Head of Science Department (High School)

Placements24; Rustenburg; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,100,000; Full time

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a dynamic Head of the Science Department for a high school in Rustenburg. This leadership role oversees curriculum planning, faculty management, and the promotion of an innovative science learning environment.

The successful candidate will guide a team of science teachers, ensure high-quality science education, and drive excellence in student scientific inquiry and academic achievement within the school community.

Qualifications

• Master's degree in a relevant Science field or Education.
• Minimum 7 years of high school science teaching experience.
• At least 3 years in a leadership/head of department role.
• Strong curriculum development and assessment knowledge in science education.
• Excellent leadership, communication and organizational skills.
• Commitment to inclusive and engaging learning in Rustenburg.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the science department, including curriculum development for Physical and Life Sciences and Natural Sciences.
• Supervise and mentor science teachers with professional development and evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with national curriculum standards and best practices in science pedagogy.
• Oversee budget and resources for laboratories and equipment.
• Foster scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and hands-on learning.
• Collaborate with school administration on academic initiatives.

Skills

Leadership

Curriculum design

Staff management

Science education

Communication

Budget oversight

Education

Master's degree in Science or Education

Tools

Curriculum mapping tools

Job description

About the Role

Our client is seeking a dynamic and experienced educator to serve as the Head of the Science Department for their high school in Rustenburg . This leadership position is responsible for overseeing all aspects of science education, including curriculum planning, faculty management, and fostering an innovative learning environment. You will guide a team of dedicated science teachers, ensuring the delivery of high-quality science education that prepares students for academic and scientific challenges ahead. The successful candidate will be a visionary leader committed to promoting scientific inquiry and excellence within the school community.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the science department, including curriculum development and implementation for Physical Sciences, Life Sciences, and Natural Sciences.
• Supervise and mentor science teachers, providing professional development and performance evaluations.
• Ensure compliance with national curriculum standards and promote best practices in science pedagogy.
• Oversee the budget and resources for science laboratories and equipment.
• Foster a culture of scientific curiosity, critical thinking, and hands‑on learning among students.
• Collaborate with school administration and other department heads on school‑wide academic initiatives.

Requirements

• Master's degree in a relevant Science field (e.g., Physics, Chemistry, Biology) or Education.
• Minimum of 7 years of experience in teaching science at the high school level.
• At least 3 years of experience in a leadership or Head of Department role.
• Strong understanding of curriculum development and assessment strategies in science education.
• Excellent leadership, communication, and organizational skills.
• A commitment to fostering an inclusive and engaging learning environment in Rustenburg .

Benefits

• Competitive executive-level salary package.
• Comprehensive medical and retirement benefits.
• Opportunities for leadership training and professional growth.
• A dynamic and well‑resourced science department.
• Supportive administrative team and a strong school ethos.