Teacher of Religious Education (RE & Philosophy)

Location: Hackney

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

School Type: Secondary School & Sixth Form (Co-educational)

An Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ secondary school situated in the culturally vibrant and diverse London Borough of Hackney is seeking an articulate, thoughtful, and inspiring Teacher of Religious Education to join their dynamic Humanities & Philosophy department. This is an exceptional opportunity for an ambitious educator, whether an experienced practitioner seeking a high-performing inner-London academic environment or a talented Early Career Teacher (ECT), to foster ethical inquiry, theological understanding, and philosophical debate across an engaged student body.

About the Role

As a Teacher of RE, you will guide students through the study of major world religions, philosophical traditions, non-religious worldviews, and contemporary ethical dilemmas. Teaching across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE Religious Studies), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level Religious Studies / Philosophy & Ethics), you will create an open, intellectually rigorous classroom atmosphere where pupils learn to critique complex worldviews, evaluate moral frameworks, and articulate balanced arguments with confidence.

• Start Date: Immediate or upcoming term

• Environment: A flagship inner-London secondary school celebrated for high academic standards, strong social mobility, and an inclusive, respectful ethos

• Culture: A collaborative, intellectually stimulating working environment supported by experienced humanities leads, rich digital resources, and an encouraging leadership team

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver creative, high-impact RE and Philosophy lessons across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5 that build deep theological knowledge, ethical reasoning, and essay-writing fluency.

• Prepare students thoroughly for national GCSE and A-Level examinations using data-driven tracking, regular feedback routines, and targeted exam technique guidance.

• Embed diverse religious, philosophical, and secular perspectives into the curriculum to promote cultural literacy, mutual respect, and critical empathy.

• Assess, track, and evaluate student academic progress, delivering actionable interventions to stretch high attainers while building confidence in developing thinkers.

• Contribute to departmental enrichment initiatives, such as philosophy clubs, ethics debates, visits to local places of worship, and university preparation masterclasses.

Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent recognized teaching credential.

• A strong academic degree in Religious Studies, Theology, Philosophy, Ethics, or a closely related discipline.

• Proven track record or demonstrated capability of delivering outstanding RE/RS teaching across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 (KS5/A-Level experience is highly desirable).

• Thorough knowledge of national Religious Studies specifications and examination board requirements (e.g., AQA, Edexcel, OCR).

• Exceptional classroom presence, strong questioning techniques, and an infectious passion for philosophical and theological inquiry.

Salary & Benefits

• Pay Scale: Inner London MPS/UPS pay scale (commensurate with experience), with potential TLR opportunities available for key stage coordination or cross-curricular SMSC/ethics leadership.

• Comprehensive continuous professional development (CPD), structured mentoring programmes, and clear pathways for rapid career advancement in an Outstanding school environment.

How to Apply

If you are an ambitious, creative, and inspiring RE specialist ready to make a lasting impact at an Outstanding school in Hackney, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application as soon as possible for consideration.