Director of Science

Tkat (the Kemnal Academies Trust); Bexleyheath; On-site; GBP 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Flexible working

Generous pension

Blue Light Card access

Cycle to work scheme

Counselling support

Job summary

Welling School, part of the Kemnal Academies Trust, seeks a Director of Science to drive the strategic direction of the Science Faculty and empower students to succeed daily.

The ideal candidate will establish a bold vision, bring proven subject expertise across KS3-5, and lead with a focus on equity, inclusion, and exceptional progress in Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.

Qualifications

• Bold, ambitious vision for the future strategic direction of the Science Faculty.
• Proven track record as an excellent classroom practitioner with strong subject expertise across Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.

Responsibilities

• Line-manage experienced staff and foster innovative teaching practices.
• Lead, inspire, and monitor department performance and CPD.
• Use data to monitor student outcomes, identify underachievement, and implement targeted actions.

Skills

Vision for science

Subject expertise across KS

Leadership & CPD

Data-driven decision making

ICT for inclusion

Equity & inclusion

Job description

We are looking for an ambitious and inspirational Director of Science who brings vision, expertise, and leadership to our team at Welling School. We need a leader ready to drive the strategic direction of our Science Faculty and empower students to succeed every single day.

In our Trust, a Director of Science is far more than a department head; you are a key architect in shaping an ambitious curriculum, raising educational standards, and fostering a strong culture of curiosity, achievement, and belonging. We are seeking a proactive, collaborative leader who can line-manage experienced staff, foster innovative teaching practices, and build an environment where every student makes exceptional progress across Chemistry, Physics, and Biology.

Whether you are an established middle leader looking for your next strategic step or a senior leader seeking to make a transformative impact, your talent will be deeply valued here. In our community, leaders are vital partners in driving continuous improvement and ensuring all students receive a high-quality, inclusive education.

Together, let's unlock scientific potential and ensure every student gets their chance to shine.

The Ideal Director of Science Will Be Someone Who:

• Establishes a bold, ambitious vision for the future strategic direction of the Science Faculty.
• Brings a proven track record as an excellent classroom practitioner with strong subject expertise (and the ability to teach Science across key stages).
• Leads, inspires, and enthuses departmental staff, managing performance and supporting high-quality CPD.
• Uses data effectively to monitor student outcomes, identify underachievement, and implement targeted action plans.
• Drives innovative teaching and learning approaches, including the effective use of ICT to ensure full accessibility and differentiation for all students.
• Fosters a positive climate for learning, developing cross-curricular links, extra-curricular opportunities, and high standards of literacy and numeracy in Science.
• Is resilient, adaptable, and deeply committed to inclusion, equity, and achieving the best outcomes for all pupils.

Welling School is an ambitious 11‑16 academy located in Welling, committed to delivering a high-quality, rich education that opens doors for every student. As part of the Kemnal Academies Trust family, Welling School focuses on high standards of teaching, pupil progress, and creating a supportive environment where both staff and students can thrive.

To discover what makes Welling School special, visit our website or get in touch to arrange a visit to the school.

About Kemnal Academies Trust

Kemnal Academies Trust (TKAT) is a group of schools with ambition for every child and pride in the communities we serve. We provide a broad and rich education that opens doors. Working together, we give every pupil the support and the skills they need to build a life of purpose, agency, and contribution.

Our ultimate aim is to ensure we drive educational standards through the provision of outstanding teaching, leadership, and learning for all. Our leaders focus on pupil progress and attainment, regularly sharing knowledge, insight, and experience across our family of schools. We believe passionately in the power of collaborative working and actively promote school-to-school support because when we work together, every child benefits.

A Culture of Belonging: Equity, Inclusion & Diversity

Belonging is of utmost importance to us. We strive to create an atmosphere where everyone feels welcomed and respected, where expectations are high, and genuine support is provided. Here, colleagues are trusted to lead, contribute, and grow in alignment with our mission.

At Kemnal Academies Trust, we are committed to Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Belonging. We embrace and celebrate differences, value individual experiences, aspirations, and achievements, and continuously learn how to grow better together. We actively encourage applications from candidates of all backgrounds, as we know diversity strengthens our community and drives us forward.

Be Who You Are at TKAT

This job description represents the role in its entirety. We do not expect candidates to have in-depth experience of every single element on application, but we do expect to provide you with the support and flexibility you need to get there and to enable you to do it your way.

Flexible Working

Kemnal Academies Trust recognises the value of enabling our employees to develop their career while balancing their commitments and interests outside of work. We actively promote flexible working practices and opportunities to support a positive work-life balance.

We believe that in education, people matter most. Investing in your wellbeing and professional growth isn’t just a perk, it’s our priority. As part of the Kemnal Academies Trust (TKAT), you will receive a comprehensive benefits package designed to support both your career and your lifestyle:

• Exceptional Development & Leadership Pathways: Access tailored CPD programmes, middle/senior leadership development, and opportunities to collaborate across the Trust.
• 24/7 Confidential Counselling: Free, round-the-clock support for you and your eligible immediate family members.
• Family-Friendly Policies: Dedicated leave policies and flexible working options to support you through every stage of life.
• Supportive Environment: Work within a forward-thinking culture that actively champions your work-life balance and personal growth.
• Blue Light Card Access: Eligible to apply for the UK's premier discount scheme, unlocking savings across shopping, dining, travel, and entertainment.
• Cycle to Work Scheme: Spread the cost of a new bike and equipment for a healthier, more affordable commute.
• Generous Pension: Secure your long-term future with substantial employer pension contributions.