Rikkyo School in England is a distinctive bi-lingual, bi-cultural boarding school set in the beautiful countryside of West Sussex. Designed specifically for Japanese pupils, the School offers a powerful blend of academic rigour and international opportunity, enabling students to thrive confidently in both Japanese and British contexts. Alongside the Japanese national curriculum and GCSE Science, Rikkyo provides a pre-medical pathway, elite equestrian coaching, and a carefully structured programme of English language development and British cultural experience. With both full and weekly boarding for boys and girls aged 10–18, Rikkyo combines high academic expectations, exceptional pastoral care and a strong sense of community, preparing pupils to succeed at leading universities and beyond..
Rikkyo School is seeking a Houseparent to take responsibility for Garden House, the Girls’ Boarding House, from September 2026. Garden House is home to around 65 girls and plays a central role in supporting girls’ wellbeing, personal development and sense of belonging within the School.
The Houseparent has overall responsibility for the day-to-day running of Garden House and for creating a safe, calm and supportive home-from-home environment. This includes overseeing routines, setting clear expectations, and ensuring that pupils are well cared for both practically and emotionally.
This is a non-teaching, fully pastoral role, ideal for someone who wishes to focus on boarding life and pupil wellbeing, or for those seeking valuable experience in education and pastoral leadership prior to undertaking a PGCE. The successful applicant will be confident, organised and able to make sound day-to-day decisions, but above all must be kind, patient and genuinely caring towards young people.
Garden House is a place where pupils often develop independence and confidence while living away from home in a different country and culture. Sensitivity to adolescent needs and an understanding of the pastoral requirements of girls is essential. Cultural awareness and a willingness to engage with and learn from Japanese customs and expectations are also very important aspects of the role.
The position is residential, and the successful candidate is expected to live in accommodation provided within or adjacent to the Boarding House during term time. The accommodation is a well-appointed studio flat comprising a large bedroom/sitting area, kitchenette and bathroom.
The Boarding Houses operate on an A/B duty rota to support staff wellbeing. The Houseparent is expected to work weekday duties (16.00–08.00) and alternate weekends (Friday 16.00 to Monday 08.00). There are additional responsibilities at the start and end of each term, and for key events, including supporting pupils arriving to and departing from the School on international flights.
Please note that Rikkyo School follows the Japanese academic calendar, and term dates may differ from those of UK schools. A School calendar is available on request.
Please complete an application form and send to Siân Macey, HR Officer, at sianmacey@rikkyo.co.uk.
Rikkyo School in England is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
