Head of Science

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 www.lancingcollege.org.uk. 

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.