Head of Science

Job Type: Full Time
Job Location: Southend-on-Sea
School Setting: Secondary School
Contract Type: Permanent

REF: SENDIRECT/191668
Rate: £46,244 – £66,414 per annum
Hours: Full time
Start Date: September 2025

Are you a visionary Head of Science ready to lead a thriving department and inspire the next generation of scientific thinkers? A high-performing secondary school in Southend-on-Sea is seeking an experienced and driven science leader to take the helm of their science faculty from September 2025. This permanent, full-time position is ideal for an established Head of Department or an ambitious teacher looking to step into senior leadership.

You’ll lead a team of subject specialists across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics, overseeing curriculum delivery, staff development, and the continued progress of students at KS3, KS4, and KS5. The successful candidate will bring energy, strategic thinking, and a passion for delivering outstanding science education that prepares students for future study and careers in STEM.

With a competitive salary, strong support from SLT, and a well-resourced department, this is a rare opportunity to shape the vision and outcomes of a key faculty in a respected school.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide strategic leadership across the science department.
• Oversee the delivery of an ambitious and inclusive science curriculum.
• Lead, support, and develop a team of science teachers and technicians.
• Monitor teaching standards, pupil progress, and departmental performance.
• Promote student achievement across all key stages and abilities.
• Contribute to whole-school leadership and improvement planning.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety in all practical science teaching.

Qualifications and Experience:

• QTS and a degree in a science-related subject (essential).
• Proven experience teaching science at secondary level (KS3–KS5).
• Leadership or middle leadership experience (preferred).
• Excellent communication, organisation, and team leadership skills.
• Strong understanding of curriculum design, assessment, and student progress tracking.
• Commitment to safeguarding and inclusive education.
• Ambition, resilience, and a passion for raising standards in science.

About School Staff Direct

School Staff Direct is a trusted education recruitment agency connecting outstanding educators with schools that value professionalism, ambition, and care. We support teachers and leaders at every career stage and place them in environments where they can truly thrive.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All applicants will undergo comprehensive vetting checks in accordance with our Safeguarding, Recruitment, and Vetting Policy.

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