Teacher of Biology

University College School was founded in 1830 to promote principles of liberal scholarship. That remains our first and overriding aim. Intellectual curiosity, breadth of study and independence of mind combine to achieve academic excellence; they are not subordinate to it. UCS remains true to the liberal traditions of its founders and continues to work hard to foster independence of mind among its pupils, to value their individuality and to create a diverse and inclusive community. Academic results are excellent. Music and drama are very strong at UCS and the school offers an outstanding range of co-curricular activities and enrichment opportunities.

The Present Vacancy

The current vacancy is a permanent Full-time post. It offers an exciting opportunity for an enthusiastic teacher to develop, or start, their career in a lively and innovative setting as part of a dynamic, supportive and collaborative department. The successful applicant will be a strong graduate of a relevant degree course, with a deep passion for Biology and the ability to convey this effectively to pupils across all age groups.

This is an outstanding opportunity to teach Biology at a high level in a congenial and stimulating setting. It should, therefore, be attractive to an ECT (UCS offers full statutory induction), or to a serving teacher seeking wider experience. We welcome equally applications from teachers in the maintained sector and the independent sector.

A willingness to contribute to the co-curricular life of the school will be an additional and important recommendation. We expect all of our teachers to be Form Tutors.

The Biology Department

Biology at UCS offers pupils the opportunity to explore the living world in depth through a curriculum that combines scientific rigour with curiosity and discovery. Dedicated laboratories provide excellent facilities for practical work, and pupils develop both their theoretical understanding and their investigative skills from the earliest stages of study.

From Year 8 onwards, Biology is taught as a separate science, with pupils following the Edexcel IGCSE course from Year 9. The subject is consistently popular and results are outstanding, with around 80% of pupils achieving grades 8–9 in 2025. Biology also attracts large numbers at A Level, where the OCR A specification is followed; more than 90% of pupils typically achieve grades A*–B, and many progress to study Biology and related disciplines at leading universities.

Enrichment opportunities are integral to the department. A pupil-led Biology Society organises weekly clubs, welcomes visiting speakers, and promotes participation in national competitions such as the Biology Challenge and Olympiad. Fieldwork is a particular strength, with an annual residential course at an FSC Centre complemented by a departmental photography competition. These activities encourage pupils to extend their knowledge, apply concepts in new contexts, and develop an enduring enthusiasm for the subject.

Salary and Benefits

UCS has its own competitive salary scale. The payment for this post will be dependent upon qualifications and experience, but will be above the national scale.

• While the school does not offer accommodation, schemes are in place to assist members of staff with loans for house purchase.
• The school is similarly prepared to offer loans to help with daily travel expenses.
• In all cases, eligibility for financial assistance is carefully and independently scrutinised and every effort is made to assess the needs of individual applicants.
• If admitted to the school, the children of UCS staff may be educated at reduced fees.
• All members of staff are entitled to membership of UCS Active (the private Health & Fitness Club based in the Sir Roger Bannister Sports Centre) at a heavily reduced rate.

University College School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS check before commencing employment. This is a requirement as the position is within a school working with children aged under 18. UCS will also undertake its own recruitment checks through contact with previous employers, and others, to confirm applicants' identities and their professional records.

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