University College School was founded in 1830 to promote principles of liberal scholarship. That remains our first and overriding aim. Intellectual curiosity, breadth of study and independence of mind combine to achieve academic excellence; they are not subordinate to it. UCS remains true to the liberal traditions of its founders and continues to work hard to foster independence of mind among its pupils, to value their individuality and to create a diverse and inclusive community. Academic results are excellent. Music and drama are very strong at UCS and the school offers an outstanding range of co-curricular activities and enrichment opportunities.

The English Department

English at UCS fosters a love of literature and language, encouraging pupils to read widely, think critically and write with precision and creativity. In recent years, over 90% of results at A-level have been graded at A*/A, while the 9/8 rates at GCSE level have been above 90% for Language and Literature. English is also a popular subject choice at A-level and many pupils go on to read English at university. The department currently follows the Edexcel International GCSE specifications for English Language and English Literature and the Eduqas specification at A-level.

Within programmes of study and examination specifications, teachers are free to pursue their own schemes of work, typically in collaboration with other members of the department. Weekly meetings also allow teachers to share best practice and establish common objectives.

The department organises a wide range of co-curricular events, such as theatre trips and academic workshops. It also runs a number of clubs and societies, such as Diversity Book Club and the Advanced Reading Group. Its two major competitions - the Gunn Essay Prize and the UCS Poetry Competition - always receive a high number of submissions.

The English Department has six dedicated teaching rooms, extensive teaching resources, generous ICT provision and a library of critical material.

The Present Vacancy

The current vacancy is a fixed-term full-time post. It offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic teacher to develop their career in a lively and innovative setting as part of a dynamic, supportive and collaborative department. The successful applicant will be a strong graduate of a relevant degree course, with a deep passion for English Literature and the ability to convey this effectively to pupils across all age groups. 

This is an outstanding opportunity to teach English at a high level in a congenial and stimulating setting. We welcome equally applications from teachers in the maintained sector and the independent sector. 

A willingness to contribute to the co-curricular life of the school will be an additional and important recommendation. We expect all of our teachers to be Form Tutors.

Salary and Benefits

UCS has its own competitive salary scale. The payment for this post will be dependent upon qualifications and experience, but will be above the national scale.

While the school does not offer accommodation, schemes are in place to assist members of staff with loans for house purchase.  The school is similarly prepared to offer loans to help with daily travel expenses. In all cases, eligibility for financial assistance is carefully and independently scrutinised and every effort is made to assess the needs of individual applicants.  

If admitted to the school, the children of UCS staff may be educated at reduced fees.

All members of staff are entitled to membership of UCS Active (the private Health & Fitness Club based in the Sir Roger Bannister Sports Centre) at a heavily reduced rate. 

Arrangements for the Appointment

Please submit your application via the UCS page on My New Term. The closing date for applications is 12pm on Wednesday 13th May 2026 However, please note that we reserve the right to interview and appoint at any stage during this process; early applications are therefore very welcome. 

University College School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check before commencing employment.  This is a requirement as the position is within a school working with children aged under 18. UCS will also undertake its own recruitment checks through contact with previous employers, and others, to confirm applicants' identities and their professional records.