Deputy Head of Department – Science

Applications will be considered on a rolling basis and we reserve the right to recruit before the deadline. 

Dunottar is a co-educational school for pupils aged 11-18 set in extensive grounds of 15 acres on the outskirts of Reigate. Under the Headship of Mark Tottman, the school is on a very exciting journey having recently won the prestigious Education Business Award for the ‘Outstanding Progress – UK Independent Schools’ category 2019. Dunottar is experiencing fast growth in pupil numbers and to accommodate this expansion, we have recently completed a £6.6 million capital development programme to build a new Sixth Form Centre and Assembly Hall/Performing Arts Centre. 

 Dunottar is a great place to work, with a team of highly professional and committed teachers and support staff.  We incorporate best practice from independent schools and academies right across the United Learning Group, whilst retaining our unique, friendly ethos in Reigate where pupils are nurtured to make significant personal progress at the same time as achieving excellent academic results.  United Learning is an outstanding organisation which prides itself on providing a working and learning environment which encourages ‘the best in everyone’.  You will join a network of staff belonging to 90 other schools, with opportunities to engage with fellow professionals which far exceed what one school could achieve on its own.  Personal development and career opportunities are excellent. They will also play an active role in the extensive and varied co-curricular program, both during the working week and some weekends. 

 Overview 

We are looking for a well-qualified and suitably experienced teacher to be the second in charge of the Science Department at our innovative and growing school. The role will support the Head of Department and coherence and consistency across the distinct individual sciences by leading and inspiring colleagues within the Science Department.  Additionally, the role promotes science and STEM within the school community and beyond, ensuring that our pupils have an exciting, innovative and forward-looking provision. 

 Dunottar has a well-established Science department.  All science subjects are taught separately in Years 7-11.  From Year 9, pupils commence their Science GCSEs taking AQA science in Biology, Chemistry and Physics or Combined Science.  At A level, Biology, Chemistry and Physics are taught using a variety of exam boards.   

The Science department has good facilities with six spacious, well-equipped laboratories and two preparation rooms.  There are weekly science clubs during lunchtimes and after school, as well as other enrichment opportunities for pupils.  The successful candidate will be expected to make a contribution to these initiatives as well as to the varied and exciting co-curricular programme.  

We are seeking to appoint a high calibre and enthusiastic second in charge of Science to join this successful and friendly department.  We are looking for someone with an ability to stimulate curiosity and interest Science and who is prepared to give full commitment to the aims and ethos of the Science Department and to Dunottar School.   

A strong ability to collaborate with colleagues in raising the profile of Science within the School is essential. 

Second in Charge Department Responsibilities 

Dunottar School values the highest level of professionalism in its staff.  It is expected that all staff will display a high level of knowledge and understanding of their subject area and communicate this enthusiastically.  The successful candidate should have high expectations of the members of the department and the students being taught within the department.  They will be responsible for a specific area of Science e.g. a key stage or a subject area which will be decided in conjunction with the Head of Science.  All staff members have a responsibility to ensure that pupils being taught within the department encounter a stimulating and positive learning environment. All staff should inspire confidence and trust.