Houseparent / Housemother

Job Purpose

A houseparent at Aiglon College holds a pivotal leadership role within our dynamic international boarding community. This position involves the holistic care, welfare, and character development of students residing in one of our ten boarding houses. Houseparents are responsible for leading a dedicated team, fostering an inclusive and positive environment, and inspiring young people while upholding the school’s values and policies. Additionally, houseparents engage actively in school life and bear teaching responsibilities.

The houseparent resides on campus in a family-friendly apartment with dedicated living and dining areas, accessible through the house's main entrance.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

This overview provides insight into the responsibilities associated with this role, although it is not exhaustive. Houseparents at Aiglon must be flexible and adaptable to effectively meet the expectations outlined in the Aiglon College contract of employment, which adheres to the school's policies and Guiding Principles under the direction of the School Director.

Student Welfare and Development

• Provide a safe and supportive environment in the boarding house, promoting student well-being, academic progress, character development, and personal growth.
• Maintain high standards of student behaviour through encouragement, rewards, and consistent application of expectations.
• Support and guide student academic and character development by collaborating with assistant heads, teachers, tutors, and key departments throughout the school.
• Monitor and support student health and well-being in partnership with responsible teams.
• Coordinate and actively lead house events, expeditions, parent hospitality, and entertainment.
• Ensure that all boarding students feel included in a vibrant, diverse community.

Leadership and Team Management

• Lead and manage the house team, which includes an assistant houseparent (residential), house assistant (non-residential), and tutors for effective collaboration and smooth house operations.
• Develop team rotas, assign duties, and provide continuous guidance and support.
• Foster leadership among house prefects, encouraging their growth and active contributions to the house community.
• Ensure compliance with all house protocols and emergency procedures by the students and house team.

Communication and Collaboration

• Serve as the primary contact for parents and guardians, maintaining regular and professional communication regarding their child’s well-being and progress.
• Actively liaise with school leadership, including the Director of Boarding, Deputy School Directors, and the Designated Safeguarding Lead to foster a positive house environment.
• Address any concerns in accordance with school policies and promptly manage incidents as they arise.
• Participate in regular staff and houseparent meetings and contribute to school-wide initiatives.

Operational Management

• Oversee the daily operations of the house, ensuring cleanliness, safety, and order in collaboration with the operations team and domestic staff.
• Assist students in managing their schedules, including weekend arrangements, travel plans, and house activities.
• Play a key role at the start and end of terms to facilitate student arrivals and departures.
• Maintain accurate records, including attendance and medications.
• Manage house finances in line with school policies.
• Write and prepare termly student reports and university recommendations.

Teaching Responsibilities

• Teach an average of 14 periods per week, ensuring high-quality teaching and exam preparation while adhering to departmental policies.
• Embody the standards set forth in the Aiglon Teacher Profile.
• Contribute to the academic life of the school by supervising IB Extended Essays or invigilating examinations as required.

School Responsibilities

As a member of the Aiglon College community, all staff are expected to uphold the School’s ethos, Guiding Principles, and policies. These responsibilities reflect the professional standards required of all staff and contribute to the overall function and success of the school community.

Collaboration and Community Engagement

• Actively participate in staff meetings, training sessions, and professional development initiatives.
• Attend Meditation/Assembly at least two mornings per week and prepare to deliver a Meditation at least once per term.
• Contribute to the school’s events, activities, and expeditions programmes.
• Undertake pastoral and other duties as prescribed within school policies.
• Engage with and support colleagues, fostering a positive and collegial working environment.

Professional Conduct

• Maintain high standards of punctuality, communication, reliability, integrity, and appearance, setting a positive example for students and colleagues.
• Treat all members of the school community with fairness, respect, and professionalism.
• Engage in self-reflection and professional development, striving for continuous improvement.
• Uphold the school’s health and safety standards, proactively addressing any concerns.

Other Tasks and Responsibilities

• Understand and implement all school policies and procedures, particularly those relating to safeguarding children and young people.
• Undertake any other tasks reasonably requested by the Director of Boarding to assist in the smooth operation of the house team.
• Embrace the School’s Guiding Principles and consistently uphold the ethos of the School.

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.