Head of Chemistry

Education Authority Northern Ireland
Onsite

About The Position

This document outlines the professional duties and requirements for a teacher, specifically focusing on the role of Head of Chemistry. It details the general professional duties, particular duties, planning, assessment, staff development, discipline, health and safety, public examinations, and administrative tasks expected of a teacher. It also specifies the number of days and hours of work, and conditions for staff cover. The document emphasizes the importance of promoting good relations, equality of opportunity, and adhering to equality legislation. The person specification outlines essential and desirable criteria for the role, including qualifications, experience, knowledge, skills, and values orientation. It also mentions the process for shortlisting and interview, as well as requirements for criminal background checks.

Requirements

  • Hold a teaching qualification which meets the requirements for recognition to teach in grant-aided schools in Northern Ireland.
  • Hold a degree or equivalent Level 6 qualification which has prepared the applicant to teach Chemistry as his/her main subject.
  • Minimum of 5 years’ (within the last 10 years) demonstrable experience of teaching Chemistry to GCSE level to achieve positive learning outcomes.
  • Minimum of 3 years’ (within the last 8 years) demonstrable experience of teaching Chemistry to A level to achieve positive learning outcomes.
  • Demonstrable experience of using data/self-evaluation strategies to plan and deliver improvement.
  • Demonstrable evidence of successfully contributing to a team in a school setting.
  • Demonstrable evidence of using self-evaluation to effect improvement in an area of school life.
  • Be registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) before taking up post.
  • Knowledge of the GCSE and A Level Chemistry syllabus.
  • Knowledge of Northern Ireland Curriculum.
  • Knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding and Child Protection policy/practice.
  • Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice.
  • Knowledge of a range of teaching strategies to suit pupils with different abilities.
  • Knowledge of Information Technology systems such as digital classroom tools/media and the use of tablets/mobile technologies.
  • Knowledge of current assessment methods to inform teaching.
  • Effective teaching and classroom management skills to inspire and challenge pupils to raise achievement.
  • Proven ability to provide a supportive, inclusive learning environment.
  • Ability to work collaboratively to promote positive relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents and the wider community.
  • Ability to work as an effective member of a team, and to motivate self and others.
  • Evidence of how your experience and approach to work reflect the School’s Values/ethos.

Nice To Haves

  • Demonstrable experience of managing people and/or co-ordinating an area of the curriculum in a school setting.
  • Ability and willingness to contribute to the extra-curricular life of the school.

Responsibilities

  • Exercise general professional duties as circumstances require, under the reasonable direction of the principal or employing board.
  • Perform particular duties as reasonably assigned by the principal or employing board.
  • Plan and prepare courses and lessons.
  • Teach pupils according to their educational needs, setting and marking work.
  • Assess, record, and report on pupil development, progress, and attainment.
  • Promote the general progress and well-being of individual pupils and groups.
  • Provide advice and guidance to pupils on educational, social matters, further education, and future careers.
  • Make records of and reports on the personal and social needs of pupils.
  • Communicate and consult with the parents of pupils.
  • Communicate and co-operate with external bodies as approved.
  • Participate in meetings arranged for the above purposes.
  • Provide or contribute to oral and written assessments, reports, and references relating to pupils.
  • Participate in staff development and performance review schemes.
  • Review teaching methods and programmes of work.
  • Participate in further training and professional development.
  • Advise and co-operate with the Principal and other teachers on curriculum, teaching materials, programmes, methods, and pastoral arrangements.
  • Maintain good order and discipline among pupils and safeguard their health and safety.
  • Participate in school meetings related to curriculum, administration, organisation, and pastoral arrangements.
  • Prepare pupils for public examinations and participate in assessment and supervision for these examinations.
  • Contribute to the selection and professional development of other teachers, including induction and assessment of probationary teachers.
  • Co-ordinate or manage the work of other teachers.
  • Take part in the review, development, and management of curriculum, organisation, and pastoral functions.
  • Participate in administrative and organisational tasks, including managing support staff and ordering equipment.
  • Attend assemblies.
  • Register pupil attendance and supervise pupils.
  • Supervise and teach any pupils whose teacher is not available, under specified conditions.
  • Promote good relations, equality of opportunity, and pay due regard to equality legislation.

Benefits

  • Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background Certificate (cost to be met by the applicant).
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