Teacher of Science

This is an exceptional opportunity for a new Teacher of Science to join a flourishing boarding and day school, set on an attractive 100-acre campus and in a beautiful part of rural Surrey.

With growing numbers of pupils in the school and increase in the number of pupils wanting to take Science subjects at higher levels, this appointment is important for the continuing academic growth of the school. Candidates in any science specialism (Biology, Chemistry or Physics) will be considered.

We welcome applications from both experienced teachers and newly qualified teachers (NQTs) who are eager to join a supportive and collaborative team in an environment that values both academic rigour and creativity.

As a Teacher of Science specialising in Biology, Chemistry, or Physics, you will play an integral role in this thriving department. The successful candidate will have the opportunity to inspire young minds, nurture curiosity, and contribute to the continued success of the department. You will be responsible for delivering high-quality lessons across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5, engaging pupils in practical and theoretical science and contributing to the department’s academic and extra-curricular initiatives.

Science is a core subject at King Edward’s Witley, playing a central role in the curriculum from 1st to 5th Form (Years 7-11) and attracting a growing number of Sixth Form pupils studying A-Level sciences. The School places a high priority on the development of its Science Department as part of its wider goal of building its academic profile and inspiring the next generation of scientists.

The Science Department offers Biology, Chemistry, and Physics across all year groups, taught by subject-specialist teachers in well-equipped laboratories. The School’s approach is designed to ignite curiosity in pupils and provide them with the skills to thrive academically and practically in their chosen specialism.

Curriculum Overview

In the Lower School (Years 7 and 8), pupils follow a broad introductory course in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, laying a strong foundation for future studies. Our pupils progress to GCSE learning in Middle School (Year 9-11) and have the option to take double or triple award (examined in all three specialisms).

At A-Level, pupils can specialise further, with an increasing number of pupils opting to study Science subjects. A-Level Biology, and many pursuing Chemistry and Physics as well.

Facilities and Resources

The Science Department is housed in a dedicated Science building, which includes subject-specific laboratories for Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Each teacher typically has their own laboratory, enabling them to create a personal and immersive learning environment tailored to their subject specialism. The Department is well-resourced, with extensive access to textbooks, interactive whiteboards, projectors, and advanced science software that enhances both teaching and pupil learning experiences. Three full-time, subject-specialist technicians provide essential support for practical work and experiments, ensuring that the department maintains a high standard of teaching and learning. A hallmark of the Science Department at King Edward’s is its emphasis on hands-on practical learning. Lessons are designed to be dynamic and interactive, allowing pupils to apply their theoretical knowledge through varied practical experiments, which are seen as a critical component of science education at all levels.

Collaboration and Cross-Curricular Engagement

Science teachers work closely together to share ideas, resources, and best practices. The Department is characterised by a spirit of collaboration, both within the individual science disciplines and across the wider curriculum. This teamwork ensures that pupils receive a holistic and interconnected education, preparing them to see the links between scientific subjects and other academic areas.

In addition, the department is active in cross-curricular initiatives that involve working with other departments, integrating science into broader themes that resonate with pupils and link to the wider world. This cross-curricular approach enables pupils to see the relevance of science beyond the lab, in areas such as geography, technology, and environmental studies.

Extra-Curricular Activities and Enrichment

The Science Department is committed to extending learning beyond the classroom. Teachers organise a variety of trips, workshops, and extracurricular activities aimed at enhancing pupils’ engagement with the subject. These include revision days for pupils preparing for public examinations, as well as enrichment opportunities for our own pupils and those at Barrow Hills and other local schools.

Key Departmental Priorities:

• The Science Department at King Edward’s School is focused on fostering a culture of academic excellence and curiosity. Key priorities for the department include:
• Strengthening results at GCSE and A-Level, supporting pupils to achieve their academic potential and pursue further study in STEM fields.
• Expanding participation in A-Level sciences
• Enhancing practical learning opportunities, ensuring pupils gain hands-on experience with experiments and scientific investigations.
• Promoting supra-curricular initiatives, such as guest speakers, science-related clubs, and partnerships with universities for the development of our pupils and those in the local area.
• Encouraging cross-curricular collaboration, creating a rich and interconnected learning environment.

The School offers a competitive salary, pension scheme, fee remission on School fees both at King Edward’s and Barrow Hills Prep School, free car parking, free use of our gym, swimming pool and sports facilities, all meals and snacks on duty and a Cycle to Work Scheme.

King Edward’s School is a co-educational boarding and day 11-18 school for some 470 pupils, around 30% of whom are full boarders. We are an HMC school and proud of our unique heritage and place among British co-educational independent schools. Single or family accommodation may also be available at favourable rents.

For further details, please refer to Information Pack below, visit our website www.kesw.org or contact the HR Department at HR@kesw.org or telephone 01428 686739.

To apply, please complete the Application Form via the Quick Apply button.

Closing date for applications: 12pm Monday, 7th October 2024.

Applications will be considered on receipt and early application is recommended as we reserve the right to interview and offer the position prior to the closing date.

We are fully committed to equality, diversity and safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff to share this commitment. Please refer to our websites or ask HR for our child protection and rehabilitation of offenders policy. All successful applicants will be required to complete an Enhanced disclosure through DBS. Applicants from underrepresented groups are particularly welcome.