Science Technician (Senior School)

We are seeking a self-motivated and proactive Science Technician to support in meeting the practical requirements of the Science Curriculum, including IGCSEs and A Levels in Biology, Chemistry and Physics.

Excellent organisational skills are essential to be able to sustain effective management of science resources in order that high quality laboratory teaching can be provided.

About The British School of Amsterdam

The British School of Amsterdam is a not-for-profit school providing world class teaching and learning for children from 3 to 18 years old organised into three sections: Early Years (3-6 years), Juniors (6-11 years) and Seniors (11-18 years) each with its own Head and team of staff. We currently have just over 1,000 pupils across the school. The British School is directed by a whole school leadership team comprising the Principal, Bursar and the Heads of School. The Support Department consists of admissions, data management, finance, IT, facilities, catering, marketing & PR and HR.

Main responsibilities  

• Be responsible to the Lead Teachers of Biology, Chemistry and Physics in coordinating the use of, and development of, practical resources and facilities, including the provision of guidance and support in meeting the practical requirements of the Science Curriculum, including liaising with all areas of the school and outside organisations.  
• Ensure that the Science Team is resourced, organised and developed to meet the performance standards required by the department.  
• Offer professional guidance, assistance and support to pupils and teachers on the practical aspects of the curriculum.  
• Be responsible for setting up and monitoring systems used in the management and control of practical resources.  
• Undertake the lead role within the Science Department on routine and non-routine checking, cleaning, maintenance, calibration, testing and repairing of equipment to the required standard and report to the Facilities Coordinator.  
• Arrange the collection of specimens for curriculum purposes.  
• Recognise problems and apply appropriate scientific methods to identify causes and achieve solutions.  
• Maintain and enhance competence in own area of practice through professional development activity.  
• Operate and monitor systems for the safe storage of equipment, apparatus and materials, including chemicals.  
• Arrange for the disposal of waste laboratory materials, including chemical and biological waste.  
• Ensure satisfactory maintenance of laboratories, storage rooms and preparation rooms, and liaison on safety and relevant legal requirements.  
• Provide advice and assistance to staff on safe working practices and problems relating to health and safety, on the use of apparatus and equipment.  
• Ensure that standardised risk assessments are available and that all staff are aware of their location.  
• Maintain a resource bank of safety information.  
• Provide first aid treatment for minor laboratory injuries and maintain first aid equipment in laboratory areas.  
• Identify equipment needs in consultation with teaching staff and participate in the selection of new items and advise on best-value suppliers.  
• Advise teaching staff of the technical requirements raised by the curriculum and identifying in conjunction with teaching staff the technical support needs generated by curriculum development.

Contract and benefits

The post is full time (40 hrs). The working hours are from 8am to 4pm.

Benefits include: 

• A competitive salary (including holiday allowance) commensurate with experience. 
• A pension plan with 0% employee contribution. 
• School holidays, plus statutory holidays. 
• Net travel allowance according to the Dutch standard tax system.

Please note: for this position, EU citizenship or a Dutch residence permit is required.

Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. The offer of the role will be made subject to receipt of satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification checks and other safeguarding checks, and an overseas check (where appropriate).

Please use the TES Quick Apply Service to apply.

The application should include a covering letter, addressed to the Principal, Paul Morgan.