Head of Secondary Geography

Role

We are looking for an enthusiastic and well-qualified teacher to lead the teaching and development of Geography in our growing secondary school. This is initially a part-time position (45%) that will grow annually and become a full-time role from September 2021. In the first year, the teaching will be in Years 7 to 10. Just two years later, there will be classes across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5.

Geography at GES

Our Geography curriculum follows the UK National Curriculum, whilst reflecting the international setting of the School through the study of local Swiss Geography. The aims of the course are: to develop an understanding of human and physical processes and the interconnections between them; to encourage and deepen questioning skills by incorporating natural, social, economic and political elements; to encourage data literacy skills by gathering and analysing information using a range of sources; and to develop decision making skills and the ability to communicate findings and justify opinions.

 We begin Key Stage 3 with a ‘big picture’ framework of what Geography encompasses. This acts as a starting point for future learning and aims to provide pupils with a framework for the development of knowledge and questioning skills. Each year of study covers a balanced range of human and physical topics with enquiry questions such as How can we live sustainably? or Do richer people suffer less from natural hazards? Within this programme, pupils undertake an annual fieldwork project in the local environment. 

Since we value cross-curricular learning, where possible we plan in collaboration with other departments, encouraging our pupils to join up their thinking and see the connections between subjects.

Geography remains a compulsory subject in Key Stage 4. In line with our focus on engaging pupils through the study of local Geography and encouraging global learning, the pupils study the Pearson Edexcel International GCSE. This qualification enables pupils to explore the world, the challenges it faces, and their own place within it. 

Key responsibilities

• Lead, motivate and inspire others, generating an enthusiasm for Geography amongst pupils and colleagues.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of learning and teaching in the subject, supporting and advising colleagues and sharing good practice.
• Work closely with the Head of Primary Humanities, planning for continuity and progression throughout the School.
• Work with other heads of department and with colleagues across the School, collaborating, sharing ideas and ensuring connectivity across the curriculum.
• Set out an annual action plan which:

- contributes to whole school objectives;

- is based on evidence and evaluation;

- identifies realistic targets for improvement and development.

• Submit an annual budget bid that is informed by this improvement plan and manage the budget, keeping within designated limits of spending.
• Keep abreast of developments in Geography education, continuously looking to strengthen your own knowledge, understanding and expertise.
• Attend relevant in-service training, and organise and lead training for others as appropriate.
• Seek to develop external links to enrich the education that we provide.
• Represent the School at relevant local, national or international meetings.
• Ensure that staff and pupils work in a safe manner in accordance with relevant risk assessments and with the School’s policy on Health and Safety.
• Teach the lessons assigned to you, planning appropriately to meet the needs of all pupils, making effective use of resources, and securing the best possible standards of learning and achievement.
• Maintain good order and discipline amongst pupils, in accordance with the School's   behaviour policy, and have due regard for their welfare, health and safety.
• Maintain a productive learning environment by employing good classroom techniques, resources and management skills.
• Follow guidelines for assessment as set out by the School and keep appropriate records.
• Establish professional and effective communication with parents, reporting to them formally and informally on the development, progress and attainment of pupils.
• Liaise with the Deputy Head and with Tutors about any pupils with specific learning needs or giving rise to learning or pastoral concerns.
• Contribute to the creation of a stimulating learning environment around the School.
• Show an active commitment to the wider life of the School, including extra-curricular activities and events.
• Show commitment to your own professional development and take an active interest in educational debate and development.
• Carry out administrative and supervisory duties efficiently and conscientiously.
• Supervise and, so far as is practicable, teach any pupils who are assigned to you by the teacher in charge of cover arrangements.
• Undertake such other tasks as may be reasonably assigned by the Deputy Head or Head from time to time.
• Act in accordance with the policies of the School and in particular with the principles laid down in the Staff Handbook, Staff Code of Conduct, ICT Acceptable Use Policy and Safeguarding & Child Protection Policy.

Person specification

We keep an open mind in the consideration of any applicant who believes they have something special and valuable to contribute.

Essential

• Experience of teaching Geography at Key Stages 3, 4 and 5
• Knowledge of the English National Curriculum, GCSE and A-Level Geography
• An enthusiastic and creative approach to teaching, which inspires pupils and enables learning to be engaging and relevant
• Commitment to an interconnected curriculum and to working with colleagues across a range of disciplines
• Commitment to helping pupils to develop a broad range of skills and attributes
• The ability to communicate effectively with pupils, colleagues and parents and to work as part of a collaborative team
• An interest in education beyond the classroom and across the age range
• Flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to take part in all aspects of school life, including tournaments trips, projects, special events and extracurricular clubs

Desirable

• A degree in Geography
• Qualified teacher status
• Experience in leading and/or accompanying Geography fieldwork trips
• Good IT skills

How to apply

Please submit a completed GES Application Form (https://www.geschool.ch/about/our-people/teaching-vacancies) to the Head of HR, Ms. Aurore Alefsen, by email to hr@geschool.ch before 12:00 on Thursday 3 October 2019. A brief covering letter to the Head and/or curriculum vitae may also be submitted but will not be accepted in place of a complete application form. Interviews will be held at the School on Friday 11 October 2019. 

Safer recruitment

Geneva English School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and enhanced national/international criminal records checks.