Subject Leader – Physics

Are you an innovative, enthusiastic and passionate Physicist?

Then this will be the job for you.

This post provides a unique opportunity to work within a high-performing and growing 11 to 18 grammar school with a large sixth form and exceptional students.

We are proud to be Secondary School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2025, Ranked No 1 in the North of England - The Sunday Times Schools Guide 2025.

We would like to appoint an outstanding Subject Leader of Physics.

We provide an exciting, deep and rewarding experience of Physics and to this end we can offer an excellent opportunity for a colleague possessing a secure A-level subject knowledge; but most importantly great enthusiasm, commitment and wide-ranging interest in the subject, up to date with a broad range of teaching methods and the ability to support, motivate and encourage our students at the very highest standard.

The department has five Physics specialist teachers. We have a long track record of excellent results at GCSE and A-level; and over recent years we have steadily and consistently increased the number of A-level students. Physics is delivered as a stand-alone subject from Year 8, with students commencing the Physics GCSE course in Year 9. We provide separate AQA GCSE Physics for all students and teach OCR Physics A at A-level. Finally, we make much use of ICT teaching resources and techniques.

Physics is well known amongst the students for being a popular subject with keen staff who communicate their love of the subject very effectively. Many of our students progress as a result to related university courses and continue their enjoyment of Physics well beyond their school days.

Last year students achieved 99% grade 9-5 and 79% grade 9-7 at GCSE and72.2% A*- C at A-Level. We strive to improve our results year on year.

The department is always looking at ways of developing its curriculum and widening the experience for students so expert subject knowledge and a passion to lead extra-curricular activities in Physics are highly desirable.

We take great pride in providing our students with a first-class education and instilling them with a love of learning.

For the Physics department at Heckmondwike, commitment, attitude, ideas, potential and enthusiasm are important qualities.

You will need to:

• believe in our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Excellence and follow our school ethos embedded in our motto of ‘Nil Sine Labore’ - Nothing Without Work

• be a reflective practitioner wanting to develop and hone your craft to the highest level
• be an inspirational teacher who builds excellent relationships and motivates students

Responsibilities

Specific responsibilities are outlined in a detailed job description.

In addition to this, teachers at Heckmondwike Grammar School are expected to be effective and reflective professionals who challenge and support all pupils to achieve their best. They should:

• Inspire confidence, build team commitment, and engage and motivate students.
• Think analytically about their work and take positive action to improve the quality of pupils’ learning.
• Encourage high standards of academic and personal achievement.
• Act as positive role models for students.
• Contribute actively to the policies and aspirations of the school and the Physics department.

What You Will Bring to the Role

• A degree in a relevant discipline and a recognised teaching qualification.
• Up-to-date knowledge of the11-18 curriculum and educational best practices.
• A strong classroom presence with the ability to inspire and motivate students from KS3 to KS5.
• Detailed knowledge of pedagogical practice in relation to Teaching and Learning.

• Skilled classroom practitioner.
• Highly effective communication skills.
• Ability to lead, manage and inspire colleagues.
• Ability to form good working relationships and influence others.
• Capacity to evaluate and improve.
• High level of skill in dealing with issues relating to student behaviour
• Ability to analyse performance data.
• Passionate belief in the ability of every student to achieve
• A clear educational vision and sense of direction
• Good organisational skills and high levels of self-motivation
• Ability to work under pressure and to meet deadlines
• Ability to maintain a sense of perspective in all working conditions

• Effective ICT skills and an understanding of how technology can enhance teaching and learning.
• A willingness to contribute to extracurricular activities and the wider school community.
• Confidence in contributing to curriculum development, including schemes of work and teaching materials.
• Energy, enthusiasm, and a passion for Physics.
• A suitability to work with children, with a commitment to safeguarding and student well-being.