At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in a hands-on science lab environment, ensuring safety and resource management.
- Company: Thurstable School, an Ofsted rated good academy with a focus on innovation and character growth.
- Benefits: Part-time hours, supportive professional development, and a positive work culture.
- Other info: Enjoy a mobile phone-free environment and a two-week October half term break.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in education while developing your leadership skills in a vibrant school community.
- Qualifications: Experience in science labs and strong communication skills are essential.
The predicted salary is between 30000 - 40000 £ per year.
We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Senior Science Technician to lead our technician team and sit at the heart of a thriving science department. Working closely with the Head of Science, you will ensure our laboratories are safe, well-resourced and ready to deliver an outstanding curriculum every day.
This is a hands-on role where no two days are the same. You will manage budgets, oversee stock and ordering, line manage a small team, and play a key part in open evenings and activities week. You'll be confident enough to contribute ideas alongside teaching staff and proactive enough to resolve problems before they reach your Head of Science.
Day to day, you will prepare equipment and materials for practical lessons across Biology, Chemistry and Physics, ensuring laboratories are safe, organised and fully equipped for teaching across KS3 and KS4. You will support teachers during practical activities, maintain equipment to a high standard, and keep stock levels well managed.
To succeed in this role you will need to be confident leading, managing and developing a small team, with excellent communication and organisational skills. You will be flexible, calm under pressure and able to use your own initiative. Knowledge of COSHH and CLEAPSS is desirable but not essential.
Key responsibilities include:
- Line managing and appraising the technician team
- Preparing and clearing practical equipment
- Tracking the departmental budget and completing end-of-year orders
Based outside of Colchester, we are a semi-rural 11-16 school which serves Tiptree and its surrounding villages. We are an Ofsted rated good in all areas (May, 2025) stand alone academy which allies traditional values with highly innovative practices.
Thurstable School has a clear mission of building knowledge and growing character. Underpinning these are our strong values of aspire, respect and endeavour. They are part of our DNA and inform all of our interactions and decisions at the school.
We pride ourselves on promoting the well-being of all of our staff. There are no after school meetings as there is 1h 25 minutes each week of CPD, much of which is allocated to departments to provide subject specific training, sharing of best practice and curriculum development.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
Science Lab Lead Technician in Colchester employer: Shorefields
Thurstable School is an exceptional employer that fosters a supportive and innovative work environment, prioritising the well-being and professional growth of its staff. With a strong commitment to high-quality coaching and training, employees benefit from a collaborative culture that values their contributions and encourages personal development. Located in a semi-rural area outside Colchester, the school offers unique advantages such as a two-week October half-term break and a mobile phone-free policy, creating a focused and enriching atmosphere for both staff and students.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Science Lab Lead Technician in Colchester
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work in science departments. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by practising common questions related to lab management and team leadership. We suggest role-playing with a friend to boost your confidence and refine your answers.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your hands-on experience! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've managed lab resources or led a team. This will demonstrate your capability and fit for the Science Lab Lead Technician role.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Science Lab Lead Technician in Colchester
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to highlight how your skills and experiences align with the role of Science Lab Lead Technician. We want to see how you can contribute to our thriving science department!
Show Your Enthusiasm:Let your passion for science and education shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are excited about leading a team and making a difference in our students' learning experiences.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to describe your relevant experience and skills, so we can easily see why you’d be a great fit for our team.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role of Science Lab Lead Technician.
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know Your Science Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. Be prepared to discuss specific experiments or techniques relevant to the curriculum. This will show that you're not just a technician but someone who can actively contribute to the teaching process.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a lead technician, you'll be managing a small team. Think about examples from your past where you've successfully led a team or resolved conflicts. Highlight your communication skills and how you can motivate others to ensure a smooth operation in the lab.
✨Demonstrate Problem-Solving Abilities
Be ready to discuss how you've tackled challenges in previous roles. Whether it's managing budgets or ensuring safety standards, having concrete examples will illustrate your proactive approach and ability to think on your feet.
✨Align with Their Values
Familiarise yourself with the school's mission and values, such as 'aspire, respect, and endeavour'. During the interview, weave these values into your responses to show that you're not just a fit for the role, but also for the school culture.
