Head of Physics in North East

What skills and experience we're looking for:

• Is an outstanding A Level Physics practitioner with a proven track record of securing excellent outcomes.
• Possesses deep subject expertise and the ability to teach the full breadth of the A-Level Physics specification.
• Brings a passion for the subject that connects complex theoretical concepts to modern technological and scientific breakthroughs.
• Is a collaborative leader capable of monitoring departmental performance and implementing effective interventions to support student progress and who works collegiately within a large Faculty.

What the school offers its staff:

We are looking to recruit an exceptional Head of Physics to join our outstanding sixth form team - a leader who will drive the innovation, ambition, and student success that powers everything we do. This is an incredible opportunity to make a profound difference working with a team of like-minded professionals. At Durham Sixth Form Centre, we go beyond the curriculum to nurture tomorrow’s engineers, astrophysicists, and technical pioneers. Whether leading our high-achieving A Level cohorts or supporting the physics-based elements of our vocational pathways, you will have a national reputation for excellence behind you. This is your opportunity to lead a flagship department and shape the future of physics education.

What makes this role exciting?

• Lead a flagship academic subject: Drive the strategy, success and team in a high-profile A Level Physics department with a strong track record of results.
• Inspire elite thinkers: Challenge highly motivated students aiming for top-tier universities and careers in engineering, astrophysics, and theoretical physics.
• Mastery of Practical Science: Take oversight of the A Level Practical Endorsement, ensuring students develop the high-level laboratory skills required for undergraduate study.
• Strategic Curriculum Innovation: Shape a curriculum that balances mathematical rigor with engaging, real-world applications of physics.
• Champion STEM Excellence: Lead on physics-specific enrichment, from the Physics Olympiad to partnerships with local universities and industry leaders.

Why choose us?

• Be a part of an Investors in People: Platinum organisation.
• We are a flourishing high-performing sixth form where students achieve and exceed their potential.
• Be part of a team that’s ambitious, supportive, and driven by purpose.
• Benefit from personalised CPD, leadership coaching, and genuine career progression.

Further details about the role:

Thank you for your interest in the role of Head of Physics, a position we see as a cornerstone of the continued growth and innovation within our physics/science department and the wider STEM Faculty. At Durham Sixth Form Centre, our students are curious, motivated, and highly ambitious. Our A-Level Physics cohort is no exception. We are looking for an inspiring leader and exceptional classroom practitioner who can bring the laws of the universe to life, securing outstanding outcomes and helping every learner realise their potential in a subject that opens doors to elite careers in engineering, research, and technology.

You would be joining a thriving Science, Technology, and Mathematics Faculty. We are one of the most popular and high-achieving Faculties in the school, defined by outstanding progression rates to Russell Group universities and competitive higher apprenticeships. Our culture is one of collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement. We pride ourselves on our value-added performance, which consistently ranks well above national averages.

We are looking for someone who brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a deep-seated passion for physics education. You will be a specialist who is confident in delivering high-level theoretical content alongside rigorous practical work. Beyond the classroom, you will join a team that values professional growth; many of our staff work as examiners or lead external research, and you will be encouraged to do the same.

But beyond what you can offer us, let me tell you what we can offer you. You’ll join a sixth form school with an outstanding Ofsted track record, a national reputation for excellence, and a team that will genuinely support and invest in your development. We offer tailored CPD, leadership training, access to external networks, and opportunities to lead meaningful outreach and enrichment projects. You’ll be part of a Trust that values integrity, collaboration, and ambition - and you’ll be heard, challenged, and celebrated.

If you believe in the power of education, are passionate about physics, and want to inspire students who are ambitious, curious, and ready to be challenged, this role is for you. We’d be delighted to welcome you to our dynamic and supportive team. Thank you for considering this role at Durham Sixth Form Centre. We look forward to learning more about you and hopefully welcoming you to our team. We would strongly encourage candidates interested in this role to visit us in advance and apply early. Should you wish to discuss this role further, or to arrange a visit, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

Commitment to safeguarding:

Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment. Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance. Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant): childcare disqualification, Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), medical, online and social media prohibition from teaching, right to work, satisfactory references, suitability to work with children. You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.