Subject Leader – Physics

We would like to appoint an outstanding Subject Leader of Physics.

We provide an exciting, deep and rewarding experience of Physics and to this end we can offer an excellent opportunity for a colleague possessing a secure A-level subject knowledge; but most importantly great enthusiasm, commitment and wide-ranging interest in the subject, up to date with a broad range of teaching methods and the ability to support, motivate and encourage our students at the very highest standard.

The department has five Physics specialist teachers. We have a long track record of excellent results at GCSE and A-level; and over recent years we have steadily and consistently increased the number of A-level students. Physics is delivered as a stand-alone subject from Year 8, with students commencing the Physics GCSE course in Year 9.  We provide separate AQA GCSE Physics for all students and teach OCR Physics A at A-level. Finally, we make much use of ICT teaching resources and techniques.

Physics is well known amongst the students for being a popular subject with keen staff who communicate their love of the subject very effectively. Many of our students progress as a result to related university courses and continue their enjoyment of Physics well beyond their school days.

Last year students achieved 99% grade 9-5 and 79% grade 9-7 at GCSE and 72.2% A*- C at A-Level. We strive to improve our results year on year.

The department is always looking at ways of developing its curriculum and widening the experience for students so expert subject knowledge and a passion to lead extra-curricular activities in Physics are highly desirable.

We take great pride in providing our students with a first-class education and instilling them with a love of learning.

For the Physics department at Heckmondwike, commitment, attitude, ideas, potential and enthusiasm are important qualities.

You will need to:

• believe in our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Excellence and follow our school  

   ethos embedded in our motto of ‘Nil Sine Labore’ -    Nothing Without Work

• be a reflective practitioner wanting to develop and hone your craft to the highest level

• be an inspirational teacher who builds excellent relationships and motivates students

Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities are outlined in a detailed job description.

In addition to this, teachers at Heckmondwike Grammar School are expected to be effective and reflective professionals who challenge and support all pupils to achieve their best. They should:

• Inspire confidence, build team commitment, and engage and motivate students.

• Think analytically about their work and take positive action to improve the quality of pupils’ learning.

• Encourage high standards of academic and personal achievement.

• Act as positive role models for students.

• Contribute actively to the policies and aspirations of the school and the Physics department.

What We Offer

• Motivated, ambitious students who are eager to learn and succeed.

• A supportive and creative team dedicated to student progress.

• Well-equipped, specialist classrooms to enhance teaching and learning.

• A learning-centred school where best practice is a priority.

• Comprehensive CPD opportunities to support professional development and career progression.

• A vibrant, collaborative community of like-minded professionals.

What You Will Bring to the Role

• A degree in a relevant discipline and a recognised teaching qualification.

• Up-to-date knowledge of the 11-18 curriculum and educational best practices.

• A strong classroom presence with the ability to inspire and motivate students from KS3 to KS5.

• Detailed knowledge of pedagogical practice in relation to Teaching and Learning.

• Skilled classroom practitioner.

• Highly effective communication skills.

• Ability to lead, manage and inspire colleagues.

• Ability to form good working relationships and influence others.

• Capacity to evaluate and improve.

• High level of skill in dealing with issues relating to student behaviour

• Ability to analyse performance data.

• Passionate belief in the ability of every student to achieve

• A clear educational vision and sense of direction

• Good organisational skills and high levels of self-motivation

• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines

• Ability to maintain a sense of perspective in all working conditions

• Effective ICT skills and an understanding of how technology can enhance teaching and learning.

• A willingness to contribute to extracurricular activities and the wider school community.

• Confidence in contributing to curriculum development, including schemes of work and teaching materials.

• Energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for Physics.

• A suitability to work with children, with a commitment to safeguarding and student well-being.

Why Should You Apply?

Heckmondwike Grammar School is a unique learning environment, home to students who are eager to learn, ambitious in their aspirations, and keen to make the most of their educational experience.

We take pride in:

• Our diverse school community, which consistently achieves exceptional results.

• A school culture that supports students' academic success and personal development.

• Strong relationships between staff and students, creating a positive learning environment.

• High expectations, which drive students to excel.

We also offer:

• A competitive salary.

• Membership of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme.

• A range of well-being benefits.

If you are interested in this position then please visit the vacancies section of our website.

We look forward to receiving your application

Protection of children:

Disclosure of criminal background of those with access to children.

All posts involving direct contact with children are exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.  However, amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975 (2013 & 2020) provide that certain convictions and cautions are ‘protected’.  These are not subject to disclosure to employers and cannot be taken into account.  Guidance and criteria on the filtering of these cautions and convictions can be found on https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/ministry-of-justice.

Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide details of unspent convictions and those that would not be filtered prior to the date of the interview.  You may be asked for further information about your criminal history during the recruitment process.  If your application is successful, this self-disclosure information will be checked against information from the Disclosure and Barring Service before your appointment is confirmed.

Safeguarding Statement:

Heckmondwike Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of its students and expects all employees and volunteers to share this commitment. 

Full details regarding our Safeguarding Procedures can be found on our website in the Safeguarding section, alternatively, please contact Recruitment to obtain a copy.