Head of Department - Physical Sciences

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

Benefits offered by this job

Professional development opportunities

Strategic input into school direction

On-site role in Bloemfontein

Job summary

Placements24 in Bloemfontein, Free State, is seeking an experienced educator to lead the Physical Sciences department as Head of Department. The role focuses on Physics and Chemistry leadership, curriculum development, and staff development within a rigorous academic setting.

The ideal candidate will have a Master’s degree in a related field, 8+ years of Physical Sciences teaching experience, and SACE registration.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Science Education, or related field.
• Minimum 8 years of teaching Physical Sciences with at least 3 years in leadership/Head of Department role.
• Strong understanding of national curriculum frameworks for Physical Sciences.
• Leadership and management capabilities.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organizational abilities.
• Proven ability to foster a positive working environment.
• Experience in curriculum development and assessment design.
• SACE registration.
• Commitment to high academic standards and student welfare.
• Available to work on-site in Bloemfontein.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Physical Sciences department across Physics and Chemistry.
• Develop and review the Physical Sciences curriculum.
• Provide instructional leadership and support to teaching staff.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide feedback.
• Ensure safe use of laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Foster a culture of innovation and excellence in teaching.
• Manage department budget and resources.
• Represent the department in school leadership meetings.
• Mentor junior teachers in the department.
• Promote student engagement in Physical Sciences and related activities.

Skills

Leadership

Communication

Organizational skills

Curriculum development

Staff development

Team collaboration

Education

Master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Science Education, or related field

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a well-regarded independent school in Bloemfontein, Free State , is seeking an experienced and dynamic educator to lead their Physical Sciences department. As the Head of Department, you will be responsible for overseeing the teaching and learning of Physics and Chemistry, managing a team of dedicated science teachers, and contributing to the overall academic direction of the school. This leadership role requires a strong academic background, exceptional organizational skills, and a passion for inspiring both students and staff. You will play a pivotal role in curriculum development, staff professional development, and ensuring the highest standards of science education are maintained. The ideal candidate will possess proven leadership capabilities and a deep commitment to fostering scientific inquiry and achievement within a rigorous academic environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Physical Sciences department, including Physics and Chemistry, across all relevant grade levels.
• Oversee the development, implementation, and review of the Physical Sciences curriculum.
• Provide instructional leadership and support to the department's teaching staff.
• Conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to department members.
• Ensure the effective and safe use of laboratory facilities and equipment.
• Foster a positive and collaborative departmental culture that promotes innovation and excellence in teaching.
• Manage the department's budget and resources effectively.
• Represent the department in school leadership meetings and contribute to school-wide strategic planning.
• Mentor and guide junior teachers within the department.
• Promote student engagement in Physical Sciences and encourage participation in science-related activities and competitions.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in Physics, Chemistry, Science Education, or a related field.
• A minimum of 8 years of experience in teaching Physical Sciences, with at least 3 years in a leadership or Head of Department role.
• Strong understanding of national curriculum frameworks for Physical Sciences.
• Demonstrated leadership and management skills.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational abilities.
• Proven ability to foster a positive and productive working environment.
• Experience in curriculum development and assessment design.
• Must be registered with SACE.
• Commitment to maintaining high academic standards and student welfare.
• Must be available to work on-site in Bloemfontein.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive leadership salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications. In addition to remuneration, this role provides significant opportunities for professional growth, strategic input into the school's academic direction, and the chance to lead a motivated team in Bloemfontein, Free State . Access to excellent resources, a supportive school community, and the satisfaction of shaping the future of science education are key benefits.