At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in lab prep, support teachers, and ensure safety in science facilities.
- Company: Join Downsend, an innovative school shaping future leaders.
- Benefits: Free lunch, parking, discounts, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Full-time role during term time with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' learning experiences in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for science, strong organisation skills, and ideally Science A-levels.
The predicted salary is between 24000 - 30000 £ per year.
About the School
Downsend is an innovative and forward‑thinking independent school, with a new vision to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world. We prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem‑solving approach. We think big, celebrate innovation, and never hold back. All four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries across Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia and the Middle East, serving more than 100,000 students. Our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and proactive Science Technician to assist in promoting the education and welfare of pupils at Downsend School. The successful candidate will work under the direction of teaching or senior staff to support access to learning for all pupils and provide general assistance in the preparation room and other areas of the school as required. Key responsibilities include:
- Assisting teachers with demonstrations and practicals
- Developing and maintaining laboratory systems
- Conducting routine lab checks and maintenance
- Managing chemical and equipment stores safely
- Preparing lesson materials
- Supporting new experiments and resources
- Performing administrative duties
- Setting up ICT and data‑logging equipment
- Organising displays for events
- Ensuring compliance with Health & Safety procedures
This is an excellent opportunity for a confident, organised, and motivated individual to contribute to a vibrant learning environment while ensuring the smooth running of science facilities. This is a full‑time position, working 37.5 hours a week, Monday to Friday 8:30am‑4:30pm with a 30 minute unpaid break, during term‑time only. This equates to 34.8 weeks per year.
Who We Are Looking For
You are passionate about science and education, with strong organisational skills and attention to detail. You thrive in a busy environment, remain calm under pressure, and communicate effectively with staff and students. Ideally, you have Science A‑levels or equivalent and an understanding of health and safety in a laboratory setting. You are proactive, self‑motivated, and eager to contribute to a collaborative team. If you enjoy problem‑solving, have a keen eye for safety, and want to make a difference in pupils’ learning experiences, we’d love to hear from you.
Benefits at Cognita
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- Exclusive third‑party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
How to Apply
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 14th June 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex‑Offenders is included within the Application Guidance. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background. Early applications are encouraged, we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.
Science Technician — Lab Prep, Safety & Student Learning in Leatherhead employer: Cognita Schools
Cognita is an exceptional employer that fosters a vibrant and innovative work culture, where the passion for education and science thrives. As a Science Technician at Downsend School, you will enjoy benefits such as free lunches during term time, ongoing professional development opportunities, and a supportive environment that values collaboration and creativity. With a commitment to employee growth and a focus on making a meaningful impact in students' lives, Cognita offers a rewarding career path in a forward-thinking independent school setting.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Science Technician — Lab Prep, Safety & Student Learning in Leatherhead
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Downsend and Cognita to understand their values and mission. This will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their innovative community.
✨Tip Number 2
Network like a pro! Connect with current or former staff on LinkedIn or at local education events. Building relationships can give you insider info about the role and might even lead to a recommendation!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for practical scenarios! Since the role involves lab work and safety, think about how you'd handle specific situations. Practising your responses can help you feel more confident during the interview.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at Downsend and contributing to a vibrant learning environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Science Technician — Lab Prep, Safety & Student Learning in Leatherhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science:Let your enthusiasm for science and education shine through in your application. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to inspire students and create a vibrant learning environment.
Highlight Your Organisational Skills:Since the role involves managing lab systems and preparing materials, make sure to showcase your organisational skills. Give us examples of how you've kept things running smoothly in previous roles or projects.
Be Clear About Your Experience:If you have any relevant experience in a lab setting or with health and safety procedures, don’t hold back! We love to see how your background can contribute to our team and support our students' learning.
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you're keen to join our community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Schools
✨Know Your Science
Brush up on your science knowledge, especially the practical aspects relevant to the role. Be prepared to discuss how you would assist in demonstrations and practicals, as well as any safety protocols you’re familiar with.
✨Show Your Organisational Skills
Prepare examples of how you've managed tasks or projects in a busy environment. Highlight your attention to detail and how you ensure compliance with health and safety procedures in a lab setting.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice clear and concise communication. Think about how you would explain complex concepts to students or collaborate with teachers. Being able to convey information effectively is key in this role.
✨Demonstrate Proactivity
Think of instances where you took initiative in previous roles. Whether it was preparing lesson materials or suggesting improvements for lab systems, showing that you can be proactive will impress the interviewers.
