Boarding Housemaster

THE ROYAL SCHOOL HOUSE, RAPHOE, LIFFORD, CO. DONEGAL F93 T298 Under the Patronage of the Donegal Protestant Board of Education Seeks to appoint a Resident Housemaster for the Royal School House from September 2024 Person Specification Job Title: Resident Housemaster Employer: Donegal Protestant Board of Education Responsible to: The Honorary Warden through the Head of Boarding The School: The Royal and Prior Comprehensive School opened in September 1971 the result of an amalgamation between two of the countys oldest secondary schools: the Royal School Raphoe and the Prior Endowed School, Lifford. The Royal School was established by charter of James I in 1608 as part of the Ulster Royal Schools and the Prior School which was founded in 1880 by the generosity of Miss Eleanor Prior of Ballindrait. The Royal and Prior Comprehensive School is a co-educational school for 12 to 18 years olds. There are 600 pupils in the School, 40 of which are boarders. All the students follow the Junior Certificate curriculum in their first 3 years and the Leaving Certificate Curriculum in their final 2 years. There is an optional Transition Year programme which on average involves 50% of the year group. There are over 70 members of staff involved in all aspects of the life of the school from the office to the classroom to the canteen. The school occupies a well maintained 30 acre site on the Derry Road just outside the town of Raphoe. The Royal School House, located behind St Eunans Cathedral in the town, is used as accommodation for the boarders. The Post The post of Housemaster is a weekly residential position within the Royal School House. The Housemaster will have responsibility for the health, welfare and general progress of the male boarders. Enthusiasm, skill and professionalism are key attributes to this pastoral role. The role complements that of the Head of Boarding (HOB), who is the person with overall responsibility for all the Boarders throughout their time at the Royal School House. The relationship between the Housemaster and the boarders should be defined by mutual respect; trust and discretion are vital qualities within this relationship. Pupils should find the Housemaster someone to whom they can look for support, advice, encouragement and understanding. The post may be either teaching or non-teaching. If applying as a teacher, there may be the opportunity for hours of employment within the school. Any hours available at school are to be undertaken in addition to the responsibilities required at the Royal School House. Applicants should click apply now to receive a copy of job description and application form. Essential Criteria: A good standard of education preferably to degree level. Comparable success and work experience with young people may be considered appropriate in lieu of a degree requirement. Evidence of working with young people and making a positive contribution to their social, educational and personal development. An understanding of Child Protection policy and procedures. Commitment to the philosophy of a boarding community and a working style consistent with unsociable hours. Have good communication skills both oral and written, and be able to communicate clearly with pupils, colleagues and parents. Well-developed planning and organising skills, including effective time management. A commitment to be resident in the boarding department (accommodation provided) as per the duties required. A good record of attendance and health and the ability to cope effectively with the demands of the post. Experience of and proficiency in using ICT, especially Microsoft Office applications and email. Desirable criteria Preference may be given to applicants who satisfy some or all of the following criteria. A degree level qualification in teaching or similar OR a professional qualification in social care, youth work or similar OR a minimum of three years experience working in a supervisory capacity within a residential environment. Experience of working with young people in a residential youth work or social care role in the last 3 years. Experience of working with young people within a boarding school environment in the last 3 years. Display a significant interest in extra-curricular activities. Experience of organising events and activities for young people. A clean, full driving licence and access to a car for work purposes. Appointment will be subject to references and to vetting by An Garda Sochna. Applications: Please contact the school principal for full application form All completed applications must be sent by post to The Honorary Warden, The Royal School House, Raphoe, Lifford, Co. Donegal, F93 T298. Applications by email will not be considered. Applications should be received by 12 Noon on Friday 17th May 2024. Application Forms received after the closing time will not be considered. Applicants should state clearly on their Application Form how they meet the criteria. In order to comply with Child Safeguarding regulations, shortlisted applicants should bring a means of photographic identification, such as a passport or driving licence, to the interview. Skills: House master Boarding housemaster resident housemaster