Space Advocate (Seconded Teacher)

The National Space Academy is an award-winning provider of education programmes, continuing professional development sessions (CPD) and careers events, designed to support schools’ curricula in science, technology, engineering and maths (STEM) using space as the inspirational context.  This ground-breaking initiative combines world class expertise in space science and climate science at leading universities and companies in the UK with a network of outstanding teachers to provide engaging and effective STEM interventions nationally and internationally.

The National Space Academy has received a grant to deliver a programme of free intensive and interactive activities within the second phase of the UK Space Agency’s Space to Learn programme. We will be adding to our team of outstanding science teachers, who are based across all the regions and nations of the United Kingdom (England, Northern Ireland, Scotland and Wales) to deliver masterclasses in our target schools. We are currently recruiting in Birmingham, Bristol/Bath and Brighton/Eastbourne regions.

We are currently recruiting in:

• Birmingham


• Bristol/Bath


• Brighton/Eastbourne

*Please note, we will only be recruiting in these areas

As our masterclasses have a physics focus, we will need physics specialist teachers for KS5 delivery, however, any outstanding science teachers can be trained to deliver at KS3 and KS4. As such, this is an excellent opportunity for non-physics teachers to develop their skills.

The role can be shared across two teachers within the same school (for example a physics and non-physics specialist science teacher) increasing the upskilling potential of your school’s science department. If applications are being made on a shared basis this should be stated at application and a joint application made.

Successful candidates will be brought together at the National Space Centre for up to two days of training, where they will also receive a pack of space artefacts and experimental equipment primarily for use with Space to Learn masterclasses, but also for use within your own schools.

Full details of the delivery schedule and commitment needed from successful candidates and their schools, as well as a list of benefits to your school can be found within the ‘Information for schools’ document -space-advocate-information-for-institutions-and-leadership.pdf

To apply

Please provide the following:

A full CV

A brief cover letter stating why you would like to join this programme and outlining experience you have of contextual based learning in the classroom (examples of projects/activities you have used within your own practice encouraged). You should also state which level of Physics delivery you are experienced/comfortable with. Where role sharing is desired, this should be done for both teachers within the same document.

Evidence of, or confirmation of outstanding teaching, for example, feedback from observed lessons.

A written declaration of support from your Head/Governors stating that they are happy to commit to the full delivery schedule as outlined in the information document, as well as to the embedding of activities within your own school.

A short (3-5 minute) video of you explaining why you want to be a part of this project and showcasing your enthusiasm and passion. This could include clips of you in action in the classroom or showcasing activities you have developed and/or delivered yourself using an inspirational context. Please send video to: [email protected]  

Given the scope of this project and taking into account the geographical considerations, applicants will be contacted throughout this process and appointments for a short, online interview made with you. 

Closing Date for all applications Friday 15th May 9am

Interviews for successful shortlisted candidates to be held week commencing 8th June.

Job Description

Contract

Casual Contract - Please note that this is a fixed term role from 01/09/25 to 31/12/26.

Hours

3 days during Autumn term 2026 (can be split between a physics teacher and non-physics specialist, this must be specified upon application). There will also be up to two days of training and optional 1 day for home education event

Responsibilities

Core tasks:

• Delivery of masterclass sessions in support of Secondary and FE teaching and learning. This will take place in the schools and colleges themselves in your local region, as well as within your own schools.


• Liaise with your Regional Officer regarding bookings and feedback.


• Ensure optimum customer and student care is delivered at all times.


• Ensure that programmes are conducted in line with safeguarding procedures at all times.


• Undertake training as necessary

Additional responsibilites:

• There will be an opportunity to deliver a home education event in your local region. This is optional.


• Ensure feedback is collated and returned in a timely manner as per the feedback policy.


• Be familiar with and work within the National Space Centre and other relevant organisations’ risk assessments, adhering to their operational and health and safety procedures as appropriate


• Where possible disseminate training received to your school/college’s staff where appropriate (in the case of two teachers sharing a role) and drive delivery of these activities within your own school.

We will consider applications from outstanding teachers who have recently left the profession on a freelance basis – exceptional references and observation will be required.

Please note – Space Advocates are required to transport themselves and often large amount of kit to schools up to an hour and a half away. A driving licence and access to a vehicle is a must for this role.

These tasks are indicative of the role and are not exhaustive. The post holder will be expected to undertake other relevant tasks as designated.

Workplace

Your school, local schools and the National Space Centre for training. UK travel is an essential part of the role.

Working with children

An Enhanced disclosure is required for this role. Information about the Disclosure service can be found at https://www.gov.uk/government/organisations/disclosure-and-barring-service 

Remuneration

Secondment fees paid to school: school advised to used fees to pay for cover during term-time or as contribution to an additional science teacher role at your institution to facilitate this role. All days worked must be agreed in advance by National Space Academy Space to Learn project management team.