Deputy Curriculum Leader for Science

We are looking to appoint an additional Deputy Curriculum Leader for Science who has the vision and ambition to support the Curriculum leader and other Deputy Curriculum Leader in leading a talented and successful department. You will have excellent subject knowledge and be able to motivate students through inspirational, personalised teaching. This is an excellent opportunity for; 

• A talented teacher to join a thriving school 
• To work with students who are committed to their learning and passionate about their own development
• To further develop an already high functioning department of 16 skilled teachers
• To work to raise the outcomes for all pupils by inspiring and motivating students and staff alike

The outcomes below are excellent and demonstrate the success and engagement in Science across key stage 4 and Key stage 5. 

• A large uptake of pupils (approximately 45%) opt for single sciences at GCSE achieving an average grade of over 6.5
• Average value added for pupils at KS4 is +0.2 
• An increasing uptake at A level; 81 students in Year 13 and 106 students in Year 12 studying either Biology, Chemistry or Physics with two or three teaching groups for each subject in each year group
• Core Maths is offered to students in Year 12; many choose to take it in order to support their Science A Level. 

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 students love to acquire new knowledge and skills.  Our teachers relish the opportunity to deliver engaging, challenging lessons to committed students, supported by caring families.

The uptake of Sciences at GCSE and all three A Levels is extremely high.  A specialism in either Biology, Chemistry or Physics will be considered and the ability to teach A Level in one of these disciplines is essential.  At the heart of the reason for our excellent recruitment to the subject is our commitment to delivering engaging learning across all key stages. You will not only join this team but will strategically lead to further enhance an already high performing department

The department currently has twelve 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 Level’s in Chemistry, Physics and Biology are offered.

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+.  

Our results for our 2019-20 cohort are 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.

The opportunity for personal development and progression at Arden 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. Middle leader development continues to be a core focus of our school and our Trust. 

We run a highly regarded middle leader development training programme across the trust where our Middle leaders work with senior leaders from across the trust and Middle leader colleagues in all of our schools to collaborate, consider aspects of leadership, and share best practice. Excellent line management ensures this position is well supported and ensuring that Middle leaders are given every opportunity to develop and showcase their drive and leadership skills.

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).

Opportunities don’t arise very often to teach at a school like Arden and due to the success of our professional development programmes and a commitment to developing our staff, it is rare for leadership positions of this type to become available.  

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
• Commitment to Middle Leader Development through:

1. Middle Leader cross trust training
2. Middle Leader progress meetings with Associate Head teacher and Executive Head teacher
3. Middle Leader support through highly effective SLT Line Manager

• 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

For further details and to apply, please visit our school website via the Apply button.

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 14th February 2022 (9:00am)

Interview Date: Friday 18th February 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.