating and promoting a diverse and inclusive workforce that better reflects our community. Applications are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates regardless of age, disability, sex, gender reassignment, sexual orientation, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief and marriage / civil partnerships. We particularly encourage applications from under-represented groups. Please note, we require candidates to be at least 18 years of age for all roles apart from our lifeguard positions where candidates are required to be 16+ with the relevant qualifications.


We are committed to the safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are required to share this commitment. Safeguarding is underpinned by a range of policies and procedures which encourage and promote safe working practice across the College. We make sure that all our staff are trained and supervised to a high standard so they can provide safe, effective practice.


All posts are subject to a safer recruitment process which includes the disclosure of criminal records and barring checks, scrutiny of employment history, robust referencing and other vetting checks. Due to the nature of the role, you will need to complete an enhanced criminal record disclosure (DBS check) and undergo our pre-employment screening. As a regulated sector we are required to ask for references prior to interview, by applying for this role you are consenting for us to contact your referees.Please note that this role is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 therefore you will be asked to disclose all previous convictions not exempt under amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.