Head of Physics | Full-time, Permanent | Closing Date: Friday 27th February 2026

The Leys; Cambridge; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

A co-educational school in Cambridge is seeking a well-qualified Head of Physics to lead a successful and well-resourced department starting September 2026. The ideal candidate will have a proven record of high academic outcomes and possess strong leadership skills. This position offers an exciting opportunity for those looking to take on wider responsibilities or for experienced heads of department seeking new challenges. The school is committed to an inclusive educational environment and safeguarding the welfare of its pupils.

Qualifications

• Proven record of high academic outcomes for pupils across Years 7 to 13.
• Enthusiastic and inspirational approach to teaching Physics.
• Experience leading a department or seeking promotion.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Physics Department with dynamic and creative leadership.
• Work with the Head of Science Faculty to promote science.
• Support and motivate colleagues in teaching practice.

Skills

Leadership and communication skills

Classroom management

Ability to promote a love for science

Job description

This is an excellent opportunity for a well-qualified, enthusiastic and inspirational teacher to take on the leadership of a well-resourced and successful Physics Department from September 2026.

The successful candidate will be an excellent classroom practitioner with a proven record of high academic outcomes for pupils across Years 7 to 13. They will possess the leadership and communications skills necessary to support and motivate others. The role would suit someone seeking promotion and looking to take on wider responsibility, or an experienced Head of Department seeking a new challenge. The Head of Physics will provide the department with dynamic and creative leadership and will work with the Head of Science Faculty to promote a love of science throughout the school.

The Leys is an inclusive and inspiring co-educational boarding and day school offering an incredible learning environment and pupil experience in Cambridge. Putting pupils at the heart of everything we do, our shared values create a strong, caring, and cohesive community. The successful candidate will be joining a dedicated, successful, and welcoming team of teaching and business professionals, committed to working together to combine their skills, experience, and insights to deliver an excellent education to our pupils.

This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Before appointment to any role in the school, checks including an Enhanced DBS Check and workplace references will be undertaken in accordance with current statutory guidance. Evidence of eligibility to work in the UK is required. A one year probationary period will also apply.

The Foundation is committed to fostering an inclusive culture that promotes and values diversity and celebrates the diverse voice of our community.

For further details or an informal conversation about the role, please call 01223 508955 or email [emailprotected]

If you are interested in applying, please submit a completed application form including one page covering letter addressed to The Head, The Recruitment Team, The Leys School, Cambridge, CB2 7AD ( [emailprotected] ) by 09.00 am on 27 February 2026.

Interviews for this role are anticipated to be held on 10/11 March 2026.

To employ individuals from outside the UK under specific visa routes – such as the Skilled Worker or Temporary Worker visa – organisations must hold a Sponsor Licence issued by the UK Home Office. This licence confirms that the employer meets the necessary legal and compliance requirements to sponsor overseas workers. Please note that The Leys School does not hold a Sponsor Licence and is therefore unable to offer visa sponsorship for any vacancies.

This role has the opportunity for regular contact with pupils and therefore is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974.