Head of Mathematics in Melrose

St. Mary’s Preparatory School is a leading independent Day and Flexi-Boarding School for pupils aged 2–13 years, situated in the beautiful and historic town of Melrose in the Scottish Borders. A twice-hourly train service from Edinburgh makes the school accessible from the capital city by rail.

We invite applications from inspiring, passionate and ambitious practitioners to lead our Mathematics Department from January 2027. As well as teaching Mathematics to the highest standard, including preparation for ISEB Common Entrance, the successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to leading and motivating both pupils and staff across the department.

At St. Mary’s, we believe that a strong understanding of mathematics is fundamental to a well-rounded education. We are committed to ensuring that every child:

• Enjoys learning mathematics
• Develops fluency in key mathematical skills
• Understands the application of mathematics in real-life contexts
• Builds resilience and confidence in problem solving
• Appreciates the power and beauty of mathematics
• Is fully prepared for Common Entrance and senior school mathematics

The successful candidate will take responsibility for leading mathematics teaching and learning across the whole school, from Reception to Form 8, while teaching senior pupils, typically within the two highest year groups.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the following qualities:

• A passion for teaching Mathematics
• A high level of academic qualification in Mathematics and/or experience teaching to Common Entrance core and additional levels (or equivalent) and beyond
• An ambition to elicit the very best from every pupil through challenging, engaging and differentiated lessons
• The ability to plan and deliver a curriculum that is progressive, coherent, creative and innovative
• A commitment to developing mathematical understanding through real-life application and problem solving
• The ability to lead, inspire and support colleagues in the delivery of the mathematics curriculum across the whole school
• Experience of monitoring teaching and learning and modelling excellent classroom practice
• The ability to develop and maintain effective assessment, tracking and reporting systems to monitor pupil progress and attainment
• The confidence to lead departmental development, including resources, enrichment opportunities (e.g. UK Mathematics Trust challenges), and cross-curricular links
• A sound understanding of Microsoft products, in particular Teams, and a desire to employ digital technology to enhance teaching and learning
• Excellent organisational, leadership and administrative skills
• The ability to work collaboratively within a collegiate environment and contribute fully to the life of the school
• An interest in coaching rugby, hockey and cricket would be desirable but not essential

Key Responsibilities

Teaching, Learning and Curriculum

• Lead and oversee mathematics provision across the school from Reception to Form 8
• Ensure a coherent, progressive curriculum that prepares pupils effectively for ISEB Common Entrance
• Model outstanding teaching practice and support high-quality delivery across all classes
• Promote engagement, enjoyment and resilience in mathematics learning
• Coordinate enrichment opportunities and mathematical competitions

Leadership and Management

• Lead and manage the Mathematics Department, including meetings, planning and development
• Support and mentor colleagues through observation, feedback and professional guidance
• Contribute to staffing decisions and resource management
• Represent the department in wider school discussions and planning forums.

Assessment and Monitoring

• Develop and maintain effective assessment systems to track pupil progress
• Analyse performance data to identify strengths, gaps and trends
• Work closely with the Director of Studies and colleagues to support pupil achievement, including Common Entrance processes
• Ensure accuracy and consistency in reporting and assessment practices

The successful candidate will become part of a staff team that collaborates effectively to develop ambitious, confident and caring young people who strive to achieve their best in all areas of school life. Staff are expected to contribute to the co-curricular programme and attend key school events, including occasional evenings and weekends, as directed by the Headmaster.

This is a full-time permanent position, with salary dependent on qualifications and experience. Lodgings are available for the successful candidate if relocating.