About the role

About St Catherine of Siena

Rather than us tell you about the school, we’ll let our community speak for itself.

‘I want to just say how pleased and thankful I am. I really see that all the staff go above and beyond and that is reflected in my children’s enthusiasm and love for school. They encourage and develop all of them and inspire them to be the best that they can be.’(Parent email)

‘I am delighted and proud that my kids go to a school that is open, positive, inclusive, and has an unbiased approach to global issues. You have taken great steps in bringing about justice, equity, peace, and hopefully, we will reap the rewards of these actions as the children grow into well-informed adults. Simply amazing.’ (Parent email)

‘There is always such a lovely atmosphere in the school which is so warm and welcoming.’ (Herts School Improvement Partner email).

Without fail, visitors to St Cath’s always comment on the warm, friendly, family feel that they encounter every time they enter the building.  Does this sound like the kind of school you would like to be part of?

St Cath’s is a popular, oversubscribed one-form entry primary school, with two bulge classes in Years 5 and 6 next academic year. We have extensive, beautiful grounds, a unique chapel and library, a farm and a school dog. Situated on the outskirts of Watford, we have excellent transport links to central London, the M1, M25, A405 and A41. 

About the role

We are seeking a dynamic, enthusiastic teacher to join our vibrant team. Our ideal candidate would have experience in teaching Upper Key Stage 2, as we will have two bulge classes in Years 5 and Year next year. Although primarily a class-based position, there is scope for leadership roles including core subject leadership, Phase Leader and potential to join the Senior Leadership Team for the right candidate. The role is ideal for someone looking for career progression.

We are committed to ensuring our pupils have the best possible school experience.  This means that excellence in teaching and learning, high pupil outcomes and a rich, broad and balance curriculum are our focus. In addition, we enhance our children’s experience through our outdoor environment, enrichment activities and a school dog! 

We are very proud of our whole school community and would love the opportunity to welcome the right person into St Catherine’s.  

What makes us different?

All our staff are paid at least the Living Wage Foundation National Living Wage and we reflect our staff’s loyalty, hard work and commitment to the school in their wages and opportunities for progression.

We are proud to have an extremely diverse school community and celebrating the heritages of our children and families is an integral part of our ethos.

Children leave at 1.35pm on Fridays, so that all teachers can have their PPA together (allowing for collaboration and support) on a Friday afternoon, along with their TA. We encourage ‘Wellbeing Wednesdays’, dress-down Friday and teachers are permitted to take PPA off-site if preferred.

About our Trust

As a member of the Diocese of Westminster Multi Academy Trust (DOWAT), you will be part of a strong, collaborative network of exceptional professionals. Comprised of 16 schools (8 primary and 8 secondary schools, with more soon to join), DOWAT is amongst the top performing Catholic multi-academy trusts in the country, with a deep commitment to delivering an outstanding 21st century education and upholding traditional Catholic values. 

Teachers at all levels are part of internal Trust networks, sharing Insets, CPD, best practice and addressing challenges in an open, safe environment. Working within the Trust also provides opportunities for future career growth and promotion, including potential secondments and work across other schools.

Diversity, Equity & Inclusion

At St Catherine of Siena, diversity, equity, and inclusion are at the core of who we are. We strive to be a place where all stakeholders (pupils, parents/guardians and staff) can be themselves.

We commit to attract, retain, and develop diverse talent and to respect and value differences arising from age, creed, culture, disability, educational background, ethnicity, gender, gender expression, nationality, race, religion and beliefs, sexual orientation, and other dimensions. Applications will be anonymised prior to shortlisting, to reduce the potential for unconscious bias. 

Visits to our wonderful school are highly recommended.  Please email g.phipps@st-catherine.herts.sch.uk or by telephoning 01923 676022 to arrange a school tour or for further information about the role and to request a Job Description. 

We reserve the right to close the advertisement before the deadline if we receive strong applications, so please apply early to avoid disappointment.

Please note that applications must be on the CES form.  Non-Catholic applicants do not need to provide a priest's reference. We warmly welcome applications from those of all faiths, or none.