Head of Physics

CHARTERHOUSE; Godalming; On-site; GBP 50,000 - 70,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious independent school is seeking a Head of Physics to lead the Physics Department. You will drive student engagement and curriculum development while inspiring both pupils and staff within a supportive academic environment. The role requires strong leadership and teaching skills, alongside a commitment to collaboration and innovation. This is a full-time, permanent position with excellent benefits.

Benefits

Pension

Medical insurance

School fee remission

On-site parking

Sports facilities

Free lunches

Qualifications

• Demonstrated experience leading a Physics department or similar.
• Ability to inspire and motivate colleagues and pupils.
• Commitment to supporting pupils' wellbeing.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Physics Department.
• Develop and implement a curriculum aligned with standards.
• Support and mentor teaching and technical staff.
• Contribute to whole-school academic and pastoral life.
• Maintain health and safety compliance.

Skills

Outstanding teaching ability

Leadership skills

Excellent communication skills

Proficiency in educational technology

Organizational skills

Education

Good Honours degree in Physics

Teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE)

Job description

Head of Physics

Location: Charterhouse, Godalming, Surrey

Start Date: September 2026

Type: Full-time, Permanent

About Charterhouse

Charterhouse is a prestigious coeducational independent school set on a stunning 250-acre campus in Surrey. Founded in 1611, we provide a world-class, future-ready education rooted in kindness and belonging. Our welcoming and diverse community inspires academic excellence and personal growth, empowering every individual to reach their full potential.

The Role

We seek an inspiring and strategic Head of Physics to lead our dynamic and thriving Physics Department from January 2026. This pivotal full-time role offers the opportunity to develop and sustain outstanding teaching and learning across all age groups—from Year 9 IGCSE pupils to Sixth Form students studying A Level Physics (AQA) and the IB Diploma Programme.

As Head of Physics, you will motivate and support a skilled team, oversee curriculum development, promote the excitement of Physics both within the school and beyond, and play a key role in advancing the department’s next phase of growth in a vibrant scientific community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead and manage the Physics Department, ensuring the highest standards of teaching, learning, and assessment.
• Develop and implement an ambitious, engaging curriculum aligned with current national and international standards.
• Oversee departmental staffing, set allocation, timetabling, resources, and budget management.
• Support and mentor teaching and technical staff, fostering a collaborative and innovative environment.
• Promote pupil engagement through practical work, Physics Olympiads, competitions, research projects, and enrichment activities.
• Contribute to whole-school academic and pastoral life, including acting as a Tutor and participating in co-curricular activities.
• Ensure health and safety compliance within all departmental activities.
• Maintain strong links with feeder prep schools and the wider scientific community.

Person Specification:

• A good Honours degree in Physics or a closely related subject; a teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE) is desirable.
• Demonstrated outstanding teaching ability and experience leading a Physics department or similar.
• Strong leadership skills with the ability to inspire and motivate both colleagues and pupils across all abilities and ages.
• Excellent communication skills and a passion for promoting Physics as a dynamic and relevant subject.
• Well-developed pastoral instincts and a commitment to supporting pupils’s wellbeing.
• Proficiency in using educational technology and developing innovative teaching resources.
• Exceptional organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage competing priorities.
• Willingness to contribute to co-curricular and boarding school life beyond the classroom hours.

Why Join Charterhouse?

• Work in a world-class independent school known for academic excellence and innovation.
• Join a supportive and welcoming community that values kindness and individual potential.
• Benefit from excellent professional development opportunities and generous staff packages including pension, medical insurance, school fee remission (subject to eligibility), on-site parking, sports facilities including golf, and free lunches.
• Participate fully in the vibrant academic, pastoral, and co-curricular life of the school.

How to Apply

Please apply via our websiteby 12 noon on Tuesday, 25 November 2025, completing the online application and uploading your CV. Early applications are encouraged. Successful candidates will be subject to child protection and criminal record screening.

For an informal conversation about the role, please contact David Dickinson, Head of Science, at [e-mail]

Charterhouse is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We celebrate diversity and warmly welcome applicants from all backgrounds.

Contact

• Charterhouse, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX
• Tel: [phone] | Email: [e-mail]
• Website: charterhouse.org.uk