At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Biology department and enhance curriculum delivery for KS4 students.
- Company: Join a forward-thinking, inclusive secondary school in Cheltenham with a strong support system.
- Benefits: Enjoy excellent CPD opportunities, career progression, and a collaborative faculty environment.
- Other info: Start date is September 2025; TLR2a salary offered.
- Why this job: Shape the future of Biology education while teaching motivated students in a beautiful location.
- Qualifications: Biology degree, QTS, and at least three years of successful science teaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 Β£ per year.
A forward-thinking and inclusive secondary school in Cheltenham is looking to appoint a skilled Second in Biology to help lead a high-performing and well-resourced department from September 2025. This role provides an excellent leadership opportunity for an ambitious teacher ready to take on increased responsibility within a thriving team.
About the School
The school is part of a highly respected trust, known for its inclusive ethos, ambitious curriculum, and strong support for staff development. It offers a broad and balanced science curriculum, with a particular focus on active learning and evidence-informed practice.
Biology Department
Students study general science at KS3 and choose separate or combined science at KS4. Biology is consistently one of the highest-performing subjects, and many students go on to study it at A-Level. The department embraces outdoor learning, dissections, microscopy, and real-world links in every topic.
Your Role
As Second in Biology, you will take a lead on KS4 provision, ensuring consistency in curriculum delivery, assessment, and student outcomes. You will mentor staff, lead CPD sessions, coordinate revision strategies, and enhance teaching and learning through the development of new resources and enrichment opportunities.
Ideal Candidate
- A Biology degree and QTS
- At least three years of successful science teaching experience
- A strong understanding of curriculum design and assessment
- Experience mentoring or coaching colleagues
- A desire to innovate and foster student love for biological sciences
Why Apply?
- Work in a collaborative and supportive Science faculty
- Help shape the direction of Biology provision in a thriving school
- Access excellent CPD and career progression routes
- Teach motivated students in a beautiful part of the Cotswolds
Second in Biology in Cheltenham employer: Wayman Education
Join a forward-thinking and inclusive secondary school in Cheltenham, where you will have the opportunity to lead a high-performing Biology department within a supportive and collaborative environment. With a strong commitment to staff development and innovative teaching practices, this role offers excellent career progression and the chance to inspire motivated students in the beautiful Cotswolds. Embrace the opportunity to shape the future of biological sciences while enjoying a fulfilling work culture that values inclusivity and professional growth.
StudySmarter Expert Adviceπ€«
We think this is how you could land Second in Biology in Cheltenham
β¨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the school's ethos and values. Since the school prides itself on inclusivity and a strong support system, demonstrating your alignment with these principles during any interactions can set you apart.
β¨Tip Number 2
Engage with current trends in biology education and be prepared to discuss innovative teaching methods. Showing that you're up-to-date with evidence-informed practices will highlight your commitment to enhancing student learning.
β¨Tip Number 3
Network with professionals in the field of biology education. Attend relevant workshops or conferences where you can meet educators from similar backgrounds, as personal connections can often lead to job opportunities.
β¨Tip Number 4
Prepare to showcase your mentoring experience. As the role involves leading CPD sessions and supporting colleagues, being able to provide examples of how you've successfully mentored others will demonstrate your leadership potential.
We think you need these skills to ace Second in Biology in Cheltenham
Some tips for your application π«‘
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in teaching Biology, particularly any leadership roles or mentoring experiences. Emphasise your understanding of curriculum design and assessment, as these are key aspects of the role.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:In your cover letter, express your passion for Biology and your commitment to fostering a love for the subject among students. Mention specific examples of how you've innovated in your teaching or contributed to departmental success.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves mentoring staff and leading CPD sessions, be sure to include any relevant leadership experiences. Discuss how you have successfully supported colleagues in their professional development.
Showcase Your Understanding of Active Learning:The school values active learning and evidence-informed practice. Include examples of how you have implemented these strategies in your teaching, such as outdoor learning or real-world applications in your lessons.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wayman Education
β¨Show Your Passion for Biology
Make sure to express your enthusiasm for the subject during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and your vision for fostering a love of biology in the classroom.
β¨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As a Second in Biology, you'll be expected to lead and mentor others. Prepare to discuss your previous experiences in leadership roles, including any mentoring or coaching you've done, and how you plan to support your colleagues in this new position.
β¨Highlight Your Curriculum Knowledge
Be ready to talk about your understanding of curriculum design and assessment strategies. Discuss how you would ensure consistency in curriculum delivery and student outcomes, particularly at KS4, as this is a key aspect of the role.
β¨Prepare for Questions on Innovation
The school values innovation in teaching. Think about how you've incorporated new resources or enrichment opportunities in your lessons before. Be prepared to share ideas on how you would enhance teaching and learning in the Biology department.