Head of Department
RGS Senior
Full time Mathematics
“
Pupils display excellent attitudes to their learning. They are passionate, motivated and enthusiastic.
ISI Inspection
Pupils are highly motivated and relish a sense of challenge.
ISI Inspection
HEADMASTER’S WELCOME
Thank you for your interest in the post of Head of Mathematics at the Royal Grammar School Guildford.
The RGS boasts a diverse, vibrant community of individuals in both teaching and support roles who take pride in the success of their School.
The School’s success presents itself in its most recent GCSE and A level results; in the large number of student applications year on year (consistently four applications for every place); the ISI inspection report in which the RGS was rated ‘Excellent’ across all aspects of School life; in the range of sporting achievements and in the staff who are proud to say that they work here.
Our boys are “excellent listeners who contribute to discussion with great respect” and “display excellent attitudes to their learning” (ISI report, February 2022). The academic standards in the School are excellent and the curriculum is enriched by an extensive extra-curricular programme in which all academic staff are expected to participate; sports and the arts are an important element in School life.
The benefits of working here go beyond those listed in the job description; if you accept an offer of employment, you would be joining a staff body that collaborates professionally and socially across all departments.
The RGS is an exciting place in which to be a member of staff; I look forward to receiving an application from you.
HEADMASTER
MATHEMATICS
The Department
The Mathematics Department is the largest department at the RGS. All boys study mathematics up to Fifth Form and about 80% of those in the Sixth Form take one or two Mathematics A Levels.
There are currently twenty members of the department, with several staff members teaching in other disciplines such as Physics in addition to Mathematics. In addition to our own large departmental base there are a range of large and small dedicated Mathematics classrooms. The department is well-resourced: text books and internally-produced problem sheets are supplemented by appropriate use of ICT including graphing and geometry packages.
Lower School
For the First to Third Form (Years 7-9) boys are taught in their form groups and receive four lessons per week. The course follows an enhanced and extended version of the National Curriculum and stresses the understanding of concepts and structure of algorithmic methods. Additional topics such as Set Theory allow pupils to enhance their understanding of abstract mathematical relationships in a creative but disciplined manner.
The high degree of mutual respect between pupils and teachers is a key feature in [the pupils’] success. ISI Inspection “ “
Middle School
By the end of the Third Form boys will have covered many GCSE topics in depth and this gives them a firm basis for their studies over the following two years. Boys are streamed into sets and around two-thirds take Further Mathematics (AQA) alongside their IGCSE (Edexcel) examination at the end of the Fifth Form. Results are excellent with consistently over 70% of pupils achieving a grade 9.
Upper School
Mathematics is by far the most popular subject in the Sixth Form (one third of all A-Level qualifications at the school are in Mathematics). In a typical year 80 pupils will opt for Single Mathematics (six classes) and 50 for Double Mathematics (three classes). Boys follow the Edexcel syllabus for both qualifications and Further Mathematics students study additional content beyond that required for their examination in areas from Further Pure Mathematics, Mechanics and Statistics. The department has outstanding examination results: 90% of grades are A or better and 40% of all of the school’s A* grades are in Mathematics.
Enrichment
Boys in all years are entered for various individual and team national Mathematics competitions with many going on to qualify for subsequent Olympiad rounds. We also participate in the local Guildford schools’ team competitions and run an internal house competition and Mathematics clubs. The success of the department is reflected in the popularity of Mathematics among the boys while at school and beyond: in the past ten years over 80 boys have gone on to read the subject at university (over half at Oxford or Cambridge).
JOB DESCRIPTION & PROFESSIONAL EXPECTATIONS
Job Title: Head of Mathematics
Responsible to: Senior Master
Responsible for: Members of the Mathematics Department
Role Specification
The following description contains many of the roles and responsibilities of a Head of Department at the RGS. We encourage an ethos of continuing professional development and, to that extent, expect those in the role to be working towards these descriptors in collaboration with, and with the support of, their Line Manager.
It is not expected that Heads of Department will personally implement all that follows, but rather lead teams and create a culture in which other staff willingly take responsibility and collaborate in a team effort.
