Teacher in charge of Science

Teacher in charge of Science

Westminster Abbey Choir School

(Easter 2019 or September 2019)

The closing date for applications is Wednesday 31st October 2018 

TEACHING SCIENCE AT WESTMINSTER ABBEY CHOIR SCHOOL 

We seek a teacher of science who is in sympathy with the demands of a small choir school, who shows real inspiration in the laboratory and will contribute actively to the life of the school. He or she will take sole responsibility for the teaching of science throughout the school (currently about 11 hours actual teaching per week which, with additional supervisory and administrative duties, amounts to 0.75 FTE salary). The previous science teacher had a full-time post, since it included some additional teaching and it is likely that a similar arrangement could be made for the successful applicant. If so, the application should indicate additional curriculum areas offered. The post will become vacant at Easter 2019, but we would be prepared to wait until September 2019 for the right candidate.

The current science syllabus leads towards Common Entrance papers in Physics, Chemistry and Biology at 13+ (or in some cases to academic scholarship examinations). Science has a high profile in the school and the boys gain much enjoyment from it. 

The department is well-resourced with a purpose built laboratory incorporating an interactive whiteboard, data logging equipment and all other materials and apparatus necessary to promote active pupil engagement in practical science. Opportunities exist in the surrounding area for environmental studies.

All staff contribute to the extra-curricular programme of the school, and they undertake occasional weekend duties. 

Teaching at Westminster Abbey Choir School is richly rewarding, but it is no easy option. Curriculum time is necessarily restricted on account of the boys’ musical commitments, and it is important that staff are very well organised in order to make best possible use of the time available. Flexibility is essential, since it is not uncommon for the timetable to be adapted at short notice to accommodate special musical events or rehearsals. 

Choristers tend to be sparky individuals who benefit from demanding, yet sympathetic academic teaching. Staff need to be committed to the ethos of a choir school and it is important that they appreciate the very considerable demands made upon the choristers in their charge.

This is an exciting opportunity which could suit an experienced teacher seeking once again to devote their attention to teaching, someone seeking a first step towards a senior post in a larger school, or indeed a newly qualified teacher.