Science Teacher - part time in Petersfield

Ditcham Park School is a unique, successful and thriving school situated in 16 acres of the beautiful South Downs National Park. We have 400+ pupils, aged 4 to 16 years who benefit from a caring and supportive ethos and relatively small classes. GCSE results are consistently impressive and the school was ranked 14th best independent school, in category, in the country based on its GCSE results. Pupils of Ditcham Park School are proud of their vibrant learning community which is committed to providing everyone with the opportunity to discover their talents, realise their potential and become well rounded, socially responsible citizens in a school ‘where every child is known and valued’.

The Science department plays a central role in developing pupils’ curiosity, resilience and problem‑solving skills through engaging theoretical and practical learning experiences. We aim to inspire pupils to think critically, investigate independently and develop confidence in applying scientific knowledge to real‑world situations. The department follows the AQA specification for GCSE Science and teaches both separate science and combined science routes. Science contributes significantly to the school’s STEAM curriculum and works collaboratively with other departments to promote innovation, analytical thinking and awareness of future career pathways available to pupils.

We are seeking an enthusiastic and adaptable teacher to join our Science department in a part‑time teaching role – working presence and pattern to be discussed as part of the interview process. The successful candidate will teach Science across Key Stages 3 and 4, delivering engaging lessons that inspire pupils through practical investigation, enquiry‑based learning and scientific exploration. The role would suit an energetic and versatile teacher with a passion for Science education and wider school involvement.

The Role

• Plan and deliver high‑quality Science lessons.
• Teach pupils across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4.
• Create engaging and inclusive learning environments that challenge and support all pupils.
• Deliver practical and investigative lessons that promote curiosity, resilience and independence.
• Use a range of teaching strategies to maximise pupil progress and engagement.
• Maintain high expectations for behaviour, effort and presentation.
• Prepare pupils effectively for internal assessments and GCSE examinations.

Curriculum and Assessment

• Contribute to the planning and development of the Science curriculum.
• Support the continued development of STEAM initiatives across the school.
• Assess, record and report on pupil progress in line with school policies.
• Use assessment data to inform planning and targeted support.
• Support GCSE practical and examination requirements where appropriate.

Practical Responsibilities

• Promote excellent standards of health and safety within laboratories and practical teaching spaces.
• Ensure safe and responsible use of laboratory equipment, specialist apparatus and materials.
• Support the organisation and maintenance of practical resources.
• Encourage pupils to develop confidence in practical and investigative scientific skills.

Wider School Contribution

• Attend parents’ evenings, open mornings, INSET days, school events and departmental meetings as appropriate to the role.
• Contribute to extracurricular clubs, competitions and enrichment activities.
• Support STEAM extracurricular events and wider school initiatives.

Person Specification

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.
• Ability to teach Science to KS3 and KS4 in at least one Science discipline.
• Strong classroom management and organisational skills.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities.
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Enthusiasm for practical learning and STEAM education.
• An ability to teach one or more Science disciplines to GCSE level.
• Experience supporting GCSE practical work and examination preparation.
• Interest in STEAM enrichment and extracurricular activities.
• An ability to contribute to clubs, competitions or project‑based learning initiatives.

What We Offer:

• Employee Assistance Programme
• Training and professional development opportunities
• Company events
• Company pension
• School fee remission
• Free lunch
• Electric vehicle salary sacrifice scheme
• Cycle to work salary sacrifice scheme

Ditcham Park School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. A certificate of good conduct may be needed for applicants who have lived or worked overseas. This position is subject to an enhanced DBS certificate in the event of a successful application. As with all School employees, it is the School’s responsibility to adhere to and ensure compliance with the School’s Child Safeguarding Policy at all times, thus promoting and safeguarding the welfare of children and young persons with whom he/she comes into contact. If, in the course of carrying out the duties of the post, you become aware of any actual or potential risks to the safety or welfare of children in the School, you must report any concerns to the School’s Designated Safeguarding Lead. In accordance with the Health and Safety at Work Act 1974 all employees have a duty to look after their own and other’s health and safety. Ditcham Park School is an Equal Opportunity Employer.