At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Biology Department while teaching engaging classes.
- Company: Stromness Academy, a vibrant secondary school in beautiful Orkney.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, flexible working options, and relocation package available.
- Other info: Exciting opportunity for career growth in a close-knit school environment.
- Why this job: Join a supportive community and make a real difference in students' lives.
- Qualifications: Must have teaching experience and a passion for biology education.
The predicted salary is between 48700 - 48700 € per year.
You will be reporting to the Head Teacher. Your working pattern is Monday to Friday. We are happy to talk flexible working, where possible.
The purpose of this role is to lead, manage and support the work of colleagues providing strategic direction and guidance as necessary, alongside teaching assigned classes. We are looking for a committed and dynamic Principal Teacher of Biology to lead our Biology Department.
As Principal Teacher, you will be a skilled and enthusiastic educator; fully committed to the learning and teaching approaches of the school and to inspiring and motivating pupils and colleagues. You will be expected to teach Biology across the full range of our senior phase courses, and Science across S1-3.
You will be responsible for the strategic leadership of the Biology department and, alongside colleagues, the Science department. You will be responsible for self-evaluation of the department and the development and implementation of a departmental improvement plan, working with department colleagues to deliver high-quality learning and teaching for all individuals.
As part of our extended leadership team, you will contribute to whole school self-evaluation processes and the school improvement plan to ensure whole school continuous improvement.
Stromness Academy is a six-year secondary school on a well-appointed campus in Orkney, which is frequently voted the best place in the UK to bring up children. Our pupils were acknowledged by HMIE to be polite and welcoming, and a considerable strength of the school. Our catchment area covers the town of Stromness and the West Mainland, a dispersed population with over two thirds of our pupils being bussed into school. The small size of our school (approximately 350 on roll), and our classes, means we know our pupils well and can be flexible to meet their needs. We are committed to providing a positive and purposeful environment where all our pupils achieve, as set out in our school vision.
This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to become part of a forward-looking school and a rich and vibrant community.
Salary will be based on point 2 of the Principal Teacher SNCT Salary Table plus Distant Islands Allowance. 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.
This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership. Interview expenses are payable for this post. Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post.
Applications close at 23:59 on Sunday 7 June 2026 with interviews scheduled for week commencing 22 June 2026. For a discussion about the role, contact Paul Barber at paul.barber@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 850660.
Principal Teacher of Biology, Stromness Academy - ORK10364 employer: Orkney Islands Council
Stromness Academy is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and collaborative work environment where educators can thrive. With a commitment to flexible working arrangements and a focus on professional development, staff are encouraged to grow and innovate in their teaching practices. Located in the picturesque Orkney Islands, the school fosters a strong sense of community, ensuring that both staff and students feel valued and inspired to achieve their best.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal Teacher of Biology, Stromness Academy - ORK10364
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at Stromness Academy on LinkedIn or through social media. A friendly chat can give you insider info about the school culture and what they really value in a Principal Teacher.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by thinking about how you can lead and inspire the Biology department. Jot down specific examples of your teaching successes and how you've supported colleagues in the past. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your strategic thinking! Be ready to discuss your vision for the Biology department and how you plan to implement improvements. This is your chance to demonstrate how you can contribute to the whole school improvement plan.
✨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 our vibrant community at Stromness Academy.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal Teacher of Biology, Stromness Academy - ORK10364
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Biology:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Biology shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and your vision for leading the Biology Department at Stromness Academy.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the values and goals of Stromness Academy. Highlight your experience with strategic leadership and how you plan to contribute to the school's improvement plans.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and structure your thoughts logically. This will help us easily see your qualifications and fit for the role.
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 and can process your application smoothly.
How to prepare for a job interview at Orkney Islands Council
✨Know Your Biology Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your biology knowledge, especially the curriculum you'll be teaching. Be prepared to discuss specific topics and how you would engage students in learning them. This shows your passion for the subject and your ability to inspire pupils.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Principal Teacher, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Think of examples where you've successfully led a team or implemented a new strategy. Be ready to discuss how you would support and motivate your colleagues in the Biology department.
✨Understand the School's Vision
Familiarise yourself with Stromness Academy's vision and values. Be prepared to explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with their goals. This will show that you're not just looking for any job, but that you're genuinely interested in contributing to their community.
✨Prepare Questions for Them
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the school culture, the challenges the Biology department faces, and how they measure success. This demonstrates your interest in the role and helps you assess if it's the right fit for you.
