Head of Department: Life Sciences

Placements24; Centurion; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,500,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Dept. allowance

Professional development

Job summary

Placements24 in Centurion, Gauteng, seeks an experienced Life Sciences educator to lead the department from Grade 8 to Matric, driving curriculum, teaching excellence and staff development.

The Head of Department will manage budgets, mentor teachers, implement CAPS-aligned assessment, and partner with school leadership to raise student outcomes in science.

Qualifications

• Degree in Life Sciences with PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification.
• Minimum 7 years of Life Sciences teaching experience, incl. 3+ years in leadership.
• Experience in curriculum development and implementation.
• Strong CAPS knowledge and assessment strategies.
• Excellent leadership, management and communication skills.
• SACE registration and active teaching status.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Life Sciences department, including staff supervision and development.
• Oversee curriculum development, implementation, and review aligned to national and school requirements.
• Ensure high-quality teaching and learning experiences for all students.
• Promote best practices in pedagogy and assessment within the department.
• Manage departmental budget and resources effectively.
• Liaise with other departments and school leadership on academic matters.
• Organize departmental events, science fairs and external competitions.
• Maintain high standards of discipline and student engagement.
• Report progress and student performance to senior management.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Staff management

CAPS knowledge

Assessment strategies

SACE registration

Educational technology

Education

Life Sciences degree

PGCE or teaching qualification

Job description

About the Role

A leading independent school in Centurion, Gauteng , is seeking an experienced and dynamic educator to lead its Life Sciences Department. This senior leadership role requires a visionary individual committed to academic excellence and fostering a passion for biological sciences among students from Grade 8 to Matric. The Head of Department will be responsible for curriculum development, staff management, and ensuring the highest standards of teaching and learning within the department. The successful candidate will play a crucial role in shaping the future of science education at the school, driving innovation, and mentoring a team of dedicated Life Sciences teachers. This is an excellent opportunity for an established educator looking to step into a leadership position and make a significant impact on student outcomes in Centurion .

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Life Sciences department, including staff supervision, professional development, and performance evaluation.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and review of the Life Sciences curriculum in line with national and school-specific requirements.
• Ensure the delivery of high-quality, engaging, and effective teaching and learning experiences for all students.
• Promote best practices in pedagogy and assessment within the department.
• Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively.
• Foster a positive and collaborative departmental culture.
• Liaise with other department heads and school leadership on academic matters.
• Organize and oversee departmental events, including science fairs and external competitions.
• Maintain high standards of discipline and student engagement within the department.
• Report on departmental progress and student performance to senior management.

Requirements

• A relevant degree in Life Sciences (e.g., Biology, Zoology, Botany) coupled with a Post Graduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or equivalent teaching qualification.
• A minimum of 7 years of teaching experience in Life Sciences, with at least 3 years in a leadership or senior capacity.
• Proven experience in curriculum development and implementation.
• Strong understanding of CAPS and assessment strategies for Life Sciences.
• Excellent leadership, management, and communication skills.
• Demonstrated ability to motivate and mentor teaching staff.
• Experience in managing departmental budgets and resources.
• Proficiency in utilizing educational technology to support teaching and learning.
• Registered with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
• A passion for science education and student development is essential.

Benefits

This leadership role offers a competitive salary package, including a departmental responsibility allowance, and comprehensive benefits. Our client provides opportunities for further professional development and career advancement within a supportive and dynamic school environment.

The position is based in Centurion, Gauteng , offering a chance to lead within a well-regarded institution committed to nurturing young minds.