Temporary Teacher of English - Maternity

Tunbridge Wells Girls' Grammar School, Tunbridge Wells

• Ref:KCC886-4043-140T
• Posted:13/05/2026
• Pay:Main pay scale M1 - M6
• Start Date:1.09.26
• App Close Date:05/06/2026 at 12:00
• Interviews:12.06.26

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We are looking for a dynamic and enthusiastic teacher to join the English department, which is one of the largest in the school. There are currently eight members of the English teaching staff; all are subject specialists. The post is part-time, teaching English Language and Literature to Years 7-9, across three days per week, at 0.5-0.6 FTE.

English at Tunbridge Wells Girls’ Grammar School (TWGGS) is a thriving and extremely popular subject which achieves outstanding results at all levels. At GCSE 57% of pupils in 2025 gained grades 9-7 for English Language, with 62% achieving grades 9-7 in English Literature; at A level 72% of pupils gained A*-B grades. 

There are five purpose-built English teaching rooms equipped with whiteboards and visualizers and we have an extremely well-stocked library of teaching texts in a dedicated English Office.

All English teachers are expected to cater for the needs of a large number of gifted and talented pupils, as well as pupils with a wide range of Special Educational Needs. In Years 7-9, students follow schemes of work that cover the requirements of the National Curriculum but also aim to challenge, enthuse and extend.

Over the course of each year, a Shakespeare play or modern play, a novel, a selection of poetry, short stories and a variety of non-fiction texts are studied. A creative and analytical assessment is completed within the course of each of these units of work. At GCSE, students currently follow the AQA specifications for GCSE English Language and GCSE English Literature. In the Sixth Form, pupils follow the Edexcel A Level Literature specification.

The department offers a wide range of extra-curricular activities at all key stages, enriching the three skills areas of English: speaking and listening, reading and writing. We have thriving reading groups, including participation in the Carnegie Medal shadowing scheme; a creative writing club run by sixth form pupils; and a sixth form literary appreciation society. We aim to take each year group on an educational visit: for example, Year 7 have recently visited Shakespeare’s Globe for an introductory talk and acting workshop; sixth formers have taken part in the English & Media Centre’s Poems of the Decade conference in London and visits to Charleston and Monk’s House in Sussex; and GCSE pupils have taken part in workshops at the British Library. There is also an exciting programme of other events: for example, World Book Day celebrations for Year 7 and our annual Drama Festival for Year 8.

The post arises as a result of a maternity cover and offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic candidate to join a highly successful, supportive and inspirational department, building even further on its success. We are looking for a candidate who is passionate about the subject, an outstanding classroom teacher and keen to join a department eager to inspire pupils to develop their skills to the very highest level.

Application is by completion of the TWGGS application form, accompanied by a supporting letter; this should outline your skills, strengths and experience, stating how you feel these suit you for the post. The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Friday 5 June 2026. We encourage early application and reserve the right to appoint ahead of deadline. Should you have any questions, please feel free to contact us.

Information about the school

TWGGS is a forward-looking school embracing traditional values. We aim to provide pupils with a full and balanced education for life within a caring environment. Our consistent and outstanding academic record demonstrates this but, more importantly, reflects the commitment and qualification of our teachers supported by the hard work and determination of our pupils. “The school has exceptionally high expectations of all pupils, which they consistently meet. Across the curriculum, pupils keenly engage in challenging subject content. Staff foster a love of each subject so that all pupils thrive in their phase and are well prepared for their next stages of learning. As a result, pupils enjoy school. They excel academically and flourish as well-rounded individuals.” Ofsted, September 2023 Working together towards high standards is part of the school ethos which encourages every pupil to achieve their full potential in public examinations, sports and artistic, cultural and community pursuits. The special, successful community in which these activities take place allows pupils to feel supported, happy and safe, and it is one which we feel very privileged to be a part of. We look forward to welcoming you to TWGGS.”

TWGGS is a diverse and inclusive school and we aim to recruit talented individuals from all backgrounds who add value to our pupils and who share our vision and ethos. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. As such, the successful applicant will be required to undertake a criminal record check via the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

• At least one member of each interview panel will have completed Safer Recruitment Training and understanding of child safeguarding will be asked
at every interview.

• References will be taken up at the selection stage and an enhanced DBS is required for all applicants.

• We will also carry out online searches for all shortlisted candidates related to suitability to work with children.

Job Contact Information

• Name:Mrs M Clarke
• Address:Southfield Road, Tunbridge Wells, Kent, TN4 9UJ
• Telephone: 01892 520902
• Email: michelle.clarke@twggs.kent.sch.uk