Second in Science - Maternity Cover

Bitterne Park School; Southampton; On-site; GBP 35,000 - 48,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Private healthcare

On-site gym

Enhanced maternity/paternity leave

Electric car scheme

Self directed CPD fund

Cycle to work

Job summary

Bitterne Park School in Southampton seeks a capable Second in Science for a fixed-term maternity cover from January 2027. The role carries leadership responsibilities within a thriving Science Department and aligns with a strong curriculum and high teaching standards.

The post requires QTS and a science degree; Physics specialism is preferred but Biology, Chemistry or Combined Science are welcome. Salary is MPS/UPS plus TLR 2b and start date is 1st January 2027.

Qualifications

• QTS is essential.
• Degree in science or related field required.
• Experience teaching science at secondary level.
• Excellent classroom practice and subject knowledge.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• Commitment to raising standards and safeguarding.”

Responsibilities

• Support the Head of Science in strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the department.
• Deliver engaging Science lessons that promote high student achievement.
• Contribute to developing and implementing an ambitious Science curriculum.
• Monitor student progress and implement interventions to raise attainment.
• Share best practice and contribute to professional development of colleagues.
• Lead identified departmental improvement and innovation initiatives.
• Foster a culture of high expectations, curiosity and academic success.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Classroom management

Interventions

Team collaboration

Education

QTS

Science degree

Job description

Start date: 1st January 2027

Start Salary: MPS/UPS plus TLR 2b

Closing date: 2nd October 2026 - noon

Are you an ambitious and talented Science teacher ready to take the next step in your career? We are seeking an exceptional Second in Science to join our successful Science Department on a fixed-term maternity cover basis from January 2027.

This is an exciting opportunity for a highly effective classroom practitioner to support the leadership of a thriving department, helping to drive high standards of teaching, learning and achievement across Science. While a Physics specialism is preferred, we welcome applications from outstanding teachers of Biology, Chemistry or Combined Science.

The Role

As Second in Science, you will:

• Support the Head of Science in the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of the department.
• Deliver engaging and inspiring Science lessons that promote high levels of student achievement.
• Contribute to the development and implementation of an ambitious and effective Science curriculum.
• Monitor student progress and support interventions that raise attainment.
• Share best practice and contribute to the professional development of colleagues.
• Lead on identified areas of departmental improvement and innovation.
• Help foster a culture of high expectations, curiosity and academic success.

We Offer

• A welcoming and supportive Science Department.
• Opportunities to develop leadership skills and gain valuable middle leadership experience.
• Well-equipped laboratories and excellent teaching facilities.
• A strong commitment to professional development.
• A school that values staff wellbeing and work-life balance.

This role would be ideal for an experienced teacher seeking their first leadership position or a current middle leader looking for a fresh challenge in a successful and forward-thinking department.

If you are passionate about Science and committed to securing the very best outcomes for young people, we would love to hear from you.

Safeguarding Statement

In line with Department for Education guidance, Keeping Children Safe in Education, an online search will be carried out for all shortlisted candidates. Any concerns identified will be discussed at interview.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks, including an Enhanced DBS check.

The successful candidate will have:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) - essential
• A degree or relevant qualification in science or a related field.
• Experience of teaching science at secondary level.
• Excellent classroom practice and subject knowledge.
• Strong organisational and leadership skills.
• A commitment to raising standards and ensuring excellent outcomes for all students.
• Be aware of health and safety issues and actin accordance withthe school's Health and Safety Policy.

• Private Healthcare Options for you & your family*
• On-site Gym & Personal Training Sessions
• Enhanced Maternity, Paternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave
• Electric Car Scheme
• Self Directed CPD fund
• Charity Giving
• Cycle to Work scheme