Greenshaw Learning Trust is a highly successful multi academy trust that provides excellent quality, comprehensive, non-selective and inclusive education through primary schools and secondary schools. Our schools are based in London, Surrey, Berkshire, Gloucestershire and South Gloucestershire, Bristol and Plymouth. We also have three shared service hubs with remote / hybrid working opportunities where appropriate. We are building a family of like-minded schools that collaborate to provide mutual support, share their good practice and learn from each other, whilst retaining and developing their own distinctive character. We thrive from collaboration at every level. We encourage a culture of sharing ideas and learning from one another. As a Trust of schools, we are ‘Always Learning’ .
We are looking for a Head of Science. This is an exciting opportunity to join Greenshaw High School and become an integral member of the Science Department.
About the Science Department
Science is a highly successful and very popular subject at Greenshaw with an excellent track record of examination results across Triple and Combined GCSE and at A Level for each of the three subject disciplines. Science is an incredibly popular choice at A level with multiple classes for biology, chemistry and physics at AS and A2.
The department is staffed by a team of 17 specialist teachers. The Director of Science oversees the A Level provision and line manages the Heads of Biology, Chemistry and Physics. This is to provide the leadership and support necessary for our large A level cohorts.
The Head of Department is responsible for GCSE and KS3 outcomes and line manages the KS3 and KS4 co-ordinators along with the remaining teachers in the team. The Head of Department leads on the Professional Growth programme for the science team and the development of teaching and
learning across the department.
The Head of Department works closely with the Director of Science and the key stage co-ordinators to ensure curriculum alignment and sharing of specialist expertise. The Head of Department reports directly to the Deputy Headteacher responsible for the Quality of Education.
The majority of student’s study science in mixed ability classes in years to 7 to 9, with one nurture group per year group for a small number of pupils with additional needs and lower levels of prior
knowledge. The department recently introduced the Entry Level Certificate as an additional GCSE pathway to ensure that all pupils can be successful with their studies.
Approximately 120 pupils choose Triple Science an additional GCSE option with some setting between the Higher and Foundation tiers. Where possible, Triple and Combined Science classes are taught by subject specialists to ensure that pupils learn with expert teachers.
Main Responsibilities
The main duties and responsibilities will include:
1. Provide strategic leadership for the development of KS3 and KS4 outcomes and curricula, including supporting the Director of Science to ensure coherent links to A level disciplines.
1. Ensure challenging KS3 and KS4 programmes of study informed by our Principles of Learning that meet the needs of all students with clear procedures for review and refinement;
1. Ensure high quality teaching and learning informed by the Principles of Great Teaching, using regular lesson Drop Ins to monitor and evaluate quality and identify next steps;
1. In consultation with the Director of Science develop an annual Department Development Plan to set the strategic teaching and learning and curriculum objectives for the science department;
1. Plan and deliver high quality Subject Learning Communities that develop curriculum and assessment knowledge and improve teaching and learning in relation to identified priorities;
1. Oversee the curriculum, teaching and learning and assessment of the Y7 and Y8 Nurture Groups and the KS4 Entry Level Certificate so that pupils in these classes make progress and achieve success;
1. Develop and maintain the systematic use of formative assessment that informs teaching and learning;
1. Develop and maintain valid and reliable forms of summative assessment that ensure inferences about student learning are as accurate as possible;
1. Make sure that the highest standards of behaviour in lessons and around the school are being consistently maintained as defined by the Behaviour Policy;
1. Line manage the Science Technician team, including the co-ordination and development of their work and performance management;
1. Administer all tasks necessary for the proper functioning of the Department, including the monitoring and use of resources, the placing of orders, record-keeping and the organisation of examinations;
1. Be responsible for overseeing the maintenance of the department’s facilities, including the teaching classrooms, the resources and set texts;
1. Share in the development of whole school policies and to support their implementation;
1. Have a teaching load in the region of 34 periods out of 50;
1. Commit to and support the school’s policy and practice in relation to safeguarding and child protection;
1. Undertake such other duties and responsibilities as may be reasonably requested by the Headteacher in accordance with the relevant Pay and Conditions Document;
What’s in it for you:
* Professional development and career progression
* Generous pension scheme
* Blue Light Card
* Eligibility for Teacher Art Pass (teaching staff only)
* An Employee Assistance Programme
* Gym Discounts
* Free eye tests
* Cycle to work scheme
* Green car scheme
* Being part of a great team and expanding organisation
Please download the recruitment pack for further information.
Closing date for receipt of applications is Monday 28th April 2025. We reserve the right to appoint before the closing date.
We are committed to building an inclusive, diverse workplace where everyone can thrive. If you require any support or adjustments to interact with us, please let us know.
Greenshaw Learning Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects staff and volunteers to share this commitment.