Boarding at RAAS
The boarding provision at RAAS defines the nature of the school and makes an exceptional contribution to the overall pastoral care and personal development of all our students. We exist to give our children a distinctly different start in life, preparing them for the world with hope, optimism, compassion and empathy. Boarding Houses support the overall values of the school, of ambition, courage, integrity and respect.
We are a co-educational, non-selective state boarding school for students aged 7–18. Alongside flexi boarders from the local area, we have a vibrant community of around 300 full boarders who are actively engaged in a wide range of after-school and weekend activities and trips.
In June 2025 Ofsted judged the overall experiences and progress of students in our school as Outstanding, highlighting that “Students are making significant progress”, with the report stating that “Students are supported through a culture of high expectations, helping them to achieve the best they can”.
The Role
We are seeking an enthusiastic and committed individual to join one of our Boarding Houses as a Non-teaching Head of House in our state co-educational boarding school.
The House Parents are required to work closely with the Director and Deputy Director of Boarding and will be expected to:
- Work with all the Boarding Team and Senior Leadership Team to ensure that the National Minimum Standards for boarding schools are fully met in accordance with inspection regulations.
- Assist with the health and safety of staff, boarders and visitors to the Boarding House in accordance with the School’s Health and Safety Policy.
- Assist with the monitoring and reviewing of routines in the Boarding House.
- Liaise with the Health Centre with regard to boarders’ medical requirements and to encourage boarders in adopting a healthy lifestyle.
- Be available to assist in the care and supervision of boarders who are unwell.
- Liaise with the school to ensure that every boarding pupil fulfils their academic potential and inform staff of any issues which relate to or impact upon a boarder’s performance in school.
- Assist in the implementation of a fair and clearly understood system of sanctions, as necessary, in relation to matters of discipline, informing a member of the Senior Leadership Team of any serious misdemeanours in relation to bullying, substance misuse or misconduct.
- Communicate with parents/guardians to ensure they are kept fully informed about their child’s progress and welfare and ensure that any relevant information regarding these areas are shared with those who need to know.
- Contribute to and ensure that the aims and objectives of the School are implemented.
- Be responsible for the care and welfare of the boarders’ in the Boarding House and to engender a feeling of respect and trust between boarders and the staff working in the Boarding House.
- Promote self-management skills, compassion, open-mindedness, encourage good manners and behaviour, whilst dealing with infringements in a firm but caring manner.
- Assist in a variety of outings and activities for boarders in the evenings and at the weekends.
- Support the Co-Curricular and Boarders trips programme provision at school.
We are seeking a Head of House who:
- Demonstrates a strong commitment to delivering outstanding boarding provision within a state school setting
- Provides inspiring, empathetic leadership and high-quality pastoral care, supporting the wellbeing and development of all students
- Brings proven leadership experience within an educational or boarding environment, with the ability to motivate and manage a team effectively
- Builds positive relationships with students, staff, and families, contributing to a strong and collaborative school community
- Communicates confidently and effectively, with excellent interpersonal, organisational, and problem-solving skills
- Is adaptable, resilient, and able to manage the varied and fast-paced nature of boarding house life
- Shows initiative, remains reflective in practice, and is committed to ongoing professional development
- Demonstrates a genuine passion for working with young people and promoting their wellbeing in a residential setting
- Champions diversity, inclusion, and the development of a positive and supportive boarding culture
- Is confident in responding to student health and wellbeing needs, including holding (or being willing to obtain) a recognised first aid qualification
- Strong and organisational skills
Desirable
- Holds current Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) training, or is willing to undertake this, and consistently upholds the highest standards of safeguarding and student welfare.
- Completion of BSA courses or willingness to undertake boarding related courses
- Ability to operate a minibus or willingness to learn
To apply for this role or for more details please refer to school website: https://www.raa-school.co.uk/join-us/job-vacancies/
Safeguarding Information
The Royal Alexandra and Albert School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post if successful, including an Enhanced DBS check. Staff must be aware of and comply with policies and procedures relating to child protection, health and safety regulations, security and confidentiality, reporting all concerns as appropriate. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.
At The Royal Alexandra and Albert School we strive to be inclusive and value the positive impact of diversity and equality within our school. We welcome applications from all backgrounds, and particularly encourage those from ethnic minority groups who reflect the diversity, and varied cultural and ethnic backgrounds, of our student community / boarding community.
