At a Glance
- Tasks: Teach Chemistry to enthusiastic students and inspire them to excel.
- Company: Join Kirkwall Grammar School, a vibrant community-focused school in Orkney.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation package available.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while enjoying the beauty of Orkney.
- Qualifications: Must be registered with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
The predicted salary is between 38019 - 55737 £ per year.
Advert Teacher of Chemistry Kirkwall Grammar School 21 hours per week (0.6 FTE) Permanent £38,019 - £55,737 pro rata The above amounts include Distand Islands Allowance.
You will be reporting to Dr Erland Johnston, Principal Teacher Science.
The working pattern is Monday to Wednesday.
We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
KGS is a vibrant school of around 860 pupils with a catchment area which covers Kirkwall, the East Mainland, Orphir and the North and South Isles.
Around 60 of our young people are accommodated in Papdale Halls of Residence during term time.
The school building is modern, bright and well-resourced.
Young people in Orkney benefit from free instrumental tuition from a talented team of instrumental instructors and the school has a strong tradition of music.
We are looking for an enthusiastic and skilled teacher, able to teach Chemistry across all curricular stages.
You will be committed to improvement and excellence and have a genuine interest in supporting young people to achieve their best.
This will be reflected in a strong focus on positive outcomes for all young people through the development of high-quality learning and teaching and an inclusive curriculum.
You will have the ability to develop and sustain effective relationships across the school community.
Orkney is a place of significant natural beauty, with a rich heritage.
The old and the new collide where World Heritage Archaeological Sites look over sector leading renewables research facilities.
This, along with a rich and diverse flora and fauna, provides interesting and relevant contexts for pupils to engage in the learning process.
The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile.
These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.
You must be registered, or in the process of registering, with the General Teaching Council for Scotland.
Salary is be based on the Main Grade Scale of the SNCT Salary Tables plus a Distant Islands Allowance.
This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.
Interview expenses are payable for this post, click here for further information .
Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post, click here for the Relocation Policy .
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 30 August 2026, with shortlisting taking place on 31 August 2026 and interviews scheduled for 10 September 2026.
For a discussion about the role, contact Dr Erland Johnston, Principal Teacher, at erland. johnston@glow. orkneyschools. org. uk or on 01856 872102.
We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process .
Orkney Islands Council is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates regardless of age, gender, race or ethnicity, disability, religion or belief, sexual orientation, marriage or civil partnership status, pregnancy or maternity status or gender reassignment status.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Teacher of Chemistry, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10579
✨Get Involved in the Chemistry Community
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We think you need these skills to ace Teacher of Chemistry, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10579
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Off Your Lab Skills:When applying for a chemistry position, make sure to highlight any lab experience you've got. Mention specific techniques and instruments you've worked with, as they can set you apart from other candidates. For us, demonstrating your practical skills is as important as your theoretical knowledge!
Tailor Your CV to Chemistry:It's essential to structure your CV in a way that’s appealing for a chemistry role. Highlight relevant projects, research publications, and coursework that demonstrate your expertise. If you’ve completed specific certifications, make sure to list those as well—they can really boost your chances!
Craft a Chemistry-Focused Cover Letter:In your cover letter, share your enthusiasm for the field of chemistry and why you want to work at Orkney Islands Council. Talk about any research or projects that inspire you, and express your willingness to contribute to the team. We love seeing genuine passion for chemistry in applications!
Include Relevant References:Since chemistry roles can be quite specific, having reference letters from professors or previous employers in the field can be a huge plus. Make sure to include contacts who can vouch for your skills and dedication, as it adds credibility to your application.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Experiments
Get ready to chat about your hands-on experience in the lab. We should be prepared to discuss specific experiments we've conducted, the results, and any challenges we faced. This shows them we don't just know the theory but can apply it in practice!
✨Master the Technical Speak
Brush up on the relevant terminology and concepts in chemistry. Make sure we can discuss different chemical processes, analytical techniques, and safety protocols fluently, as they might throw some technical questions our way. Being precise and confident can really set us apart!
✨Show Off Your Projects
Make a portfolio showcasing our best lab work and any research projects we've been involved in. It's a great way to demonstrate our skills and passion for chemistry. We should tailor it to highlight the aspects most relevant to Orkney Islands Council and the Teacher of Chemistry, Kirkwall Grammar School - ORK10579 role.
✨Be Ready for Problem Solving
Expect some scenario-based questions where we might need to solve chemical problems on the spot. They could ask about unexpected results or how to improve a process. Let's practice thinking on our feet and explaining our thought process clearly!
