Teacher of English

An exciting opportunity has arisen to join one of the largest and most successful English departments in Scotland at this prestigious 5 – 18 HMC school of 1350 pupils. Dollar Academy is set in a beautiful central location, about 40 minutes north of Edinburgh.

Candidates should have a passion for literature and the ability to teach up to Advanced Higher, together with a strong commitment to developing pupils’ enjoyment of, and engagement with, the wider world of English. All members of the department contribute to the rich cultural life of the Academy through drama productions, creative writing, debating, journalism, Yearbook and Magazine publications, lunchtime readings and visiting speakers; we look to create a learning environment where strengths are built on and difficulties overcome.

English is taught to the majority of pupils up to Higher level. Up to 40 Form VI pupils choose to take English at Advanced Higher and many go on to read English at University. At all levels in the classroom, literature is central – English and Scottish primarily, but also the literature of the Commonwealth, the Americas, and texts in translation. There is a strong emphasis on encouraging our pupils to develop their curiosity, creativity and intellectual excitement, whatever their level of ability.

There are twelve teachers in the department which is housed in the main Playfair building at the heart of the school. We recognise the importance of a collaborative approach and shared focus, while also valuing the freedom and flexibility which allows individual teachers to pursue their own enthusiasms in order to make teaching stimulating and learning dynamic. Classrooms are attractive and well resourced; we benefit from excellent library and IT facilities and are constantly extending our book and audio-visual resources. Close links with the Support for Learning Department and the Junior School also promote our pupils’ learning experiences.

The Academy has a rich co-curricular programme in which all members of staff are expected to participate.