Head of Geography

Head of Geography: April 2018

The Post

We are seeking to appoint a dedicated and dynamic Head of Geography Teacher for April 2018 who can deliver outstanding lessons across all aspects of the curriculum including A-level and has the ability to lead a committed team. This is an exciting opportunity for an established and enthusiastic teacher to take the Geography department to the next level of achievement and help us to enhance our school’s reputation as an ambitious and friendly school committed to comprehensive education, which has ‘Learning for Life’ at its heart. 

Subject Details

In the Geography department we aim to be outstanding classroom practitioners that enthuse our students with a love for the subject through the teaching of interesting, inventive and effective lessons. All schemes of work are reviewed regularly so that they reflect current geographical issues and the latest teaching practices. An interest in subject development is therefore essential. Geography is a popular subject at both GCSE and A-level. We follow the AQA specification at GCSE and the Edexcel specification at A-level. Grades at GCSE are good, with on average 70% of our students gaining A* - C over the past 5 years and 28% achieving A*/A. Grades at A-level are excellent with 35% of students gaining A*/A grades and our overall attainment puts us in the top 30% of Geography departments in the country. A significant number of our A-level students progress on to higher education courses related to their studies in our subject. We offer local fieldtrips for each year group, including a 4 day residential for U6 students to complete their NEA.  The school also offers a number of cross curricular overseas trips throughout all key stages. Experience of participating in extra-curricular activities would therefore be an advantage.

Person Specification

We are looking for a well-qualified candidate who fulfils the following criteria:

• Has a passion for Geography
• Is committed, driven and enthusiastic
• Has an innovative approach to teaching and learning
• Can produce high quality SOW and lesson materials that stretch and challenge all students
• Can demonstrate and model excellence in the classroom
• Demonstrates deep commitment to the ethos of the school and the motto ‘Learning for      Life.’
• Will effectively track progress to develop student potential
• Shows fairness and consistency 
• Has high standards of personal organisation
• Has a good record of punctuality and attendance
• Possesses good inter-personal and communication skills
• Shows keen interest and ability to keep abreast of new initiatives 
• Will model and present a positive image of the school
• Has a strong willingness to contribute to the wider life of the school 

General Information

Applicants should submit a completed application online via our website or TES website. If you wish to submit any additional information along with your application please contact Miss Sarah Hewett either by e-mail at shewett@burgate.hants.sch.uk or telephone 01425 652039. Your application should reach the Headteacher by Tuesday 28 November 2017.

In addition to a tour of the school and informal discussions with key members of staff, each interviewee will be required to teach a lesson and undertake a typical Head of Department task. The selection process will culminate in a formal interview. 

Full details of the interview process will be sent to candidates with the invitation to interview.

The school will aim to give applicants sufficient notice of an interview so that personal arrangements can be made and preparation time is available. If you have not heard from us by Thursday 30 November your application to work at The Burgate has been unsuccessful on this occasion.    

The Burgate School is committed to safeguarding the welfare of its students and the successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check and other relevant pre-employment checks including satisfactory references and medical clearance. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity or religion.