2nd In Charge of Science

We are seeking to appoint a well-qualified, inspiring and ambitious second in charge of Science.   We are looking for someone who is passionate about their subject and determined to impart knowledge, skills and understanding to all our young people, whilst exciting and engaging them in their learning. We will only consider candidates who can evidence a strong track record of success and who have made a significant impact on the lives and education of the children they teach. This will need to be demonstrated in your application and be clearly evident on the selection day. 

They will work closely with the Director of Science and the Head of Science to analyse student performance and develop teaching & learning and assessment materials, aimed at raising aspiration and attainment.

This exciting post has arisen due to over subscription in Year 7 for the last two years. This role will be vital in our growing school’s continuing journey for excellence and will provide fantastic career development for an aspiring Subject Leader. 

The successful candidate will join a supportive, forward-looking department and school, which places teaching and learning at the heart of everything we do.

We are looking for someone who can quickly develop their leadership to an outstanding level to ensure that learning and progress in Science continues on an upward trajectory. The right candidate will receive support and guidance to do so. 

If you are a dynamic and inspirational Teacher of Science seeking a new adventure, we’d like to hear from you!  

The successful candidate:

• will champion all of our young people 
• is passionate about the importance of education and their subject area. Sharing in the pride of the department.
• refuses to accept that disadvantage or SEND should limit ambition or potential 
• is consistently an excellent practitioner with a positive work ethic. Leading by example to others within the team.
• is student centred and progress focused
• stays solution based in their leadership 
• is reflective, with a constant drive to improve 
• is a versatile and proactive  professional who is flexible in their operational and strategic outlook
• Will have a commitment to safeguarding.  Ensuring students grow up in circumstances consistent with the provision of safe and effective care, and taking action to enable all children to have the best outcomes. 

Why work at Chessington: 

• Our students are wonderful. They love the school, their teachers, sport and learning. 
• £30 million state of the art modern facilities in an Ofsted rated ‘Good’ school
• Fantastic support from line managers and SLT who genuinely want to see you succeed and thrive. 
• Excellent opportunities for career progression and professional development in a successful family of schools within the Every Child Every Day Trust 
• A school dedicated to well-being. Increased length of October Half Term, workload reducing feedback strategies, Free gym membership, onsite childcare and more. 

Applications need to be made no later than midday Monday 22nd April. We reserved the right to withdraw the advert if suitable candidates are found.  

Please see our school video here 

Please see our school pledges here

Here’s what our teachers say:

“I have been at this school for 9 years and I love it! It gets better and better each year without losing the supportive and caring environment” Head of Subject

I am in my ECT year. The CPD, support and commitment I get has been overwhelming. I made the right choice” ECT New Teacher 

“This is the best school I have ever worked at” Deputy Headteacher 

Chessington Science Department

The Science team currently consists of eight specialist teachers, which includes the Director of Science and Head of Science. This vacancy has arisen due to our growing school and department.

The department is experienced, committed and enjoys social times together as a team. The department is skilled in regular mentoring of trainee teachers in their Initial Teacher Training years whether through a PGCE, SCITT or Teach First Program

The aims of the department are:

• to ensure that every student, regardless of their background, reaches his/her full potential
• to enable each student with the passion that will enhance their application to study sciences at Key Stage 5.
• to provide students with an inquisitiveness to drive innovation, creating new ways to help us solve current and future problems.

The students are set in ability groups for their science lessons, but these are fluid and monitored regularly.  The majority of students follow the AQA Combined Science: Trilogy course (2 GCSEs), with a growing number of our strongest scientists studying the Separate Sciences (3 GCSEs)

The Science classrooms are located together in our own corridor, with teachers having their own classroom. Each classroom is equipped with a projector, visualiser and interactive whiteboard.

Application packs are available from Elsa Harris, Chessington School, Garrison Lane, Chessington, Surrey, KT9 2JS, email eharris@chessington.kingston.sch.uk or telephone 020 8974 1156 x 204. For an informal conversation please contact Daniel West, Director of Science dwest@chessington.kingston.sch.uk

The Governing Body are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young persons and the Headteacher must ensure that the highest priority is given to following the guidance and regulations to safeguard children and young people. The successful candidate will be required to undergo an Enhanced Disclosure from the DBS.