What skills and experience we're looking for
Second in Mathematics Faculty with Key Stage Responsibility
About us:
Great Western Academy is an oversubscribed 11-18 school which opened in brand new, state-of-the-art facilities in North Swindon in September 2018.
Our first two sets of GCSE results showed that the progress made by the large majority of students has been excellent, particularly in English and Maths. Benchmark results are well above national averages (2024: 53% grade 5+ in English and Maths, 74% grade 4+ in English and Maths) from cohorts that matched national averages on entry. This reflects progress by students of all abilities, backgrounds and those with SEND (the gaps in progress in the latter two being reduced to zero in the 2024 Maths results).
We are proud of the results across all departments, with GCSE Maths being exceptionally strong (2024: 61% grade 5+ and 81% grade 4+). The perception of Maths amongst students at GWA is very positive, reflected by a large proportion of our students progressing to our Sixth Form provision, either in A-Level Maths, Further Maths or Level 3 Core Maths. Mathematics is currently the most popular A-Level course in the Sixth Form, consistently having three classes in each year.
The results of our first four A-level cohorts have also been excellent and enabled 98% of university applicants to take up their offers, including four to Oxford and Cambridge; students have also secured prestigious apprenticeships with companies such as with Airbus and Rolls Royce. The results of the Maths department in this area also shine with progress and outcomes that are above the national average. Results of Further Maths have been a particular strength, demonstrating a strong drive for the very best in Mathematics education. Since 2023, all Further Mathematicians have gone on to study Maths-based degrees.
Role overview:
Due to the relocation of the current postholder we have a vacancy for a second in department in our excellent Mathematics team. The successful candidate will be responsible for the curriculum, pedagogy, teaching and learning of KS3, KS4 or KS5, dependent on candidate preference and background, as well as deputising for an ambitious Head of Mathematics. This role would suit an experienced middle leader ready for a new challenge, or a talented and driven teacher seeking to advance their career.
If successful, you will build on the existing strengths of our curriculum and pedagogy, developing the teaching and learning of your Key Stage to continually advance the profile of Mathematics within the school. We are especially keen to work with outstanding teachers with a proven track record of success improving outcomes for disadvantaged pupils, those with additional learning needs, and/or high prior attainers.
In this role, you will deliver an exciting Mathematics curriculum in KS3 and KS4, with the opportunity to teach A-level Mathematics, Further Mathematics and/or Level 3 Core Mathematics. You will be part of a growing team of dynamic and enthusiastic Mathematics teachers. In your role as second in department, you will be able to significantly shape the experiences of our students in the subject as they progress through our school, enhancing our provision with your experience and vision.Career development is well supported at GWA, with a strong commitment to staff development at all levels. The right candidate will be supported to success through CPD opportunities, in line with their previous experience of leadership.
Great Western Academy aims to radically improve the life chances of every student. Our brand-new building and state-of-the-art facilities help us to achieve this, but it is the fantastic team of staff who turn our vision into reality. If you have the proven ability to inspire students in the classroom and beyond, then this role will provide you with an exciting opportunity to further shape your practice and develop your career.
What the school offers its staff
Additional benefits of working at Great Western Academy include:
• Average class sizes of 26 in years 7 to 11
• Flexible working opportunities
• Excellent CPD opportunities
• State-of-the-art facilities and a 3G artificial football pitch
• Leading edge ICT, including a laptop provided for all students and staff
• Free Health and Wellbeing Support Service
• Cycle to work scheme through Cyclescheme
• Access to EV charging on site. Electric Vehicle Salary Sacrifice scheme
• Easy access to the A419, and free parking
Commitment to safeguarding
Great Western Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults and we expect all staff to share this commitment and undergo appropriate checks. All posts within the Trust are therefore subject to an Enhanced DBS and barred list check.