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We seek to appoint from September 2026 a well-qualified, enthusiastic and energetic Head of Chemistry to lead a successful and thriving department at St Catherine's School. This position is full time or 0.8 FTE.
This post offers an exciting opportunity either for: an experienced Head of Chemistry seeking to further develop their leadership skills, or an outstanding teacher ready to take their first step into departmental leadership.
The successful candidate will join a happy, well‑established and supportive department where high standards are expected of both staff and pupils within a lively and collaborative atmosphere.
The Role
The Head of Chemistry will be a highly motivated and effective teacher with a genuine passion for their subject and the ability to inspire and challenge high‑achieving girls. A dynamic and ambitious leader, they will build on the department’s existing strengths, drive innovation in teaching and learning, and uphold consistently high academic standards.
They will work closely with the Heads of Biology and Physics and contribute actively to the wider team of Heads of Department. Teaching commitments will be devised sensibly, taking account of the strengths and interests of the successful candidate. Excellent opportunities for professional development will be available both within school and externally.
Key Responsibilities include:
Lead learning and pupil experience
1. Promote safeguarding at all times in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education
2. Deliver and oversee innovative, engaging and academically rigorous teaching
3. Ensure high‑quality curriculum provision at KS3, GCSE and A Level
4. Monitor and analyse pupil progress data to support every pupil in reaching her full potential
5. Maintain high standards of assessment, marking, recording and feedback across the department
Lead and develop colleagues
6. Provide clear vision, leadership and strategic direction for the department
7. Support and develop colleagues through lesson observation, marking scrutiny and appraisal
8. Lead weekly departmental meetings and contribute to whole‑school professional development
9. Support new teachers, ITT/ECTs and assist with departmental recruitment
Contribute to school life
10. Promote Chemistry within the school and to prospective pupils and parents
11. Provide a stimulating programme of enrichment and extra‑curricular opportunities
12. Represent Chemistry at Heads of Department meetings, science forums and external networks
13. Engage actively with the GSA South Central Region Cluster Group
Administration, health and safety
14. Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively
15. Ensure health and safety compliance and risk assessments
16. Oversee examination administration, practical endorsement moderation and internal assessments
17. Maintain departmental documentation, displays, and Open Day provision
The Ideal Candidate
You will be:
18. An outstanding classroom practitioner with strong subject knowledge
19. An organised, resourceful and collaborative professional
20. A confident leader with excellent interpersonal skills
21. Committed to professional development and continuous improvement
22. Willing to contribute fully to the wider life of the school
Application Details
Applications should be submitted via My New Term by 10.00am on Monday 20 April and should include:
The completed My New Term application form
A CV (optional)
Applications will be considered on receipt and interviews may occur at any time. Early application is therefore strongly encouraged.
Further information and application details can be found on our School website.
St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS and barred list check. The School is an equal opportunities employer.
Safeguarding Statement
St Catherine’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and an enhanced DBS and barred list check. The School is an equal opportunities employer.