Subject Leader of Science

• The Whitstable School

• MPS/UPS + TLR1C

• 32.5 hours per week

• Start Date – September 2026

• Interview Date – w/c 30^th March 2026

The Whitstable School is seeking to appoint an ambitious and inspiring Subject Leader of Science to lead our experienced and committed team as we enter an exciting phase of development. This is a unique opportunity for a passionate leader to shape the future of science education within our school, particularly as we expand our A-level provision with Biology at its core and strengthen pathways from Key Stage 3 through to Key Stage 5.

About the Role

We are looking for a leader who can:

• Galvanise and inspire an experienced science team to achieve excellence
• Review and reshape the curriculum to ensure strong conceptual foundations from Key Stage 3 that reduce repetition at GCSE and support deeper understanding
• Develop consistent, high-quality teaching and assessment practices across the department
• Drive improvement so that science outcomes align with and exceed those in other core subjects
• Lead the growth of our A-level Biology pathway, ensuring strong recruitment, retention and success
• Foster a culture where science is rigorous, engaging and enjoyable

STEM & Enrichment Vision

Science at Whitstable extends beyond the laboratory. We are proud of our strong STEM engagement and are committed to:

• Sparking curiosity from Year 7 onwards
• Providing enrichment, trips and real-world scientific experiences
• Developing partnerships and opportunities that broaden student aspirations
• Building a pipeline of enthusiastic scientists progressing into GCSE and A-level study
• Facilities & Future Investment

The department benefits from a suite of purpose-built laboratories and strong technical support. As we continue to grow, there is a clear ambition to:

• Expand laboratory and specialist learning spaces
• Seek wider funding opportunities to enhance provision
• Invest in resources that support practical, investigative science

Why Join The Whitstable School & Swale Academies Trust?

As part of Swale Academies Trust, you will join a network of 19 schools working collaboratively to share expertise and best practice. Science leaders benefit from strong cross-Trust collaboration, enabling curriculum innovation, moderation, and shared improvement strategies.

We are committed to investing in our staff through:

• A Trust-wide science network that shares best practice and supports collaborative development
• High-quality CPD, including bespoke subject-specific science knowledge enhancement
• Opportunities to work with colleagues across schools to strengthen curriculum and pedagogy
• Dedicated time during the year to support exam board marking and assessment, recognising the professional value and impact this brings to teaching and standards
• Leadership development and progression opportunities across the Trust
• A Strong School Community

At Whitstable, staff wellbeing, collaboration and professional respect are central to our culture. We offer:

• A supportive and close-knit staff community
• Headteacher days awarded in recognition of sustained commitment to extracurricular activities
• A leadership team committed to workload balance and professional trust

Leadership & Support

You will be supported by:

• A dedicated Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 Science Lead who drive curriculum development, assessment and progression at each phase
• An experienced and collaborative science team
• A senior leadership team committed to improvement and professional growth
• Trust-wide networks and subject collaboration opportunities

We are looking for a leader who:

• Has a strong track record of excellent classroom practice
• Has the vision and expertise to design a coherent 3–5 curriculum journey
• Is passionate about Biology and post-16 progression
• Can motivate staff and students to achieve their very best
• Believes science should be both intellectually challenging and genuinely enjoyable

Why This Role Matters?

This is an opportunity to shape a department with strong foundations and clear ambition — building a science curriculum that inspires curiosity, strengthens outcomes and develops the next generation of scientists.

Visits to the school are warmly welcomed. To arrange a visit or request further information, please contact the school office.

Full details of the requirements of the post can be found in the accompanying recruitment pack.

This is an exciting opportunity to join our school. In return, we offer a stimulating, supporting, and rewarding working environment, where all staff are valued and where you will have the opportunity to access a range of excellent professional opportunities to support your progression.

Potential candidates with children who are of (or are approaching) secondary school age, may be interested to know that children of our staff are given priority in our Admissions Policy.

We understand the importance of work-life balance and will give due consideration to requests for flexible working.

We are proud to be an inclusive employer and encourage applications from all qualified individuals.

Join us to benefit from:

• Enhanced Maternity Pay
• Teachers Pension Scheme – with a generous employer contribution
• Employee Referral Recruitment Incentive
• Discounts with local and national retailers, cinemas and restaurants
• Access to training and development
• Employee Assistance Programme – Wellbeing and advice
• Cycle to Work scheme
• On-site Parking

Ready to join us?

If you are interested in this post and require further information or would like an informal discussion regarding the role, please contact tws-hr@swale.at or 01227 931300.

Applications should be made via Kent Teach or by submitting a SAT Application Form to tws-hr@swale.at. Please note, we cannot accept CVs.

If you experience any difficulty in completing the application form, please contact recruitment@swale.at or 01795 905989.

We are happy to discuss any support you may need during your application process as part of our reasonable adjustment approach.

In accordance with current GDPR compliance we will not keep any details / application forms on file once the position is filled.

The Whitstable School may undertake online searches of any candidates as part of the Shortlisting Process.

Applications will be considered upon being received. Interviews may take place prior to the closing date.

Swale Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  This post is exempt from ROA and will require an enhanced DBS disclosure.

Swale Academies Trust schools will conduct an online check of shortlisted candidates in line with the Keeping Children Safe In Education guidelines.

Kent Teach advert for applications - https://www.kent-teach.com/Recruitment/Vacancy/VacancyDetails.aspx?VacancyId=153648