At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Physics department and inspire students to excel in their studies.
- Company: Join Kingdown School, a top-rated secondary school in Wiltshire.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive environment, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' lives and foster a love for Physics.
- Qualifications: QTS status and experience teaching Physics at KS5 required.
- Other info: Dynamic team atmosphere with excellent career progression opportunities.
The predicted salary is between 32916 - 51048 Β£ per year.
Kingdown School is looking to appoint a highly skilled Head of Physics to join its dynamic and successful Science Department, with effect from September 2026. This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced teacher to lead Physics within our large and hardworking department, supporting the team in raising attainment and challenging students to achieve their best. Previous experience in a similar leadership role is advantageous.
Kingdown School is a co-educational, non-denominational secondary school and sixth form, educating young people between the ages of 11 and 18 years. We have a strong reputation in the local community and beyond, built on an unswerving focus on the quality of teaching and learning and great pastoral care. Ranked in the top 10 secondary schools in Wiltshire, our school is located in the charming garrison town of Warminster, with excellent links to Salisbury, Bath, Bristol and the South-West. We are an academy under Acorn Education Trust, which provides exciting opportunities to collaborate and improve local education.
The successful candidate will share our passion for helping all young people to believe, aspire and achieve, and be able to teach Physics across the full age and ability range, up to A Level. QTS status is essential for the role. There is also the possibility of more responsibility for the right candidate.
We are looking for someone who:
- Is an experienced teacher committed to delivering excellence;
- Has experience teaching Physics to KS5;
- Has proven leadership skills/experience (ideally in a Science Department);
- Has a passion for Physics and strong expertise in the subject;
- Can teach a broad range of engaging and effective lessons that motivate, inspire and improve student attainment;
- Can work with our subject lead team to plan and deliver lessons and sequences of lessons to the highest standard that ensure real learning takes place and students make superior progress;
- Is able to raise attainment and challenge students to achieve their best;
- Has a commitment to extra-curricular activities;
- Is aware of current initiatives in Physics and has an in-depth knowledge of the subject and programmes of study across all Key Stages;
- Is an effective team member who can contribute positively to the work in our Science Department and is capable of supporting the development of colleagues;
- Has a positive, cheerful outlook with a good sense of humour;
- Is able to forge good relationships with students and staff;
- Is able to work hard and remain calm under pressure;
- Has a desire and the potential to develop a career in teaching at a leadership level;
- Has a desire to work within the Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) structure.
We can offer the successful candidate:
- An ambitious and vibrant place to work, with enthusiastic children and staff who are passionate about learning;
- A workplace where everyone feels valued and supported;
- Opportunities for training and progression;
- The support of Acorn Education Trust, with excellent opportunities to work with experienced colleagues;
- A supportive and clearly defined induction procedure.
For information about this role, including a full Job Description and Person Specification, please read our Applicant Information Pack.
Potential applicants are highly encouraged to arrange a tour to see what Kingdown School has to offer first-hand. Please contact Laura Munro to arrange a tour on: 01985-215551.
Closing Date: Wednesday 6th May 2026 at 12pm
Interview Date: Tuesday 12th May 2026
Please note: while the closing date for applications has been set, we reserve the right to interview and appoint a suitable candidate upon receipt of an exceptional application. Therefore, we would encourage prompt application for this position.
Safeguarding Statement: Acorn Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. If successful in obtaining this post you will be subject to a Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service and health screening. We are an equal opportunities employer. As part of our safer recruitment processes, if you are shortlisted for the post, we will carry out a social media account search.
Head of Physics in Warminster employer: Acorn Education Trust
Contact Detail:
Acorn Education Trust Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice π€«
We think this is how you could land Head of Physics in Warminster
β¨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Before your interview, do a bit of research on Kingdown School. Familiarise yourself with their values, achievements, and any recent news. This will help you tailor your answers and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
β¨Tip Number 2
Practice makes perfect! Run through common interview questions with a friend or in front of the mirror. Focus on how your experience aligns with the role of Head of Physics and be ready to share specific examples of your leadership and teaching successes.
β¨Tip Number 3
Show your passion for Physics! During the interview, let your enthusiasm for the subject shine through. Discuss innovative teaching methods you've used and how you engage students in learning. Remember, they want someone who can inspire the next generation of physicists!
β¨Tip Number 4
Follow up after your interview! A quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity can go a long way. It shows professionalism and keeps you fresh in their minds as they make their decision.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Physics in Warminster
Some tips for your application π«‘
Show Your Passion for Physics: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Physics shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and how you plan to continue doing so at Kingdown School.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience, especially any leadership roles you've held in a Science Department. We want to see how your background aligns with our goals for raising attainment and supporting our team.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your teaching philosophy and methods, ensuring we can easily see how you fit into our vibrant community.
Apply Through Our Website: Don't forget to submit your application through our website! This helps us keep everything organised and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, it's super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Education Trust
β¨Know Your Physics Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your Physics knowledge, especially the curriculum for KS5. Be prepared to discuss recent developments in the subject and how they can be integrated into your teaching.
β¨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Since this role involves leading a department, think of specific examples where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight how you motivated others and improved student outcomes.
β¨Engage with the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with Kingdown School's ethos and values. Be ready to explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to excellence and pastoral care.
β¨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Anticipate questions about how you'd handle various classroom situations or challenges within the department. Think about strategies you've used in the past to raise attainment and engage students.