Biology Teacher - A reputed school (A/O Level)

Job Description: Biology Teacher (A-Level/IGCSE - Cambridge Curriculum)

Role Overview
We are seeking a dedicated and passionate Biology Teacher to join our academic team. The successful candidate will teach Biology at both IGCSE and A-Level (Cambridge Curriculum) to students aged 16-18. This role involves delivering engaging and inspiring lessons that help students develop a deep understanding of biological concepts, encourage critical thinking, and prepare them for academic success.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Teaching

• Teach Biology at IGCSE and A-Level, delivering well-structured and stimulating lessons that engage students and foster a love for the subject.
• Plan and deliver lessons in line with the schools curriculum, ensuring that content is accessible and appropriately challenging for all students, including those with SEND, EAL, and those who are ‘more able’.
• Use a variety of teaching methods, including practical experiments, case studies, and digital tools, to support students’ learning and stimulate curiosity in the biological sciences.
• Set high expectations for student performance, behavior, and engagement, creating an environment where students feel encouraged to take academic risks and explore the subject in depth.
• Continuously assess student progress through formative and summative assessments, providing timely and constructive feedback to guide improvement.
• Foster critical thinking and independent inquiry, encouraging students to develop their analytical and problem-solving skills in biology.

Assessment & Reporting

• Take responsibility for the attainment and progress of students, ensuring they achieve the learning objectives of the curriculum.
• Mark and assess students’ work regularly in accordance with the school’s marking policy, offering feedback that promotes reflection and academic growth.
• Write academic reports according to the school’s schedule, providing detailed and constructive feedback on students’ strengths, areas for development, and overall progress.
• Attend Parent-Teacher meetings and communicate effectively with parents about their child’s academic progress and well-being.
• Use assessment data to inform future lesson planning, ensuring lessons are differentiated and support students’ individual learning needs.

Wider Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues within the Biology Department and across other departments to share best practices, resources, and ideas for teaching and learning.
• Assist with extra-curricular activities such as science clubs, field trips, and after-school revision sessions, as directed by the Head of Department.
• Provide cover teaching for colleagues within the department and across the school as needed.
• Participate in staff development opportunities, including induction, performance management, and appraisal processes.
• Contribute to the development of super-curricular activities, such as student-led biology projects, competitions, and school outreach programs.

Pastoral and Co-Curricular

• Play an active role in the pastoral life of the school, supporting students’ emotional and social development.
• Act as a Personal Tutor for a group of students, providing guidance and support to help them achieve their academic and personal goals.
• Participate in the school’s co-curricular activities, including biology-related clubs, school trips, and educational initiatives.
• Foster a sense of responsibility in students, encouraging them to respect the environment and make informed decisions regarding biological issues.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Experience

• A good honours degree in Biology or a closely related subject (applications from final-year university students are welcome).
• Proven experience teaching Biology at IGCSE and/or A-Level in the Cambridge curriculum.
• A teaching qualification (PGCE, QTS, or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential.
• A passion for biology and a commitment to nurturing students' interest in the biological sciences.

Skills and Abilities

• Strong subject knowledge in both the theory and practical aspects of Biology, with the ability to teach a wide range of topics effectively.
• The ability to design and deliver engaging lessons that challenge and inspire students to develop a deep understanding of biological concepts.
• Proficiency in using various teaching methods, including practical laboratory work, field studies, digital resources, and inquiry-based learning.
• Strong assessment and feedback skills, with the ability to help students improve their understanding and skills through constructive criticism.
• Excellent organizational skills, with the ability to manage classroom activities, experiments, and coursework deadlines.

Personal Attributes

• Excellent communication skills, both oral and written, with the ability to engage students in thoughtful discussions and foster a passion for biology.
• A professional, caring, and compassionate approach to working with students, with a focus on their academic and personal development.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, collaborating effectively with colleagues across the school.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Flexibility and willingness to contribute to the broader life of the school, including extracurricular activities and school events.

Additional Requirements

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students.
• Willingness to engage in extracurricular activities, such as science clubs, field trips, and school events.
• Availability to work some evenings and weekends for activities such as science fairs, fieldwork, and parent consultations.