Head Of Department - Natural Sciences

Placements24; Polokwane; Hybrid; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Senior leadership salary

Medical aid

Pension fund

Hybrid work model

Professional growth and international

Job summary

Placements24 invites applications for a Head of Department for Natural Sciences at a leading independent school in Polokwane, Limpopo. You will oversee Biology, Chemistry and Physical Sciences across primary to high school, guiding a team of science educators to deliver high-quality, standards-aligned science education.

The role demands strong instructional leadership, lab management and safety oversight, curriculum development, and mentorship of staff while collaborating with school leadership

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Science or Science Education is required.
• Teaching qualification and substantial teaching experience (minimum 7 years) is required.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills are essential.
• Strong understanding of national curriculum frameworks and assessment requirements.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Natural Sciences department across all grade levels.
• Provide instructional leadership and support to Natural Sciences teachers.
• Oversee laboratories, safety protocols, and lab resources.
• Develop and review curriculum for Biology, Chemistry and Physical Sciences.
• Implement assessment strategies to monitor student progress.

Skills

Leadership experience

Curriculum development

Educational leadership

Team management

Communication skills

Education

Master's degree in Science or Science Education

Teaching qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading independent school situated in **Polokwane**, is seeking an accomplished and visionary Head of Department for Natural Sciences. This senior leadership role is responsible for guiding and managing all aspects of the Natural Sciences curriculum (including Biology, Chemistry, and Physical Sciences) from primary to high school levels. The Head of Department will inspire a team of dedicated science educators, foster a culture of academic excellence, and ensure the delivery of high-quality science education that aligns with national and international standards. This position requires strong leadership, pedagogical expertise, and a passion for scientific inquiry. The role is based at our client's well-resourced campus in **Polokwane, Limpopo**, offering a dynamic and supportive working environment. We are looking for an individual capable of driving innovation in science education and nurturing the next generation of scientists and critical thinkers.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Natural Sciences department, including curriculum development, implementation, and review.
• Provide instructional leadership and support to a team of Natural Sciences teachers.
• Ensure the effective delivery of science education across all grade levels, fostering a stimulating learning environment.
• Oversee the development and maintenance of science laboratories and resources, ensuring safety and compliance.
• Implement and monitor assessment strategies to track student progress and identify areas for improvement.
• Promote a culture of scientific inquiry, critical thinking, and innovation within the department.
• Collaborate with other department heads and school leadership to align educational strategies.
• Manage departmental budgets and resources effectively.
• Organise and facilitate professional development opportunities for departmental staff.
• Represent the Natural Sciences department at school meetings and events.
• Stay abreast of advancements in science education and best pedagogical practices.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Science (e.g., Biology, Chemistry, Physics) or Science Education.
• A recognized teaching qualification and substantial teaching experience (minimum 7 years), with at least 3 years in a leadership or Head of Department role.
• Proven experience in curriculum development and implementation for Natural Sciences.
• Strong understanding of national curriculum frameworks and assessment requirements.
• Demonstrated leadership and team management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organisational abilities.
• Experience in managing science laboratories and ensuring laboratory safety protocols.
• A commitment to fostering student engagement and academic excellence in science.
• Ability to inspire and mentor educators and students.
• Residency in or willingness to relocate to **Polokwane**.

Benefits

• Our client offers a competitive senior leadership salary, comprehensive medical aid, a generous pension fund, and opportunities for professional growth.
• The position includes a hybrid work arrangement, allowing for a balance between on-site and remote responsibilities.
• Access to state-of-the-art laboratory facilities and teaching resources is provided within a supportive and collaborative school community in **Polokwane**.
• Further benefits include performance-based bonuses and opportunities for international professional development.
• This is an exceptional opportunity to lead a dynamic science department and contribute to the educational success of students.