ABOUT CATS COLLEGE CAMBRIDGE
CATS College offers an outstanding international pre-university educational experience to students aged 14+ from all over the world. Students live and work at the custom built Cambridge campus, studying for GCSEs, A levels and University Foundation Programmes, and preparing for admission to universities across the country and elsewhere. We pride ourselves on our approach to teaching and learning, with small class sizes and an informal atmosphere ensuring that students are treated as individuals and build great relationships with staff. We are committed to the safeguarding, health and well-being of our students.
JOB OVERVIEW
Reporting to the Assistant House Director, the House Parent is responsible for supervising students and actively engaging with them to foster a strong sense of community and support within the boarding house. This role ensures students’ well-being, safety, and personal development while creating a positive, inclusive, and structured living environment. Strong communication skills and a proactive approach are essential in building meaningful relationships with students and promoting a nurturing and supportive atmosphere.
This is a live-in position with accommodation and all meals provided as part of the package. Shifts will include days, evenings and weekends.
MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
Supervise and Support Students:
• Ensure the well-being, safety, and personal development of the students’ whilst providing day-to-day care of students in the boarding house.
• Monitor students’ behaviour and provide guidance and support when needed.
• Work with the Assistant House Directors and House Directors to monitor students in the House.
• Wake every student in the morning for breakfast and morning registration and inspect student bedrooms, filling in appropriate paperwork.
• Supervise students’ Prep hour in the evenings and Supervised Study at the weekends
• Report student illness promptly to the Health Centre in the mornings. If emergency attention is required, to use the emergency number or call an Ambulance.
• Ensure the smooth running of the boarding house generally in accordance with the student handbook
• To maintain a friendly, welcoming and happy environment
• Assist with laundry requirements of the students
• Issue keys/cards as residence requires
• To ensure a visible presence in and around the premises of the boarding house at all times when on duty.
• Ensure that students in the house adhere to the school’s rules and regulations.
• Report student disciplinary issues to the Assistant House Director.
The above outlines the key tasks and scope of the role. These are not exhaustive and may be adjusted as needed to align with the skill set of the post holder and the evolving needs of the School. For a full job description and to apply for the role, please click on the following link: CATS Global Schools | Jobs | Search here for your perfect career – Job Information | Apply for House Parent
PERSON SPECIFICATION
• Strong ability to work with, care for, and supervise young people, ensuring their well-being and personal development.
• Ability and willingness to live on-site, fully immersing in the residential community.
• High energy levels, resilience, and a good sense of humour, with the ability to maintain a positive and supportive presence.
• Confidence in spoken English, with strong communication skills to engage effectively with students and staff.
• Confidence in enforcing School rules, providing guidance and support to students while maintaining a fair and consistent approach.
• Cultural awareness and adaptability, with a willingness to work in a diverse, multi-cultural environment.
• Flexibility to work unsociable hours, including evenings and weekends, as required.
• Basic proficiency in Microsoft Word and Outlook, with the ability to manage administrative tasks effectively.
• Strong teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate with colleagues and serve as a positive role model for students.
• Ability to remain calm under pressure, handling challenges with professionalism and resilience
BENEFITS
• Accommodation provided in Central Cambridge
• All meals included
• Cycle to work Scheme
• Tech Scheme
• Car Scheme
• Free flu vaccine through Healthshield
• Free eye tests
• Financial wellbeing support via WageStream
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Group income protection
• GP24: GP Access for all
• Health Cash Plan
• Death in Service
• Long service awards
• Employee referral scheme
• Enhanced Maternity and Paternity pay
OUR COMMITMENT TO INCLUSION AND DIVERSITY
We are committed to diversity, inclusion and belonging. Building on our core values – Pioneering, Persevering, People – We pledge to deliver a series of events, guest speakers and focus groups to make CATS Global Schools and employer of choice for all.
SAFEGUARDING
CGS is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare and well-being of children and young people. As such, appointment is subject to the satisfactory completion of safer recruitment employment checks in line with KCSIE guidelines. This will include satisfactory references, enhanced DBS from the Disclosures and Barring Service and, where applicable, any international equivalent being obtained. Shortlisted candidates will be subject to online checks which may include social media.
