Role: Second in Department - Science
Academy: Outwood Academy Ripon
Start Date: January 2027
Salary (Actual Salary): MPS/UPS + TLR 2.1
Working Pattern: 1 FTE, Full Time
We are seeking a dynamic and dedicated Second in Department to provide cohesive leadership and motivating direction within our faculty. In this pivotal role, you will support the Head of Department in driving innovative strategies to enhance the quality of learning, teaching, and student achievement. As a model of the Academy’s vision and values, you will be a key driver in our journey to becoming an 'outstanding' school, championing best practice and fostering a collective approach to problem-solving and curricular development.
Welcome from the Principal:
We are proud that Outwood Academy Ripon is rated Good with Outstanding features by Ofsted. We are an 11-16 academy based in the cathedral city of Ripon, near the UNESCO World Heritage Site encompassing the magnificent Studley Royal Deer Park, including the well-preserved Cistercian Fountains Abbey. Our success is one of the most impressive in North Yorkshire, and we have been recognised for our consistently excellent outcomes in progress and attainment.
Judged as Good with Outstanding features by Ofsted in 2024, the inspection stated that “Pupils are supported by caring staff who know them well”, “Pupils know that learning is important and apply themselves diligently to their work” and noted that ”the relationships between staff and students are very strong and behaviour around the academy is of a high standard".
We aim to promote the highest standards of academic achievement through inspiring teaching and learning, with a curriculum designed to stretch and enrich our students’ experience. Our success speaks for itself as we are above the national average for the number of students achieving at a Grade 5 or above in English & Maths GCSEs, and we have won numerous awards as a school including the Carnegie Mental Health Silver Award, Anti-Bullying Alliance Bronze Award and being accredited with the prestigious IQM Centre of Excellence status, which highlights that inclusion at all levels is of paramount importance to us.
Put simply, we take pride in serving the local community, ensuring everyone has a right to learn.
About the Department:
Our Science department is a team full of passionate individuals with a love for science and learning. A broad range of experience means that we constantly learn from and support each other.
Based in the 4th smallest city in the UK, surrounded by the countryside and hills of North Yorkshire. In close proximity to World Heritage sites such as Fountains Abbey and within easy reach of Harrogate and bigger cities such as Newcastle, Leeds, Sheffield and York; Ripon is a great place to work.
We pride ourselves on our supportive nature and passion for science. Practical science is at the heart of what we do and we are ably supported by an experienced technician who has the patience of a saint.
Joining our dynamic Science Department means being part of a team committed to fostering a love of science and a deep understanding of the subject. We believe that through outstanding teaching, students will leave with a better understanding of the world around them and therefore be able to make informed decisions about their life.
We run an extra-curricular programme that supports what students learn in class as well as affording them opportunities to experience science beyond the classroom.
As a member of our team you will have the opportunity to:
- Innovate: Develop creative and interactive lessons that inspire a passion for science in your students.
- Collaborate: Work with a diverse team of educators who share best practices and ideas to continually improve your teaching skills.
- Grow: Benefit from professional development opportunities and pathways to advancement within our school.
- Impact: Make a lasting impression on the lives of young learners as you nurture their scientific curiosity.
At KS3 our students study an exciting course that takes our students beyond the National Curriculum requirements. This has been developed using the collective expertise of staff across the Trust.
At KS4 we teach
AQA GCSE Biology, Chemistry, Physics
AQA Combined Trilogy Science, and
AQA Entry Level Certificate
- To view the Teaching Staff recruitment booklet for Science: Click Here
Responsibilities
The Teacher is expected to implement and use a wide range of teaching and learning strategies within the classroom, applying techniques like Assessment for Learning (AfL) to continually improve student performance. A core duty involves effectively using student level data to identify areas for development and raise standards.
This professional must be aware of strategies available for improving the learning and achievement of all students, alongside possessing a good understanding of curriculum developments within their specific subject area. The role requires maintaining high expectations for all students and effectively communicating with students and their parents, both orally and in writing. The teacher is expected to work collaboratively as part of a team, sharing good practice across the department, and demonstrating creativity in problem solving and a willingness to adopt new approaches.
Qualifications
Essential qualifications include a degree in an appropriate discipline related to the relevant subject and a teaching qualification coupled with Qualified Teacher Status (QTS). Required experience includes recent and relevant teaching experience (either in employment or training) and experience of assessment at Key Stage 3 and 4.
The successful candidate will be confident in using standard computer packages (word processing, email, and spreadsheets) and understand how these tools can enhance student learning. The role demands high levels of professionalism, including the ability to relate to students in a pleasant and sympathetic manner, and a capacity to recognise potential child safeguarding issues.
- To view the person specification please click here.
Second in Department - Science in Ripon employer: Outwood
Outwood Grange Academies Trust is an exceptional employer, dedicated to fostering a culture of collaboration and excellence within the education sector. As a Finance Manager, you will not only play a pivotal role in shaping the financial future of multiple academies but also benefit from a supportive environment that prioritises professional development and community engagement. With a commitment to high standards and transformative practices, working here means being part of a forward-thinking team that truly values its employees and their contributions to student success.
