Subject Leader Chemistry Grammar School

Organisations Heckmondwike Grammar School Hours 1.0

FTE from September 2026 Number of Jobs 1 Location(s) Heckmondwike Grammar School, High Street, Heckmondwike, West Yorkshire, WF16 0AH

Position type Permanent Salary Commensurate with skills and experience plus TLR 2c (£8,611)

Atlees Council on behalf of Heckmondwike Grammar School we are advertising a Chemistry Teacher and Leader position. This role offers a unique opportunity to work within a high‑performing 11‑18 grammar school with a large sixth‑form and exceptional students.

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

• Salary:
  Commensurate with skills and experience plus TLR 2c (£8,611)
• Term/
  
  Hours:
  
  1.0
  
  FTE from September 2026
• Closing date: 12 March 2026, 9:00 AM
• Interviews:
  Tuesday 17 March 2026

• Pension Plan
• Cycle to Work Scheme
• Free On‑Site Parking
• Use of School Gym Facility

The Chemistry department has six specialist teachers and two technicians, works in five well‑equipped modern laboratories, a large staff office and a dedicated prep room. Schemes of work are detailed and resources are shared. Teachers typically work across all key stages.

We follow the AQA GCSE (9‑1) specification – achievement is very high (83% 9‑7 and 98% 9‑5). Around 250 students study a‑level Chemistry (AQA A‑level), with 48% of grades at A*‑B. Almost all a‑level chemistry students continue to university, many pursuing medicine or related science degrees.

• Believe in our school values of Respect, Responsibility and Excellence and follow our ethos embedded in our motto:
  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

Please see the detailed job description for a full list of responsibilities.

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

• A degree in a relevant discipline and a recognised teaching qualification
• Up‑to‑date knowledge of the 11‑18 curriculum and educational best practices
• Excellent knowledge and understanding of the A Level Chemistry curriculum
• 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 practice
• Strong classroom presence, inspiring and motivating students from KS3 to KS5
• High level of skill in dealing with student behaviour
• Ability to analyse performance data
• Effective ICT skills and an understanding of how technology can enhance teaching and learning
• Willingness to contribute to extracurricular activities and the wider school community
• Confidence in contributing to curriculum development, schemes of work and teaching materials
• 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 meet deadlines
• Energy, enthusiasm and a passion for Chemistry
• Suitability to work with children, with a commitment to safeguarding and student well‑being

Heckmondwike Grammar School offers a unique learning environment for students who are eager, ambitious and keen to maximise their educational experience.

• A diverse school community that consistently achieves exceptional results
• A culture that supports students’ academic success and personal development
• Strong relationships between staff and students, creating a positive learning environment
• High expectations that…