Downside School is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18, and one of England’s oldest and most distinguished Catholic schools. We are situated at the foot of the Mendip Hills, twelve miles south of the city of Bath.

This part time, (non-residential) role is working as part of a dedicated team, assisting with and contributing to the supervision and care of pupils in one of our boys boarding Houses.

Do you have experience of working with children aged between 11 and 18, ideally in a pastoral role? We have an opportunity for someone to join us to support the smooth running of Barlow House during the School day. As House Parent you are part of a team responsible for ensuring the boarding house feels like a home to our pupils, both full-time and flexi-borders. You will build positive, professional relationships with School staff and parents, providing relevant information about individual pupils as necessary.

House Parents are responsible for pupil clothing/uniform, health (in conjunction with the Health Centre) and general well-being within the house. You will support the domestic staff working in the House, and assist the House Master or Mistress (HsM) and other pastoral staff in ensuring that their work is carried out effectively and efficiently. There is also an element of administration involved with this role, so experience of using MS Office is required.

The successful applicant will be given training in child protection, prevent, fire safety, food hygiene, GDPR and general boarding as part of their induction program. Any experience and qualifications in relation to the above are desirable.

Working hours are every Thursday and Friday and alternate Saturdays 0800 until 1800 with a 30 minute unpaid meal break term time only plus ten days per year to cover INSET and closing / reopening house before and after holidays.

Downside School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS.

We strive to be an equal opportunities employer. By car, we are within 40 minutes of Bristol, 30 minutes of Bath and 15 minutes of Wells.

Registered Company No. 11751009 and Registered Charity No: 1184700