What skills and experience we're looking for
The Governors of this exceptional Grammar School wish to appoint a well-qualified and enthusiastic Head of Geography for September 2025. This is a full-time, permanent post. The ability to teach Geography at both GCSE and A-level is essential. A strong degree in Geography with the ability to confidently teach the physical geography aspects of the GCE A-level Geography course is sought, although candidates with expertise in other areas are welcome to apply.
The Geography department at WKGS is a vibrant and dynamic place to work. We are seeking an inspiring individual to lead with energy and creativity, fostering a passion for geography and global understanding within our student body. Central to this role is a commitment to learning outside of the classroom. We are looking for a candidate who can provide students with opportunities to see their geographical learning in action through trips, fieldwork, and innovative extra-curricular initiatives that connect classroom theory with real-world applications.
A completed application form and letter addressing the content of the person specification, no longer than two sides of A4, should be submitted to office@wkgs.net for the attention of Mr S. Clarke, Headteacher
We are looking to attract candidates with the qualifications, skills and experience detailed below:
E: Essential D: Desirable
1. Qualifications
• Degree or equivalent in Geography, with the ability to confidently teach the physical geography aspects of the GCE A-level Geography course (E)
• QTS (secondary phase) (E)
• Further degree or related qualification (D)
2. Experience
• Leadership experience in a secondary school (E)
• Successful delivery of Geography at Advanced Level (E)
• Organisation and leadership of fieldwork and geography-related trips (E)
• Experience of managing others’ continued professional development (D)
3. Knowledge and Skills
• Detailed knowledge of curriculum design and implementation (E)
• Ways to inspire students through fieldwork and external learning opportunities (E)
• Ways to assess work over time and monitor this at a department level (E)
• Excellent understanding of best pedagogical practice to ensure ambition and challenge for all (E)
• Develop the use of GIS (Geographic Information Systems) (D)
• Use interactive technology to enhance teaching (D)
• An understanding of sustainability education and its application (D)
4. Special Requirements
• A belief in the potential of all students to perform at the highest level (E)
• Empathy with students and colleagues (E)
• Enhanced DBS clearance and identity checks (E)
• Willingness to contribute to the wider life of the school (E)
• Excellent references (E)
• Professional approach to conduct, attendance, and dress (E)
What the school offers its staff
• Greater PPA time than national recommendation
• Deadlines well publicised and staff consulted on the annual calendar
• Reduced data collections to ensure no collections for data’s sake
• Considerate approach to lesson observations, drop-ins and learning walks
• Headteacher ‘Open Door’ Policy at all times
• Opportunities for professional development always considered
• Dedicated classroom wherever possible for teaching staff
• Access for all staff to self-referral Health & Wellbeing Support package
• In-house Wellbeing Manager available to all staff, and Staff Wellbeing Committee that monitors and responds to staff needs.
• A flexible and generous approach to family appointments and child events
• On site car parking available
• Complimentary tea and coffee
• Regular social events organised by the Social Committee
Further details about the role
CV's or approaches from agencies are not accepted
Commitment to safeguarding
Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) medical online and social media prohibition from teaching right to work satisfactory references suitability to work with children You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.