The Chemistry Department at St George's College is a lively, flourishing and friendly department, comprising six full-time members of staff. The Head of Chemistry will be required to lead and organise the department, teaching up to Oxbridge entrance level. This post will commence on 1 September 2025.
In the First and Second Year (Years 7 & 8), all students study Science for seven lessons per fortnight, taught in their tutor groups by one teacher covering the areas of Biology, Chemistry and Physics as topics. In the Third Year (Year 9), students continue to be taught in their tutor groups and have four lessons per fortnight in each science subject (Biology, Chemistry and Physics), each taught by a subject specialist. The KS3 National Curriculum is incorporated within the schemes of work for the First and Second Year and in Third Year students start the GCSE course, later choosing between either Double or Triple Science as part of their options for Fourth Year.
In the Fourth and Fifth Year (Year 10 & 11) Double Science students have five lessons per fortnight in in each of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. Triple Science students have seven lessons per fortnight in in each science subject. The students follow the Pearson Edexcel IGCSE Chemistry (9 -1) specification (4CH1).
At A level the Pearson Edexcel 9CH0 specification is followed. The department also provides extra support for students applying to Oxford and Cambridge.
Students are encouraged to participate in competitions and attend lectures and other events to enhance their interest in the subject. These activities include the Science Live lectures, the Chemistry in Action lectures and competitions such as Top of the Bench, the South East Chemistry Challenge, the Cambridge Chemistry Challenge and the International Chemistry Olympiad.
Members of the department are encouraged to attend relevant CPD to keep themselves updated on changes in the examination system. Attendance is also expected at feedback meetings on examinations as well as conferences to keep abreast of cutting-edge areas in Chemistry and so enhance teaching and communication with students.
Members of the department are expected to contribute to the various activities undertaken by the department including surgeries to support A Level and GCSE students and revision classes.
The department has five designated Chemistry laboratories which are also shared with the other sciences when the need arises.
The Head of Chemistry will be required to attend regular Head of Department meetings, run Chemistry Department meetings and supervise the work of the Chemistry Laboratory Technicians. In addition, it will be necessary to keep abreast of syllabus changes and to modify and update schemes of work as appropriate.
The Head of Chemistry will need to liaise closely with the Heads of Physics and Biology over general Science Department policy and the Science Programme taught to First and Second Years.
The Head of Chemistry represents science on the school Health & Safety Committee.
Please note, applications will be reviewed upon receipt and shortlisted candidates may be invited for interview at short notice.
Single staff accommodation may be available on-site.