Overview
In addition to supporting the work of the Head of Department, the Second-in-charge of Computer Science will play a significant role in leading the department's work in the STEM Horizons project, funded by the Hg Foundation. UCS is one of five "hub" independent schools across the UK, and we work with local partner state schools to deliver lessons, exam preparation support and enrichment sessions to their pupils in Years 9 to 11. The current vacancy is a permanent full-time post. It offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic teacher to develop, or start, their career in a lively and innovative setting as part of a dynamic, supportive and collaborative department. The successful applicant will be a strong graduate of a relevant degree course, with a deep passion for Computer Science and the ability to convey this effectively to pupils across all age groups. This is an outstanding opportunity to teach Computer Science at a high level in a congenial and stimulating setting. It should, therefore, be attractive to an ECT (UCS offers full statutory induction), or to a serving teacher seeking wider experience. We welcome equally applications from teachers in the maintained sector and the independent sector. A willingness to contribute to the co-curricular life of the school will be an additional and important recommendation. We expect all of our teachers to be Form Tutors.
The Computer Science Department provides leadership of the Hg partnerships initiative and is a key area of school activity.
Responsibilities
* Support the Head of Department and contribute to the leadership of the Computer Science department.
* Play a significant role in leading the department's work in the STEM Horizons project.
* Lead the Hg partnerships initiative within the Computer Science department.
* Contribute to the co-curricular life of the school and participate as a Form Tutor as required.
* Teach Computer Science across age groups, with lessons delivered using Google Classroom and other software as required.
* Support delivery of CS within the wider digital learning programme (carousel for Years 7–8 and option-choices for Year 9, GCSE and Sixth Form).
Department Context
The Computer Science Department consists of four teachers, including the Head of Computer Science. The subject is a popular Year 9 and GCSE option, with approximately 200 pupils across this age range. At A Level, the department is growing rapidly with current sets in Years 12 and 13. The department has dedicated teaching rooms and pupils are taught using their own devices.
Curriculum: GCSE follows the AQA Computer Science specification (8525); A Level currently uses the Cambridge International Education specification (9618). Python is the chosen programming language at GCSE and A level. Results are consistently strong, and the department has a track record of helping pupils gain places at top universities (e.g., Durham, UCL, Imperial College London, Bath, Warwick, Bristol, Manchester, and more).
Enrichment and Community
Computer Science modules are part of a wider digital learning course for Years 7 and 8, with CS offered as an option in Years 9, GCSE and Sixth Form. The co-curricular life is rich, including Bebras challenges, algorithmic/programming clubs and competitions, and cross-curricular enrichment with other departments.
Safeguarding and Recruitment
University College School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check before commencing employment. UCS will also undertake its own recruitment checks with previous employers to confirm identities and professional records.
Salary and Benefits
UCS has its own competitive salary scale. Payment for this post will depend on qualifications and experience but will be above the national scale. The school does not offer accommodation; schemes exist to assist with loans for house purchase and travel expenses. Eligibility for financial assistance is assessed on a case-by-case basis. If admitted, the children of UCS staff may be educated at reduced fees. All staff are entitled to membership of UCS Active (the private Health & Fitness Club) at a heavily reduced rate.
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