House Pastoral Leader

SHIPLAKE COLLEGE; Oxford; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Part time

Job summary

An independent educational institution in Oxford seeks a House Pastoral Leader to join the pastoral team. This role is focused on ensuring the well-being of students in a caring environment. Responsibilities include supervising pupils and maintaining effective communication with parents. Ideal candidates will possess strong interpersonal skills and a flexible, empathetic approach. This is a term-time only position working three days a week with additional benefits.

Benefits

Contributory pension scheme

Free lunches and evening meals

Access to gym facilities

Supportive colleagues

Qualifications

• Ability to communicate effectively with young people.
• Reliable, warm, and friendly demeanor.
• Flexible approach to situations.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the running of the House.
• Supervise pupils, ensuring their well-being.
• Communicate effectively with pupils and parents.

Skills

Interpersonal skills

Listening skills

Sensitivity

Humour

Job description

Overview

The House Pastoral Leader is a vital member of the pastoral team, led by the Housemaster/mistress, and works to ensure the highest standards of pastoral care in the House. The role is for an organised, empathetic and resourceful individual with a passion for the wellbeing of young people.

About Shiplake College

Shiplake College is a thriving, HMC school catering for boarding and day pupils aged 11‑18. The school is fully co‑educational and located on a 63‑acre rural site overlooking the River Thames, with excellent access to Reading, London and Oxford.

Responsibilities

• Assist with the smooth, day‑to‑day running of the House.
• Supervise and provide care for pupils, ensuring physical, social and emotional wellbeing.
• Oversee the presentation and general wellbeing of pupils within the House.
• Communicate effectively with young people, parents and guardians.
• Maintain confidentiality and integrity in all interactions.
• Participate in the varied extra‑curricular life of a busy boarding and day school as required.

Qualifications

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to communicate with young people.
• Good listening skills, reliability, warmth and friendliness.
• Sensitivity, tact, diplomacy and a flexible approach.
• A good sense of humour and an even temperament in dealing with all situations.
• Fundamental to carrying out the role in a co‑operative and sensitive manner.

Working Hours & Conditions

This is a term‑time only role, working 3 days a week (Wednesday to Friday) from 7.30 am to 5 pm, plus INSET of 3 days per annum to start as soon as possible. There is an additional 4 weeks of paid overtime available.

Benefits

• Contributory pension scheme (TPS or alternative option for support staff).
• Free lunches and evening meals on duty.
• Access to on‑site gym facilities and open‑air swimming pool during summer months.
• Opportunities to join staff teams such as football, touch rugby and cricket.
• Supportive colleagues and a beautiful working environment.

Values & Vision

Shiplake College values an inclusive, individual and inspirational ethos, encouraging personal development, Christian values and a strong work ethic. The college aims to provide a structured and supportive environment for all pupils.