A scholarly 11–18 secondary school in Plymouth, Devon, is seeking an ambitious Head of Science to provide strategic direction across its STEM curriculum and laboratory operations on a full-time, permanent basis starting in January.

Job Overview

Science is a flagship academic department at this institution. The successful candidate will take strategic leadership across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics from Key Stage 3 through Key Stage 5 (GCSE Combined/Separate Sciences, A-Level Physics, Chemistry, and Biology), with particular emphasis on raising attainment in physical sciences and medical pathways.

Working closely with senior leadership and laboratory technicians, you will line-manage teaching staff, maintain CLEAPSS laboratory compliance, refine curriculum sequencing, and lead interventions for public examinations. This is a full-time, permanent contract.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic vision, curriculum planning, and day-to-day operational leadership for the Science faculty

• Teach high-rigor Physics and general science lessons across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5

• Line-manage, observe, and mentor departmental teachers and laboratory technicians

• Enforce statutory CLEAPSS and COSHH health and safety protocols across all prep rooms and laboratories

• Analyze departmental assessment data to implement targeted revision sessions and mock exam clinics

• Direct STEM societies, physics Olympiad entries, and university preparation for Engineering and Medicine

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: January

• Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract

• Location: Plymouth, Devon

• Salary / Pay Rate: Leadership Scale (L6–L10 equivalent)

• Key Curriculum: AQA / Edexcel Science & OCR Physics

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with an honors degree in Physics, Engineering, or a physical science discipline

• Proven track record of delivering top-tier GCSE and Key Stage 5 examination outcomes

• Prior experience in departmental coordination, key stage leadership, or peer coaching

• Up-to-date working knowledge of CLEAPSS laboratory safety standards

• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this full-time, permanent Head of Science position in Plymouth for a January start.