Teacher of Biology

Dean Close is a co-educational, day and boarding school, set in a beautiful 50-acre site on the edge of Cheltenham town and currently has 510 pupils between the ages of 13-18.  Founded in 1886, the School has a strong Christian ethos and greatly values its positive environment and good relations between staff and pupils.   Situated on the site are the Senior, Preparatory and Pre-Preparatory schools which share many of the fantastic facilities on offer, including a £3m Sports Hall, purpose-built Music and Art Schools, water-based astro pitches and a 550 seat professional Theatre.

The Biology Department has three full-time teachers and one part-timer who collectively teach all ages and abilities from 13+ to Oxbridge Entrance.  They are supported by a full-time technician.  The department occupies an entire floor of the Science Department, with three laboratories and a preparation room.  This is a dynamic, progressive and well-resourced team who encourage innovation and evaluation of modern techniques, whilst also facilitating the study of more traditional components through extensive practical work.  A wide range of IT resources complement both the delivery of the curriculum and the pupils' learning.

Full details about the department can be found at:

http://www.deanclose.org.uk/2055/senior/academic/biology/

The position reports to the Head of Biology and involves teaching a full timetable.

The role includes the following responsibilities:

• Responsible for the teaching and learning of pupils who study Biology from years 9-13 (and another Science up to GCSE) within the allocated teaching sets
• Attending and contributing to department meetings
• Supporting the Head of Department with some delegated departmental tasks
• Communicating effectively with the Head of Department, parents, tutors and house masters/mistresses on matters relating to pupils
• Attending Parents' Receptions/Meetings
• Attending INSET sessions
• Participating in Whole School projects which take place from time to time

The position also requires the post-holder to be willing and able to take a significant part in the broader life of this busy day and boarding school including the sport and games programme, co-curricular commitments, tutoring and working within the House system.  This commitment includes some evening and weekend requirements.  In return, we offer the opportunity to be part of our Dean Close community, to benefit from our approach towards career and personal development and the chance to have fun working with our pupils and fellow teachers.  

Person Specification

• Ability to inspire and teach pupils of different abilities and backgrounds in a co-educational context
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills
• High professional standards and integrity
• Strong organisational skills with the ability to meet deadlines and to prioritise within a busy boarding school environment
• Good ICT skills

Qualifications and Experience

• A strong educational track record including an Honours Degree in Biology (or similar) and preferably a teaching qualification
• Experience of teaching Biology in a Senior School, preferably with some co-educational experience, would be an advantage
• Ability to teach Biology to A2 level (and up to Oxbridge would be an advantage)

Salary

Negotiable but expected to be in the region of £23,500 to £36,500 per annum

Application Process

Completed application forms and a CV, together with a covering letter should be returned to the HR Manager, Dean Close School, Shelburne Road, Cheltenham, GL51 6HE. Tel 01242 258086, Email: hr@deanclose.org.uk by 12.00pm on the closing date.

Dean Close School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Closing Date for applications: 12pm noon, Thursday 9th October 2014