Head of Department Biology and Science

The College enjoys a strong local reputation and is the institution of choice for post 16 academic and classroom based vocational learning in the area: 

The departmental leader post is a key one for the College. The College is the only provider of post-16 advanced (level 3) science in the Scarborough area. Laboratories are well-equipped, and have recently been modernised, and the staff team has considerable enthusiasm, experience and expertise, and are well supported by laboratory technicians.  There are many departmental strengths and the College recruits a high proportion of exceptionally gifted young scientists. The department is also responding well to a range of students of science with different learning needs and adapting learning materials and teaching methods to meet student needs.

Because of the skill-set within the existing team, it is essential that the successful applicant can teach Biology although there may be some opportunity to teach other subjects.

A level Biology results have been consistently good over the last three years with close to 100% pass rate and around 50% A*-B grades each year with very high value added – ALPS grade 3 (Good).  AS Biology results are close to the high sixth form national average.

A level Chemistry results are consistently excellent, with high pass rates and over 50% of students regularly achieving A*-B grades (ALPS grade 2).  In AS Chemistry the results are less consistent than at A2 and there is work to be done improving the numbers of students progressing from AS to A2

The BTEC Applied Science course is a real strength of the department.  Whilst a relatively new addition to the portfolio, achievement on the course is outstanding with a large proportion of students achieving Distinction or starred-Distinction in their qualification.  The value added score supports this with an ALPS grade 3 (excellent).  Students also achieve well when resitting at level 2 with around 50% of them regularly achieving a C grade in their GCSE exams.

It is important that the post holder is hard-working and ambitious, determined to bring the best out of our students. You will need strong personal skills to challenge, develop and inspire the team of talented and experienced professionals you will lead. You can expect the role to be demanding but professionally satisfying, within a supportive College committed to excellence in its service.