At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic Science faculty and inspire students in Biology, Chemistry, and Physics.
- Company: Wimbledon High School, a leading girls' school with a strong STEM tradition.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, flexible pension, and generous discounts for GDST schools.
- Other info: Join a supportive community dedicated to empowering girls to excel in science.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on girls' education in STEM and champion scientific curiosity.
- Qualifications: Strong leadership skills, excellent subject knowledge, and experience in science education.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 65000 £ per year.
Contract term: Permanent
Hours: Full time
Salary: Competitive plus benefits
Required from: September 2026 or January 2027
The role
Wimbledon High School is seeking an ambitious and dynamic leader to take on the role of Director of Science. This is a rare opportunity to lead a thriving and highly successful Science faculty at one of the UK's leading girls' schools. Science occupies a central place within the life of Wimbledon High School and, in 2025, 47% of Year 13 students progressed to STEM-related degree courses. At a time when women remain underrepresented across many STEM disciplines, Wimbledon High School has a strong tradition of encouraging girls to pursue ambitious scientific pathways and careers.
As Director of Science, you will provide strategic leadership for Biology, Chemistry and Physics, working with a talented team of teachers and leaders to shape the future direction of Science across the Senior School. You will champion academic excellence, scientific enquiry and intellectual curiosity, ensuring that students are inspired by both the fundamental principles of science and the discoveries shaping the modern world. You will play a key role in curriculum development, staff leadership, enrichment and partnerships, whilst helping to maintain the outstanding culture of teaching and learning for which Wimbledon High School is known. You will also work closely with colleagues to ensure that practical science is delivered safely, effectively and to the highest professional standards. Beyond the classroom, you will help strengthen opportunities for students to engage with the wider world of science, building upon the school's strong tradition of supporting girls into Medicine, Veterinary Science, Dentistry, Natural Sciences and other STEM-related disciplines.
About you
You will possess excellent subject knowledge, strong leadership and management skills, and a deep understanding of science education. You will have a proven track record of successful middle leadership, including experience of managing and developing staff, leading curriculum development and driving improvements in teaching and learning. A thorough understanding of curriculum design, assessment and teaching and learning is essential, as is experience of developing enrichment opportunities, external partnerships and wider academic initiatives. In addition to this, you will demonstrate a strong commitment to health and safety and will have experience of leading and maintaining effective health and safety practices within a science department or faculty. You will be an intellectually curious and collaborative leader, excited by the opportunity to champion Science within a school where academic ambition, curiosity and a love of learning are deeply valued.
About Wimbledon High School
Since 1880, Wimbledon High School GDST has been educating girls to go out into the world and make a difference. Our acclaimed pastoral programme GROW, enriching co-curricular opportunities, character-forging partnerships and our ‘playful scholarship’ approach to academic life make for a compelling environment where every individual can flourish and be herself. Located in the heart of Wimbledon, we are less than 20 minutes from central London.
Benefits
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- GDST Flexible Pension Plan
- Training grants for qualifications
- Free life assurance benefit
- A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
- Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season tickets
- Cycle to Work scheme
- Competitive terms and conditions of employment
For further details and an application form please click the apply button. The closing date for applications will be 5pm on Sunday 14th June 2026. Interviews will take place on Monday 22nd June 2026. We are an equal opportunity employer and welcome applications from all qualified individuals. To be eligible for employment, candidates must provide proof of their right to work in the UK. The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.
Director of Science in London employer: GDST
Wimbledon High School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises academic excellence and personal growth. As part of the Girls' Day School Trust, employees benefit from competitive salaries, extensive professional development opportunities, and a strong commitment to diversity and inclusion. Located in the heart of Wimbledon, just 20 minutes from central London, the school provides a unique environment where educators can inspire the next generation of female scientists while enjoying a range of attractive benefits.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Science in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in STEM. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about opportunities and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for science! When you get the chance to meet potential employers, share your vision for inspiring students in STEM. Let them see your enthusiasm and commitment to academic excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching Wimbledon High School's values and initiatives. Tailor your responses to reflect how your leadership style aligns with their mission of empowering girls in science.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to 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 Wimbledon High School.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Science in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Science:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for science shine through! We want to see how you can inspire students and lead a team. Share specific examples of how you've fostered a love for science in your previous roles.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of Wimbledon High School. Highlight your experience in STEM education and how it aligns with our mission to empower girls in scientific fields.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and focus on your key achievements and leadership experiences that relate to the role of Director of Science.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive all your details correctly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community at Wimbledon High School.
How to prepare for a job interview at GDST
✨Know Your Science Inside Out
As a candidate for the Director of Science, it's crucial to have a deep understanding of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Brush up on recent developments in these fields and be ready to discuss how they can inspire students. Show your passion for science and how you can lead a team to foster that same enthusiasm.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Prepare examples of your previous leadership roles, especially in managing staff and driving curriculum development. Be specific about how you've improved teaching and learning outcomes in your past positions. This will show that you have the experience needed to lead a thriving Science faculty.
✨Engage with the School's Values
Familiarise yourself with Wimbledon High School's ethos and values, particularly their commitment to encouraging girls in STEM. Think about how you can contribute to this mission and be ready to share ideas on how to enhance opportunities for female students in scientific fields.
✨Prepare for Practical Scenarios
Since practical science is a key part of the role, be prepared to discuss how you would ensure safety and effectiveness in lab settings. Think of examples where you've successfully implemented health and safety practices in a science department, as this will demonstrate your commitment to maintaining high professional standards.
