Head of KS3 Science

Permanent, full time

Salary: According to experience + TLR 2

To start: September 2023

The Bulmershe School are looking to employ an enthusiastic and talented teacher of science to join our friendly department. Our ideal candidate would be able to motivate and inspire students to achieve their full potential and have an energetic “can do” attitude. As Head of KS3 this position could attract additional allowances. Candidates wishing to apply should have a passion for their subject and the ability to teach to GCSE and Advanced level. You should be confident and keen for career progression with a proven record of excellent standards.

Alongside the Head of Department, the Head of KS3 Science is directly responsible for the quality of Teaching and Learning in Years 7, 8, and 9. Our diverse and inclusive school means that we can offer you a varied, vibrant and rewarding working environment. Our teaching staff are supported by a dedicated and experienced team and as a department we have regular opportunities to share best practice and undertake development training.

Specific duties and responsibilities

• Along with members of the Science TLR Team to develop, implement and evaluate strategically the vision for all scientific disciplines
• Contribute to the Science Department Improvement Plan
• Lead on the development of the KS3 long-term and medium-term plans
• Evaluate the performance of KS3 Sciences
• Develop and implement accurate and robust assessments and monitoring systems at KS3 to support student learning and progress
• Use allocated department meeting time effectively to support the delivery of KS3 Science
• Support teachers in working effectively with KS3 Science students or classes
• To monitor, through lesson observations/ drop-ins and learning walks, the quality of Teaching and Learning and, where appropriate, to share good practice
• To support the Teaching and Learning of students through the organisation and structure of KS3 Science Teaching
• Monitor the quality of written AfL, marking, and feedback and support teaching staff in embedding good practice into their teaching to secure student progress
• Use the tracking of students to identify underachievement and support Science teachers to put in place actions to improve the achievement of those students; as well as guide further interventions
• Identify and support specific groups of students, particularly Highly Able, Pupil Premium, and SEN groups
• Oversee and advise on home learning tasks (providing these if necessary), and monitor the quality of the tasks set
• Regular and proactive communication with parents, students, teachers and leadership
• Support any KS3 lessons which require cover or planning in the absence of specialist teaching staff
• Report regularly to the Head of Department on the progress and assessment data for KS3 Science

The ideal candidate will

• be able to motivate and inspire students to achieve their full potential
• be someone who has, or aspires to have, a measurable impact as an individual teacher and throughout the school
• be committed to the happiness and wellbeing of everyone at the school
• be responsible for the learning and achievement of all students in your classes, ensuring equality of opportunity for all
• be responsible and accountable for achieving the highest possible standards in work and conduct
• treat students with dignity, building relationships rooted in mutual respect, and at all times observing proper boundaries appropriate to a teacher’s professional position
• work proactively and effectively in collaboration and partnership with learners, parents/carers, governors, other staff and external agencies in the best interests of students
• act within the statutory frameworks, which set out their professional duties and responsibilities and in line with the duties outlined in the current School Teachers Pay and Conditions Document and Teacher Standards
• take responsibility for promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young people within the school

Why join The Bulmershe School

The Bulmershe School is a heavily oversubscribed school which sits at the heart of the community. We are a mixed local authority, 11-18 school of approximately 1,400 students, who come from diverse backgrounds and cultures. We work closely with our parents, partners and feeder school to achieve the best outcomes for all of our students. We were rated as ‘Good’ in our last OFSTED report and are aiming for Outstanding.

We believe that The Bulmershe is a school where you can really make a difference. To find out more about The Bulmershe School and this specific opportunity, please take a look at the attached vacancy pack. We look forward to your application.

How to Apply

1. If you’d like to find out more about role, the school, or to talk to us about options for flexible working – call: 0118 935 3353 to arrange to meet us for coffee and a chat
2. Ready to apply? Please complete our application form (CVs will not be accepted)
3. Email your application and equal opportunities form to the Assistant School Business Manager, Ms Bagley: vbagley@bulmershe.wokingham.sch.uk

The Bulmershe School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Appointments are subject to enhanced DBS clearance and satisfactory employment references. Note: This job description is not your contract of employment or any part of it. It has been prepared only for the purpose of school organisation and may change either as your contract changes or as the organisation of the school is changed. Nothing will be changed without consultation.