St Catherine's School - Head of Chemistry

Summary

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.

Detail

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

• Promote safeguarding at all times in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education
• Deliver and oversee innovative, engaging and academically rigorous teaching
• Ensure high‑quality curriculum provision at KS3, GCSE and A Level
• Monitor and analyse pupil progress data to support every pupil in reaching her full potential
• Maintain high standards of assessment, marking, recording and feedback across the department

Lead and develop colleagues

• Provide clear vision, leadership and strategic direction for the department
• Support and develop colleagues through lesson observation, marking scrutiny and appraisal
• Lead weekly departmental meetings and contribute to whole‑school professional development
• Support new teachers, ITT/ECTs and assist with departmental recruitment

Contribute to school life

• Promote Chemistry within the school and to prospective pupils and parents
• Provide a stimulating programme of enrichment and extra‑curricular opportunities
• Represent Chemistry at Heads of Department meetings, science forums and external networks
• Engage actively with the GSA South Central Region Cluster Group

Administration, health and safety

• Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively
• Ensure health and safety compliance and risk assessments
• Oversee examination administration, practical endorsement moderation and internal assessments
• Maintain departmental documentation, displays, and Open Day provision

The Ideal Candidate

You will be:

• An outstanding classroom practitioner with strong subject knowledge
• An organised, resourceful and collaborative professional
• A confident leader with excellent interpersonal skills
• Committed to professional development and continuous improvement
• 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 at:
www.stcatherines.info/welcome/job-opportunities

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.

Documents

• Head of Chemistry job description PDF Document