We are seeking to appoint an enthusiastic scientist who will inspire the children to love their learning in this core subject. The ability to seek out opportunities for cross-curricular and STEM initiatives will be essential.
Job Title : Head of Science
Reporting To: Director of Studies
Management Responsibilities:
* To oversee the development of Science throughout the whole school but with particular focus on Years 6, 7 and 8
* Foster a love of Science and STEM activities
* Academic overview of Science, liaising with the Director of Studies regarding curriculum and quality of teaching
* Maintain a thorough and up-to-date understanding of curriculum developments, including the school’s Primary Science Quality Mark which is ready to be taken to the next stage
* Develop and manage the Science department on the VLE
* Ensure differentiation is appropriate at all ages throughout the school
* Track and monitor pupils’ progress, developing programmes of support or extension for those who need it
* Lead departmental appraisal, including book monitoring, lesson observation and scheme of work review
* Liaise with other Heads of Department to develop cross-curricular opportunities, including trips and on-site events
* Manage the departmental budget; manage and develop departmental resources
* Oversee and direct a part time Lab Technician
* Prepare Year 8 children for Scholarships to Lancing College and other Senior Schools
* To make staff aware of National Curriculum, LPH curriculum and Academic Scholarship curriculum changes and trends where necessary
* To write and review medium term and short-term plans
* To attend relevant courses and to disseminate information to staff
* To attend periodic meetings with other Heads of Department from IAPS schools and liaise with Heads of Department from senior schools in the district
Teacher responsibilities:
* Set and maintain good standards of discipline and behaviour inside and outside the classroom, encouraging the children to be kind and thoughtful people
* Plan, present and mark work in a professional manner and in accordance with school policies
* Encourage pupils to develop lively, enquiring minds
* Promote an attitude of ‘delving deeper’ to further children’s knowledge and understanding, to develop their love of learning, and to foster a sense of independent enquiry
* Have pastoral responsibility for a form, including supervision of form time, liaison with parents and form reports
* Encourage and maintain good communication with parents of children in that form
* Perform break, lunch and prep duties as part of the staff duty rota
* Maintain a happy working environment in the classroom, including high quality displays of children’s work and working walls
* Play a full role in the extra-curricular life of the school, including after school clubs and academic catch-up ‘clinics’
* Organise appropriate educational visits
* Involve the School in local and national events including competitions
* Cover classes for absent colleagues as required
* Actively support the marketing function of the school
* Liaise with Director of Studies over curricular/academic concerns regarding pupils
* Liaise with the Deputy Head over pastoral and behavioural concerns regarding pupils
* Liaise with the SENCO over concerns relating to SEN or EAL pupils
* Liaise with the AGT coordinator relating to more able or talented pupils
* Represent the school at area IAPS subject meetings when required
* Keep up to date with educational issues and be prepared to attend in service training as require
* Be an excellent role model for the pupils
* Fully support the ethos and aims of the school
* Ensure full knowledge and compliance with school policies
* Complete any other tasks which the Head reasonably requests of you
Skills and Qualifications
* Graduate and qualified teacher
* Experienced and able classroom practitioner; KS3 experience essential
* An understanding of Prep Schools and their rationale
* An understanding of current educational theory and practice
* Evidence of commitment to CPD
* Commitment to the extra-curricular life of the school
* Excellent written and oral communication skills
* Strong organisational skills
Personal Characteristics
* Innovative and a creative thinker
* Strong interpersonal skills when working with children, colleagues and parents
* Ability to prioritise effectively and balance competing pressures
* Ability to see tasks through to completion within set time frames
* Commitment and passion for teaching in general and Science specifically
* Resourcefulness and flexibility
* Desire to be fully involved in the life of the school
* Ability to lead from the front and by example
Application Procedure:
Applications should be made using the application form. Candidates are asked to add a covering letter setting out, as succinctly as possible, their reasons for applying for the position.
Application forms are available from the College website.
Please send any emails to recruitment@lancing.org.uk.
Applications should include a statement setting out the candidate’s suitability for this post, a current CV, a completed employment application form, and the names, addresses and telephone numbers of three referees, one of whom must be the applicant’s current Head.
The closing date for applications is Monday 7 October although applications will be reviewed on receipt and candidates may be invited to interview before the closing date. Early application is therefore advised.