Working at BFS
Bedford Free School is different so working at Bedford Free School is very different!
We expect our staff to be aligned with our values of respect, honesty and high expectations. These really do drive what we do at BFS.
We also expect our pupils and staff to ‘go the extra mile’. We are unashamedly in favour of hard work. As a result, our staff are very special, and our pupils get a great deal.
At the same time, we have tried to strip away some things that are common in many schools, that we think take up too much time. This particularly relates to teaching staff, but we think this makes working at BFS enticing and exciting.
For example, we have:
- a reasonable feedback policy that does not require the marking of books, nor the evidencing of feedback beyond the pupils getting better at the subject
- a reasonable assessment policy that respects subject-specialism – 2 formal assessments per year
- no full parental written reports (two parents evenings per year group instead)
- no requirement for formal written lesson plans
- plans and resources prepared at the start of term
- impeccable pupil behaviour, management of which is led by the Senior Leadership Team and not dependent on individuals
- complete support over any behavioural issues via the systems at BFS
- very high SLT presence in a supportive atmosphere
- same-day, centralised ‘corrections’ for behavioural issues
- autonomy over workload – no micromanagement of your time
- extensive CPD opportunities via our relationships with some of the best Trusts in the country, and via our Director of Education
- a curricular-focussed professional learning offer
The growth of our Trust is also definitely going to mean enhanced career opportunities.
Nothing can match a visit, and we welcome visits from prospective colleagues, even if no vacancy is currently advertised. Please contact us to arrange a tour and a chat with the Head of School or Executive Principal.
If you know you want to work at Bedford Free School or Advantage Schools, but no post is currently advertised which suits you, please fill in this form and we will keep you informed!
Small school, big curriculum, infinite possibilities.
We are a small school, where teachers and students know and look out for each other. Safeguarding children enrolled at the School is of paramount importance, and we are fully committed to the protection and safe care of our students. Any successful applicants will be required to undertake appropriate checks as well as providing proof of a right to work in the UK.
No CVs please apply using our application form.
