Job Description

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 part-time.

About Cognita

Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 100+ schools in 21 countries - in Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100,000 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 21 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 and 4, with the opportunity to expand into Key Stage 5 as our Sixth Form opened in September 2025. You will play a key role in supporting the Head of English in nurturing a love of the subject and strengthening literacy across the school. Your contribution will help shape a dynamic curriculum that prepares students not only for academic success but also for life beyond the classroom, in line with our Future Skills Vision. You'll also be encouraged to bring creativity, energy and ambition to both the classroom and the wider co-curricular life of the school.

This is a permanent, part-time 0.65 FTE role with a proposed January 2026 start date.

Who we are looking for:

You are a passionate and inspiring English teacher who sets high expectations and fosters an engaging, inclusive learning environment. With excellent subject knowledge and a commitment to academic excellence, you are ready to motivate students and contribute meaningfully to departmental development. Ideally, you bring experience in independent education and a strong track record of pupil progress. You thrive in a collaborative setting, embrace professional development, and are eager to play an active role in our ambitious, forward-looking school community.

Benefits at Cognita

Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience Teacher's Pension Free lunch provided during Term Time 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:

26th October 2025

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.



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.