The post holder will be responsible for the following aspects of the department:
• Strategic leadership
• Staff development
• Student experience
• Coordination
Strategic leadership
Heads of Department will look beyond the day-to-day operational management of their department and have a shared vision for the future, identifying and implementing medium term strategic development priorities.
a) To establish a medium-term vision for the department.
b) To plan and implement strategic departmental priorities and projects, consistent with the School’s Development Strategy.
c) To be aware of curriculum requirements and lead the department’s curriculum planning and delivery in accordance with school policy and in conjunction with the Assistant Head (Curriculum).
d) To maintain one’s own high standards of continuing professional development including inter alia improving qualifications and expertise, keeping up to date with subject and pedagogical developments and examination requirements and attending training courses as appropriate.
e) To nurture an inclusive culture within the department to enable all staff to perform at their best.
Staff development
Heads of Department will put people at the heart of their leadership and will support the wellbeing and professional development of all members of the team they line manage.
a) To manage and motivate departmental staff, empowering them to deliver an excellent programme of study for pupils in all year groups.
b) To support the professional development of the department’s teachers, including regular meetings to support achievement of their Personal Development Strategies.
c) To regularly monitor and evaluate the assessment of pupils by the department’s teachers and ensure its consistency with school and/or departmental policy.
d) To ensure a clear shared philosophy for the development of teaching and learning within the department.
e) To regularly monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching within the department, implementing appropriate strategies where intervention is required.
f) To ensure teachers new to the department receive appropriate support, including induction, guidance, supervision, observation and feedback.
Student experience
Heads of Department will ensure that the student experience is of the highest possible quality, and regularly monitor and support the quality of teaching, learning and the learning environment.
a) To inculcate a love of the subject and encourage all pupils to achieve excellence in their work in accordance with their ability and potential.
b) To take appropriate opportunities to develop pupils’ character through promotion of the School’s Values.
c) To support pupils’ progress consistent with the school’s Learning Habits and its ethos of ‘Scholarship for All’.
d) To monitor pupils’ academic progress and achievement including their performance in internal and external examinations and adjust provision, as required.
e) To provide feedback and raise any performance or wellbeing concerns with pupils, parents, tutor, Head of Year or other staff, as required.
f) To promote interesting, engaging and rewarding extra-curricular opportunities for pupils and ensure staff participation across the entire department.
g) To support pupils’ application to study beyond the School, through appropriate provision of classes including inter alia extension classes, mock interviews and feedback on university applications.
Desire Webster Teacher of Mathematics, joined 2017
What's the best thing about working at the RGS?
You are treated professionally and the boys are a pleasure to teach. An excellent environment to grow as a teacher.
If you could give one bit of advice to your younger self what would it be? Be kind to yourself.
Andy Gyford Teacher of Mathematics, joined 2015
What's the best thing about working at the RGS?
The students! They are largely very keen and able at Maths and they keep you on your toes.
Which staff social groups are you involved in?
I've run staff dance and board game events, and often get a pub quiz team together.
Heads of Department will ensure that operational management and communication is highly efficient and effective.
a) To organise regular departmental and 1:1 meetings, and maintain a record of minutes.
b) To actively participate in various committee meetings such as Heads of Department, Strategy Groups and Cluster Groups, including sharing best practices and implementation of School and departmental policies.
c) To develop and maintain professional networks with other subject heads, exploring collaboration opportunities and sharing best practices.
d) To advise the Headmaster in the recruitment and performance of the department’s staff.
e) To collaborate with other stakeholders including, inter alia, Learning Support, Examinations Office, Careers and Higher Education, Teacher Training and Scholarship.
f) To prepare an annual analysis of the department’s public examination results, identifying areas of success and plans to address areas for improvement. These should be discussed annually with the Headmaster and Assistant Head (Curriculum).
g) To maintain and present such departmental records and information as the Headmaster may require, including inter alia the Departmental Handbook, departmental policies, HoDs information to parents and colleagues about the work and achievements of the department, Curriculum Guides, Pupil/Parent Options Evenings, up to date schemes of work and pupil performance.
h) To be responsible for departmental rooms, equipment, liaison around safety and risk assessments (where applicable), stock control, expenditure and associated budgeting.
i) To maintain current, high quality displays of work in departmental areas.
j) To be available to meet regularly with the relevant SMT Line Manager and keep them informed of any relevant matters relating to the department.
k) To ensure that adequate work has been set in the case of departmental staff absence
Jill Thorpe Deputy Head, joined 2016
What’s the best thing about working at the RGS?
Working in a school where you are given professional freedom, trust and the resources to do your job.
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?
Anything outdoors from dog walking and sailing to being part of the Search and Rescue team.
Person Specification
Leadership
• The ability to inspire and manage a team to work towards a common goal.
