Subject Leader - Science

We seek to appoint a well-qualified, professional and enthusiastic Head of Department from September 2017. The successful candidate will lead a team of around 17 staff (teaching and support) on their continued journey to become an outstanding department.  Science results have improved in recent years and are on track for continued improvement this year; the challenge is to continue this momentum and build on the foundations already in place. The leadership of the department is supported by a co-ordinator for each of the Key Stages 3, 4 and 5 and there is a further member of staff with responsibility for the STEM agenda. 

Science

Science is taught throughout the 11-19 age range and at all levels of ability. It is taught in mixed ability groups in Years 7 and 8. In KS4, we offer both Separate Sciences and Combined Science and we follow the OCR Gateway syllabus. In the Sixth Form, students can follow courses in AQA Biology, OCR A Chemistry and OCR B Physics.

The Science Department is well resourced and is committed to extending and improving its range of opportunities for students. Practical experiments are a key part of the curriculum in Science, as we place great emphasis on enquiry in lessons. Our team is dedicated in maintaining curiosity and enthusing passion for our subject with all students. Teachers are well supported by our science technician team, and we have an established mentoring programme within the Department for new and recently qualified teachers. We have well established systems for tracking student progress, and all teachers benefit from being part of such a friendly, well qualified and collaborative department.

Teaching

The successful candidate will be expected to be an excellent classroom practitioner. As a school we value highly the development of new and existing materials and the post will involve the opportunity to work on the review of existing materials and the development of new ideas.

Above all else, the successful candidate should be enthusiastic about their work with young people and have a genuine concern for their development as individuals.

The school sees the form tutor as a key role in the support, development and welfare of the students and teachers are expected to undertake this role with the same standards and commitment as their subject role.

The role of Head of Science at Biddenham would be ideal for either an experienced Head of Department or someone looking to make that next step. This is a great opportunity for the right candidate to lead a dynamic department and be pivotal in shaping the department on its journey to outstanding.  

Closing date: Thursday 4th May with interviews asap thereafter

Job description and application forms are available to download from the school’s website, https://www.biddenham.beds.sch.uk. Please send applications for the attention of Julie Shepherd or by email to hr@biddenham.beds.sch.uk.

Biddenham School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references and other checks.