Religious Education Teacher | Norwich

The Opportunity

Norwich is a city with a unique religious and cultural tapestry, known for having both a medieval cathedral and a vibrant, modern pluralistic community. We are seeking an insightful and engaging Religious Education (RE) Teacher to join our Humanities faculty. In an increasingly globalized world, we believe that religious literacy is essential for fostering tolerance, empathy, and critical thinking. This role is perfect for an educator who can facilitate high-level dialogue on faith, philosophy, and ethics, helping our students navigate the complex moral landscapes of the 21st century.

The Religious Education Department

The RE department is a space for deep reflection and rigorous academic inquiry. We treat RE as a multidisciplinary subject, incorporating elements of sociology, history, and philosophy. Our curriculum is designed to be world-leading, moving beyond a "festivals and food" approach to engage with the core theological and philosophical questions that have shaped human civilization.

You will join a collaborative team that prides itself on creating a safe yet challenging classroom environment. We have a strong uptake for GCSE Religious Studies and a popular Philosophy and Ethics pathway at A-Level. The department benefits from excellent links with local faith communities and the Diocese, providing students with opportunities for experiential learning through visits and guest speakers. We are committed to teacher wellbeing, utilizing shared planning and centralized resources to ensure our staff can focus on delivering transformative lessons.

Main Duties and Responsibilities

As a Religious Education Teacher, you will be responsible for broadening the horizons and moral frameworks of our students. Your responsibilities will include:

• Instructional Excellence: Planning and delivering high-quality, thought-provoking lessons across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4. You will prepare students for GCSE examinations by developing their ability to analyze sacred texts, evaluate diverse viewpoints, and construct coherent ethical arguments.

• A-Level Specialism: For candidates with the appropriate academic depth, there is the opportunity to teach at Key Stage 5, leading seminars on the Philosophy of Religion, Developments in Christian Thought, and Ethics.

• Critical Inquiry: Teaching students how to engage with "Big Questions" regarding existence, morality, and the nature of reality, while ensuring they develop a sophisticated understanding of the six major world religions and non-religious worldviews.

• Ethical Dialogue: Facilitating respectful and informed classroom debates on contemporary moral issues, from medical ethics and social justice to environmental stewardship and human rights.

• Literacy and Evaluation: Supporting students in developing the high-level writing skills required to evaluate complex truth-claims and express their own perspectives with clarity and academic rigor.

• Spiritual and Moral Development: Contributing to the wider SMSC (Spiritual, Moral, Social, and Cultural) life of the school, helping students develop a sense of identity and a respect for the diversity of the Norwich community.

Person Specification

The successful candidate will be an articulate and empathetic subject specialist with a passion for philosophy and theology. You should possess:

• Academic and Professional Credentials: A degree in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, or a related field, and Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). We welcome applications from both experienced practitioners and Early Career Teachers (ECTs).

• Subject Authority: A broad and deep understanding of world religions and the ability to handle sensitive topics with objectivity, academic rigor, and professional distance.

• Pedagogical Skill: The ability to make abstract philosophical concepts—such as the Problem of Evil or Utilitarianism—accessible and engaging for students of all abilities.

• Communication and Rapport: Exceptional interpersonal skills, with the ability to foster a classroom culture where every student feels heard and respected, regardless of their personal faith or lack thereof.

• Drive for Excellence: A proactive approach to professional growth and a commitment to maintaining the high academic standards of the school and its Humanities faculty.

Why Join Our School?

Working at our school in Norwich offers a rewarding career within a supportive and culturally rich professional environment. Benefits include:

• Professional Investment: A comprehensive CPD programme designed to support your career aspirations, including access to subject-specialist networks and training in philosophical inquiry.

• Collaborative Culture: A staffroom that values diversity of thought and works together to reduce individual workload through the creation of high-quality shared resources.

• Facilities and Resources: Modern classrooms with excellent digital infrastructure and a dedicated Humanities library to support student research.

• Location: Benefit from working in a historic, "fine city" that offers a high quality of life, exceptional heritage, and close proximity to the beautiful Norfolk coast and Broads.

How to Apply

To apply for this Religious Education Teacher position in Norwich, please submit your CV.