• The ability to communicate enthusiasm and vision to staff, pupils and parents.
• An individual who strives for the highest standards at all times.
• A measured, reliable and confident decision-maker who is calm and positive under pressure.
• Patient, firm and empathetic when faced with difficult situations.
• The ability to identify problems and propose/execute positive solutions in collaboration with Line Management.
Skills and abilities
• Proven track record as an outstanding teacher with strong subject knowledge.
• Knowledge and understanding of effective teaching and learning styles.
• Ability to use data to record, monitor and analyse performance.
• Competent in the use of ICT for teaching and departmental leadership.
• An excellent organiser, including strong time management and prioritisation skills.
• A collaborator, looking beyond the interests of the department.
• Strong communication skills.
Personal qualities
• Kind, compassionate and respectful of others.
• Intellectual curiosity, enthusiasm and the ability to inspire a love of learning.
• Demonstrates integrity and discretion.
• A proven ability to build effective working relationships.
• Flexibility and adaptability in the face of a changing educational landscape.
• A desire to contribute towards the extra-curricular activities of the department and the school, and to ensure the involvement of others.
• Commitment to safeguarding and to promoting the welfare of pupils.
• Commitment to diversity and inclusion within the school community
Qualifications
• To have an appropriate academic qualification or equivalent experience.
• To have a teaching qualification (or equivalent experience).
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• A satisfactory Enhanced Disclosure from the DBS
WORKING AT THE RGS
Your career at the RGS begins with a warm welcome and comprehensive induction. You will be introduced to department colleagues, key people within the School and fellow new starters from across the departments.
Opportunities to get involved in wider school activities are many and varied; sporting fixtures, theatre productions and field trips to name just a few. Then there are the social groups set up by and for colleagues which include a running group, book club, theatre trips, football and a wind band. However you choose to get involved, you are guaranteed to find yourself among like-minded individuals.
Ingrid Busby Teacher of Mathematics, joined 2019
What's the best thing about working at the RGS? The overall caring culture, the collegiate nature of the staff and the engagement of the students.
What is your motto in life? Presence not presents.
Guy
Elliott-Davies Data Manager, joined 2010
What do you love about your department? There's never a day there's not something to laugh about!
What do you enjoy doing in your spare time? Playing and Officiating Ice Hockey, Making Music, Photography.
Kalpesh Patel Teacher of Mathematics, joined 2024
What's the best thing about working at the RGS? Amazing culture and atmosphere where everyone is learning.
What is your motto in life? Be the change you wish to see in the world.
BENEFITS
In addition to joining a successful and sociable staff body you will also receive the following benefits:
Remuneration
Fee reduction
Relocation
Well above the national scale, comparing favourably with others in the independent sector.
Fee reduction for son(s) of staff is available (after a qualifying period and subject to success at the entrance examination).
A generous relocation package for those living outside the area. There is a mortgage subsidy scheme as well as a rental scheme.
Medical Private medical scheme.
Employee Assistance Programme
Career progression
Gym
A free, confidential counselling & wellbeing support service that can support you, your partner or spouse, and dependent children over 16 still living at home.
The RGS has a proven track record of career progression, both within the School and promotion to other schools.
Use of on-site gym at certain times of the day.
Dining Lunch and refreshments are provided during term time.
ABOUT THE ROYAL GRAMMAR SCHOOL
The RGS is a kind, inclusive, tolerant community where diverse opportunity, personal development, high achievement and collaborative partnership define who we are.
Our values of inclusivity, scholarship, integrity, respect, courage and collaboration underpin all we do.
Boys come to the RGS from around 140 different schools in Surrey and the neighbouring home counties and this number is growing each year. We regularly receive four applications for every place.
The RGS curriculum aims to combine breadth with balance. In the first three years all boys study a broad range of subjects, choosing options at the end of their third year which sees them sitting ten GCSE subjects including English Language, English Literature, a Modern Foreign Language, Mathematics, three separate sciences and a humanities subject. From the Third Form, a Tutor Period is introduced during which boys study Information Technology, Problem Solving, First Aid, Health Education and Study Skills. It is also during this time that initial careers and higher education guidance is given which then continues throughout the boys’ time at the School.
The RGS boasts a thriving Sixth Form with all boys studying four subjects in the Lower Sixth and then continuing with three or four subjects to A Level in the Upper Sixth. This is complemented by a range of General Studies courses which are co-educational, organised jointly with Guildford High School.
