At a Glance
- Tasks: Shape the future of science education by influencing curriculum and assessment reforms.
- Company: Join AQA, a leading organisation in educational qualifications across the UK.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working options, generous leave, and wellbeing support.
- Why this job: Make a national impact on education while collaborating with experts in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Demonstrable subject knowledge and experience in curriculum development or education policy required.
- Other info: Diversity of thought is welcomed; apply by sending your CV and supporting statement.
The predicted salary is between 28800 - 48000 £ per year.
This is a brand new opportunity - ready to shape the future of education? If you have demonstrable expertise in your subject and want to influence how it's taught and assessed across the UK, this is your opportunity to make a national impact.
As a Subject Sector Lead, you will bring your subject expertise to the heart of curriculum and assessment reform. You will influence policy, shape qualifications, and ensure that learner assessments reflect the real needs of students, teachers, and employers. Ready to influence how science education prepares students for the future?
What will you be doing?
- You will be the subject expert in Science bringing your insight to shape qualifications and influence national education policy.
- You will stay ahead of curriculum changes and sector trends, using that knowledge to guide AQA's thinking and direction.
- You will work closely with colleagues across product, policy, research, and marketing to make sure your subject expertise is embedded in everything we do.
- You will also build strong relationships with schools, MATs, professional bodies, and government contacts to keep us connected and informed.
- This is a role where your voice will matter. You will represent AQA in national conversations, contribute to reform, and help shape the future of education.
- AQA Science qualifications are used in over 4000 centres - your insight will help keep them relevant and inspiring.
What's in it for you?
- Purpose and profile: You will play a visible role in shaping the future of qualifications in your subject.
- Flexible working: Hybrid, part-time, and flexible options to support your lifestyle and commitments.
- Generous leave: 25 days rising to 30 days with service, plus voluntary service days and discretionary leave over Christmas and New Year.
- Wellbeing support: Access to staff networks, mental health resources, BUPA healthcare and a supportive, inclusive culture.
- Pension: Up to 11.5% employer pension contributions.
- Professional growth: Collaborate with policy experts, researchers, and product leaders in a dynamic, forward-thinking environment.
What will help you succeed?
- Demonstrable subject knowledge and a strong understanding of the education landscape.
- Experience in curriculum development, assessment, education policy, or subject leadership.
- Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
- Strategic and collaborative thinker with the ability to build consensus and influence decision-making.
- A collaborative mindset and a passion for shaping the future of education.
Ready to shape the future of assessment? We actively welcome diversity of thought and experiences, especially from those who've gone beyond classroom teaching into curriculum design, education policy, or sector advocacy. If you bring fresh perspectives and a strategic mindset, this is your opportunity to lead meaningful change in education.
To apply, send your CV and a supporting statement outlining your motivation and transferable skills. If you are looking for flexible or part-time working options please clarify on application in detail.
Closing date: Sunday 22nd June 2025 - 23.59. Every application will receive a response.
Process: One of the Talent Acquisition Team will be in touch to arrange an initial pre-screening call. The selection process includes a first-stage interview via Microsoft Teams, followed by a final face-to-face interview. Interviews are expected to take place in July, with onboarding between September and early 2026 depending on notice periods.
AQA is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive and diverse workplace where everyone - regardless of religion, ethnicity, gender identity or expression, age, disability, sexual orientation, or background - is valued, respected, and supported to thrive.
Subject Sector Lead - Science employer: AQA and AQA Affiliates
Contact Detail:
AQA and AQA Affiliates Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Subject Sector Lead - Science
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the latest trends in science education and curriculum development. This will not only help you understand the current landscape but also allow you to speak confidently about how you can influence policy and shape qualifications during your interviews.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with professionals in the education sector, especially those involved in curriculum design and assessment. Building relationships with key stakeholders can provide valuable insights and may even lead to recommendations that could strengthen your application.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to discuss specific examples of how you've successfully influenced educational practices or policies in the past. Highlighting your experience in stakeholder engagement and collaboration will demonstrate your ability to make a meaningful impact in this role.
✨Tip Number 4
Showcase your passion for shaping the future of education by staying informed about current debates and reforms in the sector. Being able to articulate your vision for science education will set you apart as a candidate who is not just qualified, but also genuinely invested in the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Subject Sector Lead - Science
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities and expectations of the Subject Sector Lead - Science position. Tailor your application to highlight how your expertise aligns with the role's requirements.
Craft a Compelling Supporting Statement: Your supporting statement should clearly outline your motivation for applying and how your transferable skills make you a suitable candidate. Use specific examples from your experience in curriculum development or education policy to demonstrate your impact.
Highlight Relevant Experience: In your CV, emphasise any relevant experience in education, particularly in curriculum design, assessment, or subject leadership. Make sure to include any strategic initiatives you've led or contributed to that align with the goals of AQA.
Clarify Your Working Preferences: If you're interested in flexible or part-time working options, be sure to specify this in your application. Clearly outline your preferences and how they can fit within the role to show your commitment to finding a suitable work-life balance.
How to prepare for a job interview at AQA and AQA Affiliates
✨Showcase Your Subject Expertise
Make sure to highlight your deep knowledge in science and how it relates to curriculum development. Be prepared to discuss specific examples of how you've influenced educational practices or policies in the past.
✨Demonstrate Strategic Thinking
Prepare to discuss your approach to strategic planning and collaboration. Think of instances where you've successfully built consensus among stakeholders and how that can apply to shaping qualifications and assessments.
✨Engage with Current Trends
Stay updated on the latest trends in science education and assessment. Bring insights into how these trends can impact curriculum changes and be ready to share your thoughts on future developments in the sector.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice articulating your ideas clearly and confidently. Strong communication skills are essential for this role, so consider how you can convey complex information in an engaging way during the interview.