Upper School Science Teacher (Biology)

Job Title: Upper School Science Teacher (Biology)
Department: Science
Reports To: Upper School Head of Biology

Job Summary

The Upper School Science Teacher (Biology) is responsible for maintaining high academic standards within the Biology department. This role supports students on their educational journey through Upper School, fostering aspirations for achievement and development in both classroom settings and various extracurricular activities.

Key Responsibilities

General Responsibilities

• Actively promote and develop the ethos of Harrow Beijing.
• Lead by example in professional conduct, ensuring students adhere to standards of dress, punctuality, and attendance.
• Establish and maintain good relationships with parents and visitors to the school.
• Support and attend all major school events, maintaining a teaching load that includes participation in Leadership in Action activities as agreed with the Head of Upper School.
• Share responsibilities equitably with colleagues and engage fully in House activities, retreats, and expeditions as required.

Curriculum Development

• Maintain familiarity with UK National Curriculum guidelines, Harrow Beijing Units of Work, lesson plans, and evaluation criteria relevant to the teaching of Biology.
• Stay updated with curriculum developments through continuous professional development (CPD) and academic readings.
• Plan, prepare, and document engaging and challenging lessons tailored to meet the diverse needs of students.
• Deliver the curriculum and manage resources in accordance with school and departmental policies.
• Implement an ongoing formative assessment program aligned with units of work and associated learning objectives.
• Prepare students for and administer summative assessments, including school-based and externally examined assessments.
• Ensure consistency with internal and external marking schedules and maintain accurate records of student assessments.
• Write reports on student performance for internal and external use as required.

Welfare and Discipline

• Monitor student progress, providing guidance and support as needed, while maintaining relevant records for individual student files.
• Lead Personal Development (PD) tutorial sessions and maintain high standards of behavior and dress among students.
• Follow Harrow Beijing policies regarding student health and safety both on and off school premises.
• Take a pastoral interest in students, ensuring they feel valued and supported in both curricular and extracurricular contexts.

Leadership in Action

• Supervise and coach students in after-school enrichment activities and extracurricular sports and performing arts programs.
• Organize logistics for these activities, including transport and accommodation.

Professional Development

• Engage in the annual Professional Performance Review and participate in school-wide CPD initiatives.
• Seek out CPD opportunities for further qualifications and professional development.
• Consult with line managers regarding professional development and career pathways.

Collegiality

• Attend meetings that facilitate the smooth running of the school and the successful delivery of its programs.
• Mentor new teachers, particularly those with whom a functional relationship exists.
• Supervise students during non-period times as outlined by the duty rota and cover classes for colleagues as needed.

Safeguarding

• Take responsibility for safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, working collaboratively to identify, assess, and support children at risk of harm.

Relationships

• Internal: Collaborate with the Head of Department, Head of Year, Director of Studies, Head of Upper School, and Academic Support Team.
• External: Maintain communication with parents and other educational providers as necessary.

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

• Minimum of 2 years of teaching experience in the subject area, particularly Biology.
• Proven success in engaging and inspiring students in a stimulating learning environment.
• Experience in utilizing ICT to promote learning and the ability to analyze student data to support achievement.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience in teaching English as an Additional Language (EAL) students and delivering Biology at IGCSE and A Level.
• Previous experience in an international school and familiarity with the British education system.
• Strong commitment to extracurricular activities and contributing to the school community.

Qualifications

• Graduate qualified teacher status.
• A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant subject area is required; a Master’s degree is advantageous.

Additional Information

This position requires a highly motivated, ambitious, and collaborative individual dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of children. The post-holder will work closely with the academic leadership team to ensure effective implementation of the school’s strategic plan and play a key role in managing the transition between Lower and Upper Schools. The job description may be amended following discussions between the line manager and the staff member and will be reviewed annually during the appraisal process.