Teacher of History and Politics

Required from September 2026, full time or part time position

Downe House is a leading independent boarding and day school for girls aged 11-18, based near Thatcham, 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 prepared to take on the world.

We are looking to appoint an outstanding and enthusiastic Teacher of History and Politics to start in September 2026. As a Teacher of History and Politics you will contribute to the teaching of History across the school and Politics in the Sixth Form, delivering engaging and high-quality lessons that inspire students. You will support the planning of Politics and Citizenship as part of the Key Stage 3 World Ready Programme, ensuring that content is relevant, coherent and aligned with wider curricular goals.

At GCSE History, pupils follow the Edexcel IGCSE Specification (Russia , Weimar and Nazi Germany, The Cold War, and the Middle East). At A level we deliver the Edexcel course with a distinctly Modern focus (Communist Russia and China, British Protest and Reform, c., and US Civil Rights NEA).

Politics is an extremely popular subject at A Level. We currently teach Edexcel A Level Politics with the US option, and offer a range of trips, from visits to Parliament to the Pol Econ conference.

We welcome applications from experienced teachers who are keen to develop their practice within a leading independent boarding and day school for girls. The ideal candidate will be able to teach History and Politics to all levels, including GCSE and A level.

Please specify in your application if you are seeking a full time or part time position.

We offer great benefits including:

21% employer contribution to pension, or 16% contribution plus 5% pay increase

Life Insurance and Critical Illness cover

Regular CPD opportunities and a supportive induction programme

Provision of delicious free meals, on-site parking

Modern gym and swimming pool facilities, for staff use at set times

A vibrant and supportive staff community

A beautiful working environment in a semi-rural location

If you would like to speak to our Head of History and Politics or the HR Team to find out more before submitting an application, please do contact us at

Closing date:
Monday 22nd June 2026

Teams screening calls may be arranged with candidates as applications are received.

On site interviews:
Tuesday 30th June 2026

Applicants must have the right to work in the UK - we are unable to offer sponsorship for this position. Own transport is essential as the school is in a rural location with no public transport links.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people, and any offer of employment is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Check (DBS), satisfactory references, 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.