Part-time Teacher of English

TES FE News; City Of London; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 35,000; Part time

Job summary

An independent girls' school in London is seeking a passionate Teacher of English to cover maternity leave starting January 2026. The role requires creativity and enthusiasm for teaching at Key Stage 3. Candidates should be committed to making an impact in a diverse school environment with a focus on literature. Competitive salary and benefits are offered, including professional development opportunities and discounts for GDST schools.

Benefits

Competitive salaries and pay progression

Access to professional development

Training grants for qualifications

Generous pension schemes

Free school lunches

Financial guidance and support

Retail and lifestyle discounts

50% discount on fees for children at GDST schools

Qualifications

• Experience teaching at Key Stage 3.
• Creativity, initiative, and innovation in the classroom.

Responsibilities

• Covering maternity leave as a Teacher of English.
• Inspiring students and making a meaningful impact.

Job description

Job Overview

Sydenham High School seeks a passionate and committed Teacher of English to cover maternity leave from January 2026. This is a rare and sought-after opportunity to join a highly qualified, experienced and dynamic English Department within a selective, diverse and forward-thinking independent girls’ school.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and inspiring English teacher, with experience at Key Stage 3, who brings creativity, initiative and innovation to the classroom. This maternity cover post is ideal for a teacher who wants to make a meaningful impact in a thriving school community, while enjoying the flexibility of a part-time timetable and the professional advantages of being part of the GDST family.

English at Sydenham High School

The English Department comprises a mixture of full-time and part-time staff who share a belief in the power of literature to inspire and enable students to experience a wide range of voices and perspectives.

Beyond the classroom, we offer an extensive enrichment programme, including Literature Society, Creative Writing, Debating, Oxbridge extension and academic support clinics. Theatre trips, workshops and national competitions further enrich this popular subject.

Why Sydenham High School?

Established in 1887, Sydenham High is an independent day school for girls aged 4-18 with over 700 pupils. The school is part of the Girls' Day School Trust, the leading and largest group of independent girls' schools in the UK. The GDST is at the forefront of education for girls and has a strong voice in promoting opportunities for young women.

We are ambitious and forward thinking, committed to outstanding teaching, excellent pastoral care and educating the ‘whole child’ through tolerance, mutual respect and innovation.

As part of the GDST family, we offer a competitive salary and benefits package, including:

• Competitive salaries and pay progression


• Access to extensive professional development opportunities


• Training grants for qualifications


• Generous pension schemes


• Free school lunches


• Financial guidance and support


• Retail and lifestyle discounts


• A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools

For more details, please contact [e-mail] or the School Office on 0208 557 7000.

How To Apply

To apply, please click the apply button.

Applications should be received no later than 9am on Wednesday 8 October 2025.

We reserve the right to interview at any point during the recruitment process, so early applications are encouraged. References for candidates invited to interview will be taken prior to interview.

We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. To be eligible for employment, candidates must provide proof of their right to work in the UK.

The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included. GDST are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection checks appropriate to the post, including online searches, and checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.