Head of Department: Science

Placements24; Kempton Park; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,600,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary package with health

Professional development and training

Access to well-equipped laboratories

Supportive administrative team

Retirement fund contributions

Job summary

Placements24 presents an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Department: Science at a leading independent school in Tembisa, Gauteng. You will oversee Biology, Chemistry and Physics, drive pedagogical innovation, and ensure high academic standards while supporting students from Grade 8 to 12.

You will lead recruitment, coaching and appraisal of Science teachers, manage the department budget, and oversee laboratory safety and provisioning of resources.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in Physics, Chemistry or Biology required.
• PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification required.
• Minimum 7 years of secondary science teaching with at least 3 years in leadership.
• Proven curriculum development and implementation experience.
• Strong laboratory safety and resource management knowledge.
• Excellent leadership, communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to reside in or relocate to Tembisa, Gauteng.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Science Department (Biology, Chemistry, and Physics).
• Develop and implement engaging science curriculum aligned with standards.
• Recruit, train, mentor and evaluate science teachers.
• Oversee procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Monitor student academic performance and identify interventions.
• Organise science clubs and competitions.
• Manage the departmental budget.
• Represent the department at meetings and school events.
• Promote scientific inquiry and critical thinking.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum development

Budget management

Staff development

Communication

Interpersonal skills

Motivation

Educational leadership

Education

Master's degree in science

PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification

Job description

About the Role

Our client, a leading independent school situated in **Tembisa, Gauteng**, is actively seeking an experienced and visionary Head of Department: Science. This is a critical leadership position responsible for overseeing the entire Science faculty, including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The successful candidate will be instrumental in driving pedagogical innovation, ensuring the delivery of exceptional science education, and fostering a vibrant learning environment for students from Grade 8 to Grade 12. You will be responsible for strategic planning, staff development, and maintaining high academic standards within the department. This role is ideal for an educator with a strong science background and proven leadership capabilities looking to make a significant impact in **Tembisa, Gauteng**.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Science Department, including Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
• Develop and implement a dynamic and engaging Science curriculum aligned with national and international standards.
• Recruit, train, mentor, and evaluate Science teachers, fostering a culture of collaboration and continuous improvement.
• Oversee the procurement and maintenance of laboratory equipment and resources, ensuring a safe and conducive learning environment.
• Monitor student academic performance within the Science faculty, identifying areas for intervention and enrichment.
• Organise and supervise science-related extracurricular activities, clubs, and competitions.
• Manage the departmental budget effectively.
• Represent the Science Department at staff meetings, parent-teacher consultations, and school events.
• Promote a passion for scientific inquiry and critical thinking among students.

Requirements

• A Master's degree in a relevant Science discipline (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology) is required.
• A Postgraduate Certificate in Education (PGCE) or equivalent teaching qualification.
• A minimum of 7 years of teaching experience in secondary school science, with at least 3 years in a leadership or Head of Department role.
• Demonstrated success in curriculum development and implementation.
• Strong understanding of laboratory safety protocols and resource management.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to inspire and motivate both students and staff.
• Experience in budget management.
• Familiarity with the South African education system.
• Must reside in or be willing to relocate to **Tembisa, Gauteng**.

Benefits

• This position offers a highly competitive salary package, reflecting the seniority of the role, along with comprehensive benefits including medical aid and a provident fund.
• Opportunities for further professional development and leadership training are readily available.
• Our client provides access to well-equipped laboratories and modern teaching resources.
• The school prides itself on its supportive administrative team and a vibrant school community in **Tembisa, Gauteng**.
• Excellent career progression prospects exist for motivated individuals.
• The package includes retirement fund contributions and a robust medical aid scheme.