Job Details

Start Date: 01/09/2026

Role Purpose

We are seeking to appoint an outstanding and ambitious Head of Science to lead the Science department across Harris Academy Rainham and Harris Rainham Sixth Form.

The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership and management of the Science curriculum across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning and achievement for all students.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Management

• Provide strong, visible leadership for the Science department across both the academy and sixth form.

• Develop and implement a clear departmental vision aligned with academy priorities.

• Lead, manage and develop teaching staff within the department.

• Monitor staff performance and support professional development.

• Promote a culture of high expectations, accountability and continuous improvement.

Curriculum & Standards

• Lead the planning, development and delivery of a high-quality Science curriculum from Year 7 to Year 13.

• Ensure curriculum progression, coherence and challenge across all key stages.

• Monitor and evaluate student progress and attainment using assessment data.

• Implement strategies to raise achievement and close gaps in performance.

• Ensure students are effectively prepared for GCSE and A Level examinations.

Teaching & Learning

• Model outstanding classroom practice.

• Ensure high standards of teaching, learning and assessment across the department.

• Lead on curriculum innovation and evidence-based teaching strategies.

• Support intervention strategies for underperforming students.

Student Outcomes & Experience

• Drive improvements in attainment, progress and outcomes in Science.

• Support enrichment opportunities, STEM initiatives and extracurricular activities.

• Promote progression routes into STEM-related further education and careers.

Collaboration

• Work collaboratively across Harris Academy Rainham and Harris Rainham Sixth Form to ensure alignment in curriculum delivery and standards.

• Contribute to whole-school improvement priorities.

• Engage with parents, carers and external stakeholders where appropriate.

Person Specification

Essential

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS).

• Degree in Science or a related subject.

• Proven successful teaching experience across Key Stages 3–5.

• Experience of leading or contributing significantly to a department or key stage.

• Strong understanding of curriculum design and assessment.

• Experience of using data to drive improvement.

• Excellent communication and leadership skills.