KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES
In addition to the teaching staff responsibilities (as further detailed in the candidate pack), the post holder is responsible to the Head ofDepartment/Leadership Group Line Manager/Headteacher and any other designated Line Manager(s) for the following:
Leadership within the department
- To foster a shared enthusiasm for the subject as well as promoting high expectations and consistency of standards in teaching, marking, behaviour, and classroom routines.
- Establish clear expectations and constructive working relationships amongst staff involved in teaching the subject, through teamwork and building of mutual support.
- To implement agreed priorities in the relevant subject areas, in line with the Faculty Improvement Plan and School Improvement Plan. Ensure that the Head of Faculty and AHOFs are well informed regarding the progress of these priorities in Key Stage 3.
- To plan, review and revise schemes of work to include appropriate challenge.
- Ensure the schemes of work meet National Curriculum requirements and keep up to date on latest national updates and trends in KS3 science.
- Management and coordination of resources in KS3 science including textbooks, online resources and faculty shared drives.
- Model and promote positive student behaviour for learning within the department. Support staff with individual cases of misbehaviour, using a wide range of strategies such as teacher/faculty review as well as liaising with pastoral and behaviour teams.
- To holistically track student progress in the department, through systemic monitoring, reviewing and evaluation.
Teaching and Learning
- Promote high quality, inclusive teaching and learning, which meets the needs of all students.
- Ensure that a stimulating learning environment is maintained in Key Stage 3 lessons through monitoring of how the curriculum is delivered, including delivery of practical investigations in science lessons.
- Assist and monitor the work of colleagues in the department to ensure that the curriculum is being followed.
- Support the development of teaching skills through classroom observation, coaching and the dissemination of good practice, to promote consistency.
- To monitor and evaluate the contribution of the Curriculum Associate if applicable.
- To participate in departmental meetings and share information to the faculty (e.g. through faculty bulletin) and by setting clear agendas which focus on teaching and learning. Outcomes of any meetings should be recorded and shared with the department.
- To carry out regular work scrutiny of books and assessments, to ensure consistency and application of the school’s marking and assessment policy.
- To provide quality assurance monitoring of departmental marking through moderation.
Student Progress/ Data
- To holistically track student progress in the department, through systemic monitoring, reviewing and evaluation. Attend Year Progress Review Meetings (YPRs) to promote progress (key stage 3).
- Oversee the implementation and analysis of formative and summative assessments across KS3, ensuring accurate and meaningful data tracking.
- Use assessment data to identify underachievement and coordinate appropriate intervention strategies with the AHOFs for Biology, Chemistry and Physics.
- Prepare Key Stage 3 examinations and analyse examination performance, identifying strengths and weaknesses, and take timely action to address any identified weaknesses.
- Support teachers to use data effectively to identify emerging underachievement, particularly in disadvantaged student groups.
- To oversee the preparation of subject and progress report data within the department, ensuring that they are accurate, and completed by the deadline.
- Take appropriate action in support of the subject teacher when underachievement is identified, ensuring that all interventions are logged.
- Ensure that those with special educational needs are making appropriate progress and that their needs are being met.
- Establish a reward culture in the department, by encouraging staff to use praise systems for improved effort and progress.
- Develop and oversee a consistent and effective homework policy across KS3 science.
- Monitor homework completion and quality, working with classroom teachers to ensure accountability and engagement.
Extracurricular
- Promoting subject related pupil activities such as educational visits and supporting extracurricular activities within the Department to support curriculum learning and inspire students.
- Lead on initiatives and events such as Science Week, STEM clubs, competitions, and external partnerships to enhance the profile of science within the school.
- Work with the wider science team to create a culture of curiosity, challenge and engagement in science.
- Tracking participation of different groups in extracurricular activities to ensure inclusivity and opportunity for all students (PP, SEN, gender etc.).
For full details of this role description and further details about KHS, please refer to the candidate pack.