At a Glance
- Tasks: Support teaching staff in Science Labs, focusing on Biology and other sciences.
- Company: Join Ferndown Upper School, a community-focused institution dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Enjoy CPD opportunities, health support, and a tax-efficient childcare scheme.
- Why this job: Be part of a supportive team with a commitment to learning and development.
- Qualifications: NVQ Level 3 or above in Science and specialist knowledge of Biology required.
- Other info: This role requires an Enhanced DBS check and values diversity in applicants.
The predicted salary is between 27500 - 28000 £ per year.
Science (Biology) Technician
Job Ref: XS4.5a
Grade 5 SCP 5-6 – £13.26 to £13.47 per hour
37 hours per week
Term time plus 5 Staff Training Days
Required to start September 2025, a Science Laboratory Technician to provide specialist technical support to teaching staff within the Science Laboratories. A specific knowledge of Biology is essential, although a flexibility to work within our other Sciences would be required.
You will:-
- Be familiar with the safe and proper use of any specialist equipment and chemicals used in the laboratories
- Have previous practical experience in a Science work area
- Be willing to learn new skills
- Have an awareness of health & safety requirements
- Possess good interpersonal skills and able to work as part of a team
You will have:-
- A vocational or academic qualification in Science at NVQ Level 3 or above
- Specialist knowledge of Biology
What Ferndown Can Offer You
- CPD opportunities and training and development programmes.
- Personalised induction, supported by a mentor.
- Eligibility to join the Local Government Pension Scheme.
- A tax efficient Childcare Scheme through salary sacrifice.
- Access to health and wellbeing support.
- Private Healthcare Cash Plan including 24/7 access to a GP by phone, gym discounts, cashback for optical, dental and other appointment expenses for employees and their children.
- Access to staff benefits and discounts portal through Dorset Council.
Application Form and Job Description available via Dorset Jobs or our school website. If you require any further information, please contact Andrea Baxter in the HR Office on 01202 871243 [email protected]
Closing date: midnight Sunday 31st August 2025
Further Information
This school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful candidate will be required to have an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check (formerly CRB) in line with the Governments safer recruitment guidelines.
Ferndown Upper School values the diversity of our workforce and welcome applications from all sections of the community.
This role is UK based and your Right to Work will need to be established as part of the appointment process.
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. The amendments to the ROA 1974 (Exceptions Order 1975, (2013 and 2020) provide that when applying for certain jobs and activities, certain spent convictions and cautions are ‘protected’, so they do not need to be disclosed to employers, and if they are disclosed, employers cannot take them into account. The MOJ’s guidance on the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the Exceptions Order 1975, provides information about which convictions must be declared during job applications and related exceptions and further information about filtering offences can be found in the DBS filtering guide.
Ferndown Upper School will conduct online searches of shortlisted candidates. This check will be part of a safeguarding check, and the search will purely be based on whether an individual is suitable to work with children. As care must be taken to avoid unconscious bias and any risk of discrimination, a person who will not be on the appointment panel will conduct the searches and will only share information if and when findings are relevant and of concern.
The pro rata salary shown is based on the number of hours and weeks worked and includes appropriate paid annual leave and bank holiday entitlements.
The salary quoted is the annual salary for the position at the time of advert. The salary will be paid in equal monthly instalments and will be adjusted at the start of employment and again if leaving part way through the school year to ensure the correct salary is received for the work completed in an academic year.
About Us
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Science (Biology) Technician at Ferndown Upper School employer: Dorset Council
Contact Detail:
Dorset Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Science (Biology) Technician at Ferndown Upper School
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the specific equipment and chemicals used in biology labs. This knowledge will not only help you during the interview but also demonstrate your commitment to safety and proper lab practices.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff at Ferndown Upper School or similar institutions. They can provide insights into the school culture and expectations, which can be invaluable during your application process.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your willingness to learn new skills by researching recent developments in biology and laboratory techniques. Being up-to-date will impress the hiring team and show that you're proactive.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare for potential questions about teamwork and interpersonal skills. Think of examples from your past experiences where you've successfully collaborated with others, as this is crucial for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Science (Biology) Technician at Ferndown Upper School
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Read the job description carefully to understand the specific requirements for the Science (Biology) Technician position. Highlight your relevant experience and skills that align with the responsibilities mentioned.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV reflects your qualifications and experience in Biology and other sciences. Emphasise any practical experience you have in a laboratory setting, as well as your familiarity with health and safety protocols.
Craft a Strong Cover Letter: Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for science and your ability to support teaching staff effectively. Mention your willingness to learn new skills and how you can contribute to the team at Ferndown Upper School.
Proofread Your Application: Before submitting your application, double-check for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application demonstrates attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial in a technical role.
How to prepare for a job interview at Dorset Council
✨Know Your Biology
Make sure you brush up on your biology knowledge before the interview. Be prepared to discuss specific topics or techniques relevant to the role, as this will demonstrate your expertise and passion for the subject.
✨Familiarise Yourself with Lab Equipment
Since the role involves working with specialist equipment, it’s crucial to be familiar with its safe and proper use. Be ready to talk about any previous experience you have with lab equipment and how you ensure safety in a laboratory setting.
✨Show Your Team Spirit
The job requires good interpersonal skills and teamwork. Think of examples from your past experiences where you successfully collaborated with others, and be prepared to share these during the interview.
✨Emphasise Your Willingness to Learn
Highlight your eagerness to learn new skills and adapt to different scientific areas. This shows that you are flexible and open-minded, which is essential for a technician role that may require working across various sciences.