Looking for jobs in Catholic education?

Working in a Catholic School has many similarities to working at any school in the UK. Catholic schools – like any other – prioritise high-quality teaching and learning, as well as the educational and pastoral wellbeing of staff and students. Catholic schools work under a distinct ethos that underpins their educational values, actively respect all staff members regardless of their religious background, and work to promote and support the profession of teaching. Educators in Catholic schools will be required to lead students in prayers and support the ethos of the school, but the main focus is on teaching the subject you’re employed to teach, as it should be!

Yes – with the exception of certain leadership roles that require the candidate to be a practicing Catholic. Being a Catholic usually isn’t a requirement to teach or work within a Catholic school - as long as you’re willing to embrace the school’s ethos, lead pupils in prayer, and respect faith-based teachings. According to the CES’ 2023 census, just under 60% of primary staff and around 30% of secondary and sixth form staff working in Catholic schools identify as Catholic, averaging at 42% Catholic staff overall. This means a sizeable number of educators within Catholic schools or colleges either have a differing religion or no religion at all!

The key difference between other schools and Catholic schools is the distinctive faith-based ethos that underpins Catholic school teaching. Catholic schools will conduct prayers and have visible signs of their Catholic faith within the school, as well as strong religious community ties with their local Parish and Diocese. On average, Catholic schools have catchment areas that are ten times larger than other community schools, so they tend to serve a larger area of their communities compared to non-Catholic schools.

Teaching in a Catholic school means you’ll have the opportunity to work in a school environment that promotes and nurtures faith-based growth, with a unique and respectful ethos. Pastoral care of both students and staff is prioritised and altogether, teaching in a Catholic school could hugely benefit your wellbeing, widen your educational outlook, and make you feel truly supported within your career.

With the exception of certain leadership roles that require the candidate to be a practising Catholic or to have certain religious references, no particular accreditations are required to teach in a Catholic school other than ones that would apply for non-Catholic schools, such as QTS, PGCE or similar. However, the Catholic Certificate in Religious Studies (CCRS) is a desirable qualification within Catholic schools and is an accredited course available to people of all faiths and none to complete.

Catholic schools, trusts and colleges across the UK post their education jobs on eteach.com. Search for Catholic education jobs on our job board today – your next role could be a click away!