Salary: Main Scale/ UPR + TLR1
Job type: Full Time, Permanent
Start date: 01 September 2026
Apply by: 14 January 2026
St Columba’s Catholic Boys’ School are looking to appoint an innovative, enthusiastic and dedicated Head to lead our very successful RE department from September 2026. The RE results at St Columba’s are outstanding in every respect – students do well in RE and the subject is highly regarded by them. Over 50% of boys achieved a Grade 7 in Summer 2025 in RE; these results were the leading achievements as the school recorded the strongest results it has ever had across the board.
If you are an outstanding practitioner with the ability to inspire and motivate colleagues and students, we would like to hear from you.
The successful candidate will not only be passionate about their subject, and have exceptional subject knowledge, but also have a passion and drive for our students to make excellent progress. The outstanding attitude to learning of our students gives you the opportunity to teach your subject and deliver exciting and engaging lessons.
St Columba’s is a Catholic comprehensive school for boys aged 11 – 16 in the London Borough of Bexley. The school’s ethos and vision is that every member of our school community is a unique and special creation of God. We are part of the St Oscar Romero Catholic Academy Trust.
St Columba’s most recent full Ofsted inspection (published January 2025) confirmed the school remained a good school stating “Pupils are keen to come to this happy, inclusive school. This is a caring community that welcomes and celebrates diversity. The school sets high expectations for learning, behaviour and attendance. Pupils respond well to these. They come to school regularly and on time. Pupils behave with courtesy and respect. They take pride in all they do.” In terms of staffing the report states: “Staff enjoy working here and are proud of the school. They report that leaders are sensitive to their workload and well-being. Teachers appreciate the opportunities they have for professional development.” See for yourself what our students are saying: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-DriFyQL1jU.
The last Section 48 Inspection (September 2022) found the school to be outstanding and said ‘Religious education is regarded as central to the life of the school and is warmly regarded by pupils. Outcomes in RE are outstanding. Students of all abilities are challenged and supported as appropriate.’
St Columba’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Offers of employment are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS disclosure and other employment checks. The school is committed to equality and diversity in employment practice and service delivery.
Candidates need to be a practising Catholic (the Head of the RE Department is a reserved role in a Catholic school).
The successful candidate will be required to also complete the CES Application Form.
Early applications are encouraged and we reserve the right to interview ahead of the closing date.
Closing Date: Midday Wednesday 14 January 2026
Interview Date: TBC