All boys are encouraged to engage in independent research and activities throughout their time in the School via our Scholarship for all programme. Whilst not curricular, there is an expectation that staff will support this provision as their experience and expertise enables.
All members of the teaching staff help with co- and extra-curricular activities, of which there is an impressively wide range. Music, Art and Drama all flourish with performances, exhibitions and workshops. There is a well-equipped auditorium, a large Art School and a purpose built Music Department. We have a very active clubs and societies programme that takes place before, during and after school each day. All the Third Form take part in our curricular, weekly expedition and adventure programme, EXAD. We have five Field Days per year and also offer overseas expeditions, a large Duke of Edinburgh’s Award Programme and numerous sports tours. Staff are invited to attend and support all of these events.
WHY WORK IN GUILDFORD?
Guildford is a vibrant and exciting place. Rich in history, it is a welcoming town with a flourishing and varied cultural life. Entertainment is diverse with a number of lively and nationally renowned venues including G Live, the Yvonne Arnaud theatre and the eclectic Electric Theatre. There are outstanding sport and leisure facilities which include the state-of-the-art training venues and sports complexes of Surrey Sports Park and Guildford Spectrum. Guildford offers one of the south east’s best shopping experiences with the iconic High Street combining exclusive and popular national chains as well as a number of independent retailers. Dining options cater for every taste and budget with local traditional and gastro pubs in nearby Surrey villages drawing customers from a wide area.
Educationally, Guildford is thriving. RGS Guildford and Guildford High School are regularly ranked in the top ten single-sex schools in the country. RGS also enjoys close links with other girls’ schools, Tormead School and St Catherine’s, Bramley. The University of Surrey was awarded ‘University of the Year for Graduate Employment’ by The Times and The Sunday Times Good University Guide 2022.
Guildford has the advantage of being very accessible and enjoys excellent transport links. London is just over a 30-mile drive via the A3 and well served by trains (just 29 minutes to Clapham Junction and 39 minutes to London Waterloo). International airports London Gatwick and London Heathrow are only 30 minutes from the town.
Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty are close by; the Surrey Hills and North Downs are on the School's doorstep and provide opportunities to enjoy the stunning countryside; the south coast is approximately one hour by car.
William Cobbett “
The town of Guildford, which I, who have seen so many, many towns, think it is the prettiest, and…most happylooking, that I ever saw in my life.
GUILDFORD
The setting:
The Surrey Hills
North Downs
South Downs
Picturesque villages
The south coast
Travel by rail:
Clapham Junction 29 minutes
London Waterloo 39 minutes
Portsmouth Harbour 60 minutes
Gatwick Airport 45 minutes
Travel by road:
London 32 miles via the A3; Heathrow 22 miles; Gatwick 34 miles via A3 and M25; Portsmouth 44 miles; Brighton 59 miles
North Downs
The
Guildford Castle
SAFEGUARDING
OF CHILDREN & SECURITY OF DISCLOSURE INFORMATION
The Royal Grammar School Guildford meets the requirements in respect of exempted questions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All applicants who are offered employment will be subject to an enhanced criminal record check from the DBS before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings, as well as convictions. It is of fundamental importance to The Royal Grammar School to ensure, so far as possible, that those who take up appointments do not pose a risk to the children in its care.
APPLICATIONS
We are proactively committed to creating a diverse staff which reflects the community that we teach. At RGS we value diversity and inclusion; we want to attract the best people for the roles available. This is regardless of age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, disability, socioeconomic status or religious beliefs.
Please note: applications will be considered on receipt and we reserve the right to close applications early.
TO SEE MORE FROM THE RGS…
SAFEGUARDING OF CHILDREN & SECURITY OF DISCLOSURE INFORMATION
The Royal Grammar School Guildford meets the requirements in respect of exempted questions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974. All applicants who are offered employment will be subject to an enhanced criminal record check from the DBS before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings, as well as convictions. It is of fundamental importance to The Royal Grammar School to ensure, so far as possible, that those who take up appointments do not pose a risk to the children in its care.
APPLICATIONS
We are proactively committed to creating a diverse staff body, which reflects the community that we teach. At RGS we value diversity and inclusion; we want to attract the best people for the roles available. This is regardless of age, ethnicity, sexual orientation, gender, disability, socioeconomic status or religious beliefs.
Please note: applications will be considered on receipt and we reserve the right to close applications early.
TO SEE MORE FROM THE RGS…
