Lead Practitioner of Science

Arden is a truly exceptional school at the heart of the community and the peak of academic excellence. Situated just minutes off Junction 5 of the M42 and only three miles from the town of Solihull, visitors are astounded by our confident and articulate pupils. The warmth and trust between teachers and students is exemplary creating a unique ‘family’ atmosphere. As an innovative school always striving for better there is a constant drive to achieve maximum personal and academic potential. As part of a Multi Academy Trust there is the opportunity for exceptional training and the sharing of knowledge and ideas.

We would like to appoint a highly impactful lead practitioner of Science. The successful candidate will have excellent subject knowledge and be able to motivate students through inspirational teaching. This is an excellent opportunity for a talented teacher to take a leadership role within the Science department to work with students who are keen to learn.  The postholder will have responsibility for ensuring the consistent development and implementation of an area of the Science curriculum.  The opportunity for personal development and progression is enormous.  An active commitment to staff development through a strong and consistent focus and dialogue around teaching & learning pedagogy makes this an ideal position for candidates committed to being the best practitioner they can be.  

Applicants should be able to teach to GCSE and a specialism in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics will be considered.  The ability to teach to A Level is desirable.

The department currently has 12 full-time and four part-time members of staff.  It has a wealth of experienced teachers who all work well together. Students study either AQA Triple or Double Science (Trilogy specification) at GCSE and A Levels in Chemistry, Physics and Biology are offered.

In every way, the Science Department mirrors the aims and beliefs of the school.  All staff work hard, supported by a committed leadership team, to provide a safe and encouraging environment for learning.  Arden pupils love to acquire new knowledge and skills; our teachers relish the opportunity to deliver engaging, challenging lessons to committed pupils, supported by caring families.

The school has a proven record of success at GCSE and A Level.      

• In summer 2019, 86% of students gained grades 9-4 in five or more subjects with over 87% of students also gaining a grade 4 or above in English and Mathematics (67% gaining grade 5 or above).     
• The average progress 8 score was 0.45 and the attainment 8 score was 58.6.    
•  Almost 40% of the GCSE grades awarded were grade 7 and above and 7% were grade 9.     
• At A Level over 97 % of the 2018-19 cohort achieved A*-E with over 25% of the grades at A*A. The Average Points Score per pupil is 34.7, giving an average grade per candidate of a C+.  

Results for our 2019-20 cohort were in line with the data of the 2019 cohort. Our students continue to perform very well academically. Our job is to ensure that the results we achieve continue to improve year on year.

Children of staff who are permanently employed at Arden Academy are eligible for a ‘staff’ priority for our ‘Outstanding’ main school and Sixth Form admissions (please see Admissions on our school website for full details).

In return, we can offer you:    

• A positive and innovative learning culture supported by students, staff, parents and governors     
• Enthusiastic students who enjoy learning and engage positively in all aspects of school life     
• Access to high-quality continuing professional development and the opportunity for personal growth and development    
• A collaborative and supportive attitude amongst staff which promotes a sense of teamwork and unity
• A Senior Leadership team who is committed to promoting the best environment and outcomes for staff and students
• Use of your own personal laptop    
• Teacher Pension      
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Outstanding school catering provision

Further details are available to download below or from our school website: www.arden.solihull.sch.uk/vacancies/   

Application forms should be completed in full and attached to a letter of application. CVs will not be accepted. Please address all correspondence to Mr D Warwood, Associate Headteacher.   

Closing date: Monday 11th July 2022 (9:00am)

Interviews: Thursday 14th July 2022

Arden Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all its staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS Disclosure.