Second in Department - Science

Safeguarding Commitment

Dubai British School Jumeirah Park is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting student welfare. All staff are expected to uphold high standards of child protection practices, and all successful applicants will undergo comprehensive background checks

Job Purpose

The Second in Department for Science plays a key leadership role in supporting the delivery of an outstanding academic programme, aligned with the KHDA framework for Outstanding education. Working closely with the Head of Department, this role contributes to shaping a culture of high expectations, inclusive practice, and academic ambition across Biology, Chemistry, and Physics. The Second in Department leads by example, supports the development of colleagues, and plays a pivotal part in ensuring the department consistently delivers excellent outcomes for students.

Key Responsibilities

Curriculum and Pedagogical Support

• Support the development, review, and implementation of a coherent and challenging Science curriculum aligned with the British National Curriculum and school vision.

• Contribute to the design and refinement of schemes of work that promote scientific literacy, practical enquiry, conceptual understanding, and critical thinking.

• Model high-quality teaching and support the Head of Department in embedding effective pedagogical approaches across the Science team.

Student Progress and Data

• Work with the Head of Department to analyse student progress data across key stages, identify trends and support staff to address underachievement through targeted interventions.

• Lead small-scale data projects or focus groups, such as practical skills, exam techniques, or stretch and challenge, and monitor their impact.

Teaching and Learning Development

• Support the professional development of departmental staff through mentoring, coaching, and peer observation.

• Contribute to the planning and delivery of department CPD and ensure best practice is shared across the team.

• Promote a reflective teaching culture where all staff are committed to continual improvement in Science teaching.

Quality Assurance

• Assist in the quality assurance of teaching and learning through book looks, learning walks, and lesson observations.

• Ensure consistency in assessment practices, feedback, and lesson planning in line with departmental and whole school expectations.

Operational Support

• Assist with the organisation of timetables, intervention groups, resource management, and the maintenance of safe and purposeful laboratory environments.

• Take responsibility for specific departmental logistics, such as key stage coordination, STEM initiatives, practical equipment oversight, or enrichment programmes.

Examinations and Assessment

• Support the Head of Department in overseeing internal and external assessments, including GCSE and practical endorsement processes.

• Ensure assessment data is accurately recorded, tracked, and used to inform teaching and intervention strategies.

Transition and Curriculum Continuity

• Contribute to transition planning between key stages and support the alignment of learning from KS3 to KS4 and beyond.

• Play an active role in supporting students’ preparation for A Level Sciences, contributing to Sixth Form taster sessions or enrichment.

Student Engagement and Culture

• Champion a love of Science through enrichment activities such as competitions, trips, clubs, STEM events, and student led initiatives.

• Promote student voice and leadership within the department, helping to create an inclusive and aspirational Science learning culture.

Communication and Collaboration

• Maintain strong working relationships with parents, pastoral leads, technicians, and wider curriculum colleagues.

• Deputise for the Head of Department when required and represent the department at relevant meetings.

Person Specification

Qualifications

A degree in Science or a related discipline and a recognised teaching qualification.

Experience

• Strong classroom practitioner with a record of securing excellent student outcomes in Science.

• Experience in a leadership or whole school initiative role is desirable.

Skills and Attributes

• Confident in the use of data to inform planning and intervention.

• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to motivate others.

• Organised, proactive, and adaptable to the needs of a dynamic school environment.

• A reflective practitioner with a growth mindset, committed to professional development and collaborative working.