Head of Physics

St Mary's Calne is a well-established independent school in the United Kingdom, committed to providing high-quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment. We are seeking an experienced and passionate Head of Physics to join our Science department.

Position: Head of Physics
Department: Science
Subject: Physics
Education Stage: Further Education (A Level)
Minimum Experience: 3 years

Job Description:
The post of Head of Physics suits a highly committed, passionate science leader to further develop and deliver our unique and enriching knowledge-led academic programme. Science is central to the success of the school, and the Head of Physics should be a talented individual who has belief in the ability of all the students to succeed in science. We emphasise teaching the subject first and resist the demands to teach to the test. The subject leader strives for excellence in all aspects of teaching and learning and continues to inspire the department to take the pupils on a journey from basic scientific ability to flourishing young scientists, forging new and interesting pathways and networks.

Person Specification

Curriculum

· Reviewing and developing our bespoke programmes for Year 7 and 8

· Reviewing and developing the Physics curriculum for Years 9, 10 and 11, working together with the Head of Science and the Heads of Biology and Chemistry to ensure that all disciplines share common goals and deliver innovative and challenging programmes

· Delivering a Fourth Form Physics curriculum that is embedded with opportunities to stretch, challenge and connect with other disciplines, both within and beyond science

Leadership

· Leading the Physics team in the review and development of both curriculum and assessment, in conjunction with the Head of Science, putting outstanding pupil progress at the heart of all decision making

· Developing relationships with universities, academic institutions, professional bodies and industry to enhance the student experience of Physics

· Advising students on relevant university courses and ensuring that candidates for Oxbridge, Physics and Engineering are appropriately supported

· Lead the strategy and planning for Physics related and other enrichment opportunities throughout the year

· Participate in events such as Open Day as necessary

Management

· Organising end-of-year examinations, mock examinations and, where appropriate, setting and marking of entrance and scholarship papers for Physics

· Organising appropriate assessments to ensure that pupil progress can be monitored effectively and adjustments can be made when necessary

· Analysing data, identifying strengths and weaknesses within Physics cohorts and addressing emergent needs

· Overseeing the Physics area on Microsoft Teams

· Managing the day-to-day administration of the Physics team working with technicians to ensure excellent provision

· Reviewing entries for external examinations (working with the Head of Science)

· Ensuring displays in the teaching rooms are of very high quality and regularly updated

· Communicating with the Head of Science regarding the budgetary requirements for Physics

Safeguarding

· To adhere to school policy on safeguarding and update training as required

· To ensure the safeguarding and wellbeing of children and young people at the school in accordance with school policies

Qualifications, skills and experience

· A strong academic background and a good honours degree in Physics or a related subject

· Up to date knowledge of subject developments for pupils 11-18

· Qualified Teacher Status

· An empathetic, enthusiastic and well-presented person, capable of inspiring confidence in pupils, parents and staff

· Ability to: work flexibly to fulfil the requirements of the post; prioritise; work calmly under pressure and respond positively to changing demands

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with very good written and spoken English

· Excellent organisational and time management skills; competency in the use of ICT for administration and teaching purposes

· An understanding of the expectations, ethos and aims of a full boarding school

· Committed to the safeguarding and wellbeing of children and young people

Desirable requirements

· Experience of preparing pupils for Oxbridge entrance

· Awareness of the requirements of the relevant GCSE and A Level specifications

If you are an inspiring educator looking for an opportunity to lead within a supportive school community at St Mary's Calne, we would welcome your application.

· A strong academic background and a good honours degree in Physics or a related subject

· Up to date knowledge of subject developments for pupils 11-18

· Qualified Teacher Status

· An empathetic, enthusiastic and well-presented person, capable of inspiring confidence in pupils, parents and staff

· Ability to: work flexibly to fulfil the requirements of the post; prioritise; work calmly under pressure and respond positively to changing demands

· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills with very good written and spoken English

· Excellent organisational and time management skills; competency in the use of ICT for administration and teaching purposes

· An understanding of the expectations, ethos and aims of a full boarding school

· Committed to the safeguarding and wellbeing of children and young people

Desirable requirements

· Experience of preparing pupils for Oxbridge entrance

· Awareness of the requirements of the relevant GCSE and A Level specifications

If you are an inspiring educator looking for an opportunity to lead within a supportive school community at St Mary's Calne, we would welcome your application.