Independent Schools Cultural Alliance - ISCA – Summer Programs in the UK

Join the ISCA Team

Join the ISCA Team – Summer 2027

Apply Now – ISCA Team 2027 Application Form

Have you ever considered a career in teaching? Do you enjoy travel, working with young people, or leading activities such as sport, drama or the arts?

An ISCA programme offers a unique opportunity to work in a vibrant international community. Staff take on meaningful responsibility, gain valuable experience working with students aged 12 to 15, and enjoy an unforgettable summer exploring some of Britain’s most historic locations.

Many members of our team return year after year – a reflection of the unique and rewarding environment that defines ISCA.

We invite you to learn more about the programme and welcome your application to join us in July 2027.

2027 Tours & Activities Staff

ISCA staff help host school groups from the USA, Japan and South America, guiding them through a three-week programme exploring the most important historic and cultural sites in southern England.

The programme is based at Cranleigh School, a beautiful British boarding school campus, which serves as our home throughout the summer.

During the programme:

  • Students explore major historic landmarks across southern England
  • Every third day is spent on campus
  • On-campus days include British sports such as cricket, rugby and netball, alongside activities including drama, art and dance and our brand-new ISCA Enrichment Programmes

These activities play an important role in encouraging cultural exchange and helping students build friendships across nationalities.

Most importantly, you will work as part of a team of over 30 teachers from around the world, gaining international experience and building connections that often lead to future travel and professional opportunities.

Job Overview

During the three-week programme, ISCA staff take on a variety of roles.

Off-campus days

  • Leading and supervising tours of historic sites and cities
  • Sharing historical and cultural context with students
  • Ensuring the safety and engagement of students during visits

On-campus days

  • Leading sports, arts and activity sessions
  • Supporting international interaction through group activities
  • Helping create a positive and energetic community environment

All staff should feel comfortable working with students aged 12-15. Previous experience with this age group is desirable but not essential.

ISCA staff share a common goal: helping students develop a meaningful understanding of British history and culture through both the places we visit and the activities we deliver.

Pastoral Responsibilities

ISCA staff also play an important pastoral role within the boarding houses.

Each programme has four boarding houses, with at least three staff members assigned to each house. Staff are responsible for supervising students on their floor and ensuring a safe and supportive environment.

Responsibilities include:

  • Ensuring students are in their rooms at lights out
  • Helping students wake up and prepare for the day
  • Supporting students who may feel homesick
  • Monitoring general wellbeing and behaviour

Staff communicate any concerns with their Head of House, International Chaperone, or the Programme Director, and support the wider team in maintaining a positive residential environment.

Training and Preparation

Before the programme begins, ISCA staff participate in online training sessions designed to help prepare for the summer.

These sessions provide the opportunity to:

  • Meet fellow staff members
  • Learn about the programme structure
  • Prepare activities and tours
  • Ask questions and receive guidance from experienced team members

A Global Teaching Team

ISCA is proudly run by teachers, for teachers.

We understand that while school trips are incredibly valuable for students, they can also require significant planning and organisation. Our programme is designed to support teachers throughout the experience so they can focus on what matters most: engaging students and enjoying the journey.

Two groups of supervising adults support the programme:

International Chaperones
Teachers who travel with their students from their home country and act in loco parentis.

ISCA Staff
Teachers who run the programme itself, organising tours, delivering activities, and supervising the boarding houses.

Together they create a safe, enriching and memorable experience for all students.

The ISCA Academy

Each year we are delighted to welcome former ISCA students back to the programme as part of the ISCA Academy.

Working under the supervision of experienced faculty members, this programme allows alumni to gain valuable leadership and teaching experience while contributing to the community that first inspired them.

Insurance and Financial Protection

ISCA carries Public Liability and Employer’s Liability insurance.

We are also a member of Protected Trust Services (PTS). This ensures that all parent funds are held in a protected trust account, safeguarding payments in the unlikely event of company or supplier failure.

Useful information

What is the ISCA Programme?
More information

Below are examples of our policies. We will publish up to date policies in May 2027.

Legal Information
Apply now - Download the Application Form for the Tours and Activities Role ISCA Tours and Activities Staff Job Description Apply now - Download the Application Form for the ISCA Academy Role ISCA Academy Role Description