Lead Practitioner of Physics and Teacher of Physics

We are seeking to appoint ambitious, creative and inspiring teachers with energy, enthusiasm and a love of Science.  

These are permanent, full-time posts for candidates with an ability to teach Physics to A level. The Teacher of Physics role is suitable for an NQT. 

A relocation allowance could be available for suitably qualified candidates.  

These are wonderful opportunities to join a large, successful and dedicated team of specialists who work hard to enthuse our students, instil high standards, and provide them with the opportunity to fulfil their potential.  Large numbers take A level courses in Physics, Chemistry and Biology.  We offer separate GCSEs in Biology, Chemistry and Physics and also Combined Science at KS4.  

The successful candidates will:

• have a passion for science and physics 

• have a passion for working with students

• be able to plan and deliver high quality teaching 

• have excellent communication have the ability to embrace and contribute to the vision of the Department and school

• be able to build relationships quickly

• show respect to others and be able to embrace the ethos and values of the School

• be positive, optimistic, caring, kind and approachable

• be willing to be immersed in the life of a busy and successful school

• have the ability to support, challenge and inspire our students, encouraging them to achieve the best they can through the promotion of outstanding teaching and learning

The Gryphon is a wonderful place to work and has a special atmosphere and feel.  It became a founder member of the Sherborne Area Schools’ Trust (SAST) a multi-academy trust established in June 2017.  Since September 2017, we have been designated as a teaching school and are very excited about the opportunities that this new status will bring.  In a recent national publication, The Real Schools Guide, The Gryphon was rated as one of only two schools in Dorset as 5 star; based on attainment, teaching, attendance and outcomes.   The Good Schools Guide concludes that we are a ‘Super much sought-after school at the very centre of its community taking on the Sherborne independents.  Truly a model of comprehensive education at its best – a place for all comers, which children and parents set their heart on, so it bulges at the seams’.

We are an outward looking school with excellent community links as well as strong relationships with other good and outstanding schools across the South West and nationally.

We are a comprehensive school serving a diverse community. Our high quality support staff make a real difference to our students. Teaching is often outstanding, and consistently at least good across all subjects and key stages. Teachers are provided with the resources to make lessons stimulating and practical and have excellent subject knowledge. They make sure students are very clear about what is demanded of them and how to improve. The School’s very positive entry in the Good School Guide describes pastoral care and discipline as ‘exceptional’. Students are reflective, behave with great courtesy, and are heavily involved in working with staff to improve the school and the welfare of others.

Our 2019 GCSE results were, once again, excellent against a national backdrop of tougher exams and significantly lower pass rates in many subjects.  The percentage of exams awarded level 7 or above (equivalent to an A or above in previous years) was over 21%, and the proportion of grades at level 4 and above is now 77% against a national average of 67.1%.

Additionally our A level results were excellent resulting in an ALPs score of 3. Three of our 6th formers gained places at Oxford and six will be studying medicine whilst 40% gained places at Russell Group universities.

In November 2015, our inspection as a Church School (SIAMS) judged us to be Outstanding.  Our most recent Ofsted visit, in November 2017, was very positive and confirmed our status as a “good school” and we enclose a copy of their letter to me outlining our many strengths.  Our focus for this year, which reflects our Church School status, is that we should be a “10:10” school; where students and staff experience life in all of its fullness.  So for us education is more than just exam results – we place great value on the personal development of each student.  We aim for them to leave school as well-rounded young people with a strong sense of what is socially, morally and culturally acceptable, and to feel that they have a contribution to make to the wider community. Digital learning is important at The Gryphon School including the use of mobile technology; we want our young people to use technology responsibly and to enhance their learning.

In summary, we are a true team with a great sense of pride in what we collectively achieve and we embrace the challenge for achievement to be even higher.  Our special culture and ethos focuses on enabling students to be the best that they can, both personally and academically, supported by the tremendous work and care of all our staff. We continue to strive to be outstanding in all aspects of school life.  

We are looking for team members with high expectations, a love of their subject, the ability to inspire and also laugh whilst enjoying the challenges of this role. You need to be a team player with the inner determination to develop continually, picking up the best ideas from around the world in education. In return, you will join a Department that is full of activity, rewarding and friendly.  We have a great record for supporting and developing all of our staff through our own training and links with NCSL providers.  

You are very welcome to visit us in advance of an application or to contact us to find out more.