Bedales Prep: Head of Department: Science

We are looking to appoint an inspirational and encouraging teacher, who embraces and embodies our ethos and values, to lead and develop Science as Head of Department.

Bedales Prep School is a unique educational establishment, set in 120 acres of beautiful Hampshire countryside. Our aim is to create an environment where questioning, divergent thinking and freedom to learn from mistakes are all encouraged. Central to our success is the sense that each person is a member of our community whose voice is entitled to be heard and treated with respect. Both our staff and students expect of each other the best kind of relationships – co-operative, authentic and trustful.

Experience & Background

As an outstanding classroom practitioner, you will have a degree in a Scientific field with the vision and ability to lead the department to ensure it remains exciting, practical, engaging and relevant to the curriculum. You will oversee the planning, development and implementation of schemes of work, enabling students to attain their optimum potential in the subject. As an effective communicator, your collegiate approach will inspire colleagues to work collaboratively towards achieving these outcomes. You will be abreast of the best forms of pedagogy and practises within the Science community and be keen to innovate ways to explore those with young minds in a way which is engaging. You will have a passion for Science and be knowledgeable of developments in the Scientific world. Pupils at Bedales prep are used to using Science in practical and exciting ways, the successful applicant should be keen on this form of learning.

Teachers at Bedales Prep and Pre prep are not only excellent teachers, but also have a commitment to strong pastoral care and pupil development. 

You should also be keen to play a full and inclusive role in the wider life of our busy Prep boarding community and be able to contribute to the development of our innovative school both pastorally and through co-curricular activities, such as taking part in our annual camps week and/or experience of teaching Games would be desirable. 

Timetable

You will be timetabled to teach 28 lessons a week. The full-time teaching commitment is 30 lessons per week. 

Learning takes place throughout the day and encompasses tutoring, co-curricular activities, and support and extension sessions as well as subject lessons. Most core curriculum commitments for students are scheduled from 08:20 to 17:30 hrs on Monday to Friday, and until 12:35 hrs on Saturday. Staff who work on Saturdays receive a half day in lieu during the week. Teachers at the prep also deliver activities once a week until 19:00 hrs.

Benefits

• APTIS pension
• Funded Healthcare Cash Plan
• Salary Extras Benefits Platform
• Employee Assistance Programme
• Free meals provided during term time
• Free on-site parking
• Fee Remission for eligible staff
• Accommodation (subject to availability)
• On-site nursery (subject to availability)
• Gymnasium & swimming pool

How to Apply

For further details on how to apply, please visit the recruitment portal on the Bedales Schools website via the Apply button.

In line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidelines, CVs cannot be accepted in lieu of a fully completed application form.

Closing date: 13 May 2024

Application screening via TEAMS: w/c 13 May 2024

Interview date: 16 May 2024

Pre-Appointment Checks

All candidates will undergo a Safeguarding Suitability Interview and application for an Enhanced DBS and Barred List check and be asked to provide evidence they are eligible to work in the UK, on an ongoing basis, at the shortlist stage of the selection process.

This post is Regulated Activity.                                                                         

Safeguarding Statement

Bedales is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All candidates will undergo a Safeguarding Suitability Interview and child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers, a Prohibition from Teaching and Management Check and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).

The safeguarding responsibilities of the post include:

• safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children;
• fostering a culture of openness, safety, equality and protection;
• providing a safe and welcoming environment where both children and adults feel secure, able to talk and believe that they are being listened to;
• playing a key role in prevention of harm and an equal responsibility to act on any suspicion or disclosure that may indicate a child is at risk of harm;
• when concerned about the welfare of a pupil, acting in the best interests of the pupil.

All staff have a key role to play in identifying concerns early and in providing help for children.

The post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the school is therefore permitted to ask job applicants to declare all convictions and cautions (including those which are "spent" unless they are "protected" under the DBS filtering rules) in order to assess their suitability to work with children.