Teacher of Chemistry (Specialist science sixth form, A level only, High ability students)

Who we are

Opening in September 2025, Aston University Mathematics School (AUMS) is a specialist sixth form dedicated to transforming the lives of talented young mathematicians and scientists across the West Midlands.

Teaching at AUMS is a unique opportunity another teaching role—this is a chance to work with some of the brightest young scientists in the country, shaping their academic journey and inspiring them to push the boundaries of their subject. As part of a school that values intellectual challenge, curiosity, and interdisciplinary thinking, you will foster students’ ability to apply chemical principles to unfamiliar contexts, engage with ideas beyond the A-level syllabus, and think critically about scientific problems. This focus ensures we attract and nurture the region’s brightest and most capable students. Find out more about our school on our website: www.aums.ac.uk.

AUMS is part of the Aston University STEM Education Academy Trust (AUSEAT), a newly established multi-academy trust sponsored by Aston University. The trust builds on the strong pedagogical foundations, sustained leadership, and outstanding performance of the highly successful Aston University Engineering Academy (www.auea.co.uk).

Through its close partnership with Aston University, the trust provides a unique advantage, seamlessly integrating secondary education, higher education, and specialist STEM pathways. This connection fosters ambitious aspirations, expands career opportunities, and broadens pathways into STEM fields for our students.

Our mission extends beyond the school’s walls. Through outreach work with secondary teachers and pupils, we aim to raise the quality of mathematics education across the region, inspiring a new generation of STEM leaders.

What we can offer you

Joining our founding team at AUMS presents a unique, once-in-a-career opportunity to shape the culture, ethos, and direction of a brand-new school from the ground up.

You will also benefit from working in a stunning, fully refurbished building located on Aston University’s campus in central Birmingham. We are investing in a brand-new, purpose-built Chemistry laboratory, designed to facilitate cutting-edge practical work and advanced experimental techniques. The successful candidate will have the unique opportunity to contribute to the shape the design and specification of this state-of-the-art facility, ensuring it meets the demands of modern chemical education and research-inspired teaching.

Our rigorous entry requirements—students must achieve a grade 8 or above in GCSE Mathematics and pass an aptitude test and interview—ensure you will work with highly motivated, capable, and conscientious students who thrive on stretch and challenge.

We also offer a comprehensive package of benefits and professional development opportunities, including:

• Staff benefits, training, and healthcare package, including reduced-cost membership at Aston University’s Sports Centre, access to Aston University’s nursery scheme and free audiology, eye tests, and health clinics via Aston University.
• A personalised CPD and career development programme.
• Opportunities for higher study and professional development through Aston University.
• Regular opportunities for international visits.

At AUMS, we value the wellbeing of our staff and are committed to ensuring workload and work-life balance are respected, creating an environment where you can thrive both professionally and personally.

Who we are looking for

We are looking for an outstanding A-level Chemistry teacher with exemplary subject knowledge and a passion for working with high-achieving students. As the sole Chemistry specialist, you will have the rare opportunity to design and deliver an outstanding curriculum that develops students' deep conceptual understanding, problem-solving skills, and practical expertise—preparing them for the most competitive university courses in Chemistry, Natural Sciences, Medicine, and Engineering. You will bring expertise in stretching students beyond the standard curriculum and preparing them for university admissions, including competitive Oxbridge and Russell Group applications. Your teaching must be of the highest standard—subject knowledge will be rigorously assessed at interview.

In this role, you will have the autonomy to shape Chemistry at AUMS, working closely with the Head to design a rigorous and stimulating curriculum and ensuring that our students are equipped with the skills and knowledge to succeed in the most demanding academic environments. You will also build partnerships with universities, research institutions, and industry professionals to provide students with meaningful enrichment opportunities and real-world scientific engagement.

Here are five factors that make this role a truly unique opportunity:

• Specialist sixth form: Teach exclusively A-level in a school designed for gifted and talented young scientists and mathematicians.
• High academic challenge: Work with students who are passionate about their subject and ready to engage with ideas at undergraduate level.
• Autonomy and influence: Play a leading role in shaping the Chemistry curriculum and establishing AUMS as a centre of excellence.
• University and industry links: Develop partnerships that enrich students’ learning and provide insight into the wider scientific landscape.
• Collaborative environment: Work alongside exceptional colleagues in Mathematics, Physics, and Computer Science to create a truly integrated STEM education.

The position is full-time, though part-time candidates will be considered. Those wishing to work part-time should indicate this in their application. The minimum commitment would be 0.5 FTE from September 2025 and 0.8 FTE from September 2026. The full-time salary would be pro-rated for a part-time teacher.

This is a unique opportunity to influence the future of Chemistry education in a school dedicated to intellectual ambition, deep learning, and scientific excellence. If you are an outstanding teacher looking for a career-defining challenge, we would love to hear from you.

Find out more and apply

Please download the applicant pack for detailed information about the role, including the job description and person specification. For an informal and confidential discussion, contact us at head@aums.ac.uk to arrange a visit or a confidential conversation with the Headteacher, Francis Goodburn.

Applications should be submitted via the TES website form by 5pm on Monday, 24th March 2025. Interviews are provisionally scheduled for the week commencing Monday, 31st March.

We are committed to equality and diversity. We therefore welcome applications from colleagues from all backgrounds into our community irrespective of their religion or belief, age, ethnicity, gender, gender identity, disability, sexual orientation, marital or pregnancy status.

We are also committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students and we expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All posts are subject to Enhanced Disclosure clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service and candidates’ suitability to work with children will be explored at interview and confirmed through references for the appointee.