Head of Lower School Science

The Science Department at Pate’s is dedicated to fostering curiosity, innovation and an environment where students are  encouraged to explore the wonders of science.

Each Science team has experienced and knowledgeable teachers who are passionate about providing high-quality, engaging teaching that sparks curiosity and critical thinking and making learning both exciting and meaningful.

The Lower School Science Department delivers an inspiring and dynamic KS3 curriculum for Years 7 and 8, supported by a strong team led by the Head of Lower School Science and colleagues from across the wider science faculty. With two dedicated, well-equipped laboratories and a committed Science Technician, the department provides an excellent environment for practical, hands on learning.

Our in house curriculum—developed in partnership with KS4—lays the foundations for GCSE success while helping students become confident investigators who can design rigorous studies and make sense of the information they encounter in daily life.

Students are taught in their form groups, enjoying six hour-long lessons per fortnight with the same teacher, enabling strong relationships and continuity of learning.

Teachers deliver biology, chemistry and physics through a coherent, interconnected approach that makes links between the three disciplines explicit. Practical work is central to our philosophy, with a strong emphasis on developing the skills needed to plan, conduct and evaluate high quality scientific investigations throughout Years 7 and 8.

Beyond the classroom, students experience a rich and exciting programme of opportunities from Lego League and Flying Start to the Shell Bright Ideas Challenge, encouraging creativity and ambition. We also take advantage of our proximity to the Cheltenham Science Festival, offering an annual trip that brings science to life and further broadens our students’ horizons.

We are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity for a creative, motivated and inspirational leader to become our Head of Lower School Science. This is an excellent role for an experienced subject specialist stepping into leadership for the first time, or an established middle leader seeking a fresh and rewarding challenge. You will play a central part in shaping the direction of Lower School Science, bringing enthusiasm for all scientific disciplines and the ability to excite our able and curious students. Your talent for explaining complex ideas with clarity, and inspiring both young people and colleagues, will be key to your success.

As Head of Lower School Science, you will lead a committed team in delivering high quality, engaging and ambitious teaching. You will oversee the effective use of resources, drive high standards across the department, and support colleagues in developing their professional practice. With a strong understanding of excellent classroom pedagogy, you will ensure that every student experiences a rich and thoughtfully designed KS3 curriculum that builds confidence, deepens understanding and sparks a lifelong interest in science.

We are looking for someone who is flexible, collaborative and resilient, and who relishes being part of a vibrant whole school community. You will bring creativity, strong organisational skills and a clear sense of purpose to your leadership, championing best practice and fostering a supportive, aspirational culture within the department. If you are excited by the chance to inspire the next generation of scientists and make a meaningful impact on student learning, we would be delighted to hear from you.

Pate’s Grammar School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff to share this commitment, and applicants must be willing to undergo relevant checks appropriate to the post, including checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

Please download the Application Pack and the Application Form by clicking on Apply Now.

Please see details to the right of this advert for further information.