Are you an exceptional Science practitioner ready to step into a brand-new role and help shape the future of teaching and learning across a thriving school?

At The Cottesloe School, we are incredibly proud of our strong academic foundation and the fantastic achievements of our students. As a forward-thinking school, we are always looking for ways to innovate and push the boundaries of outstanding teaching even further. We are now seeking a visionary Lead Practitioner of Science to join us in doing exactly that.

As the very first Lead Practitioner in our school's history, this is a unique and exciting opportunity to define the role from day one. You will champion excellence within an already successful Science department, whilst playing a pivotal part in collaborating with the wider Teaching and Learning team to share best practice across the whole school.

Our core vision is to help students Prepare, Aspire, and Succeed. By introducing this newly created position, we are investing in our staff and students to ensure our Science provision remains at the absolute cutting edge of educational research and pedagogy. As our Lead Practitioner, you will be a driving force for innovation, modelling consistently high-quality practice, delivering expert coaching, and fostering a collaborative environment of continuous professional growth.

The Role As our first Lead Practitioner for Science, you will:

• Model pedagogical excellence by being an expert at KS5 in your specialism (Chemistry or Physics), demonstrating exceptional classroom teaching that inspires both students and colleagues.
• Shape teaching and learning by sustaining and developing high-quality teaching across the Science department, whilst actively contributing to the wider Teaching and Learning team.
• Champion inclusive practice by adapting pedagogical approaches and producing high-quality, inclusive resources to ensure the Science curriculum is robust and accessible to all students, especially our disadvantaged students including those with SEND.
• Develop a high-performing team through the leadership of the professional development of Science staff, using evidence-informed practice and data analytically to identify training opportunities, and provide expert mentoring and coaching to teachers at all career stages.
• Maximise student outcomes: Take a lead role in analysing student progress data and implementing strategic, bespoke interventions to ensure every single child is supported to reach their full potential within Science.

About You You are an ambitious, highly effective Science specialist in either Chemistry or Physics, with a relevant degree and a proven track record of delivering outstanding outcomes. You possess the educational foresight to see the fantastic potential this brand-new role offers, and the leadership skills to bring your vision to life. With experience in successfully leading CPD and an in-depth understanding of the KS4 and KS5 Science curriculum, you are passionate about making Science accessible, exciting, and rigorous. You also bring strong pastoral experience, acting as a positive role model and an outstanding Form Tutor.

Join Us This is a rare opportunity to leave a lasting mark on a successful, ambitious school by embedding a brand-new role. You will have the autonomy to shape teaching and learning strategies and the full support of a leadership team committed to investing in their staff.

Please contact Mrs Louise Baldwin, Head of School, for an informal conversation about the role or to arrange a visit: lbaldwin@cottesloe.bucks.sch.uk

Deadline for applications via MyNewTerm:  9.00am Wednesday 15 April 2026.

Interviews will take place on Monday 20 April 2026.

We reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.