Head of Department - Science
Teaching Subject:
Science
Contract Type: Permanent/Ongoing Position Full Time
Applications Close: 5 August 2026
Reporting to the Deputy Headmaster Academics 7–12, the Head of Department is responsible for providing strategic, curriculum and instructional leadership that drives excellence in teaching and learning across the Science faculty. As a member of the Heads of Department Team, the successful candidate will lead a collaborative and high-performing team, fostering a culture of innovation, professional growth and continuous improvement.
<p><strong>ABOUT US</strong></p>
<p>Knox Grammar School is an independent, multi-campus Kindergarten to Year 12 day and boarding school for boys, located at Wahroonga on Sydney’s North Shore. In addition to the single-sex campuses, Knox also operates Wahroonga Preparatory School, a co-educational campus for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Year 6.</p>
<p>A leading Uniting Church School, Knox aims to develop students of Faith, Wisdom, Integrity, Compassion and Courage within a caring Christian environment.</p>
<p><strong>HOW YOU'LL MAKE AN IMPACT</strong></p>
<p>An exciting leadership opportunity has arisen at Knox Grammar School for a<strong> </strong>Head of Department Science. This is a permanent full-time position, commencing by negotiation.</p>
<p>Reporting to the Deputy Headmaster – Academics 7–12, the Head of Department is responsible for providing strategic, curriculum and instructional leadership that drives excellence in teaching and learning across the Science faculty. As a member of the Heads of Department Team, the successful candidate will lead a collaborative and high-performing team, fostering a culture of innovation, professional growth and continuous improvement.</p>
<p>This role will suit an experienced educator and leader who is passionate about student achievement, evidence-informed practice and developing the capabilities of others.</p>
<p>The Head of Department receives a 0.4 teaching release in line with School guidelines.</p>
<p><strong>THE ROLE</strong></p>
<p>The Head of Department will:</p>
<ul>
<li>Provide purposeful and effective leadership of the Science faculty, fostering a culture of collegiality, accountability, professional growth and high performance.</li>
<li>Lead and promote excellence in practical Science education, ensuring safe, innovative and engaging laboratory learning experiences that inspire student curiosity and scientific inquiry.</li>
<li>Lead the development, implementation and review of curriculum and assessment programs across Years 7–12.</li>
<li>Drive a culture of teaching excellence through coaching, mentoring and professional learning.</li>
<li>Lead faculty engagement with the Knox Teaching and Learning Framework and support evidence-informed teaching practice.</li>
<li>Develop the leadership capacity of team members through mentoring, delegation and professional growth opportunities.</li>
<li>Use student achievement data and evidence to inform decision-making and improve learning outcomes.</li>
<li>Monitor and maintain high academic standards across all Science courses and year groups.</li>
<li>Ensure compliance with NESA requirements and School policies relating to curriculum, assessment and reporting.</li>
<li>Promote student wellbeing, engagement and inclusion, ensuring all students are appropriately supported and challenged.</li>
<li>Contribute to whole-school strategic priorities and collaborate effectively with academic leaders across the School.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>THE SUCCESSFUL CANDIDATE</strong></p>
<p>The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate the following:</p>
<ul>
<li>Relevant tertiary qualifications, teaching credentials, and accreditation with the NSW Education Standards Authority (NESA).</li>
<li>Proven experience leading high-performing teams and fostering a culture of excellence, collaboration, accountability, and continuous improvement.</li>
<li>Demonstrated expertise in Science education across Years 7–12, including curriculum leadership, practical laboratory learning, and a strong understanding of contemporary research and evidence-informed pedagogical practice.</li>
<li>Experience leading curriculum development, assessment design, and the implementation of effective, evidence-informed teaching and learning practices.</li>
<li>Demonstrated success in coaching, mentoring, and developing staff to enhance professional practice and improve student outcomes.</li>
<li>Expertise in analysing and using student achievement data to inform teaching, monitor progress, and drive continuous improvement.</li>
<li>Highly developed communication and interpersonal skills, together with a commitment to the values and ethos of Knox Grammar School and the holistic education of boys.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>OUR OFFER</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Competitive salary and conditions.</li>
<li>Professional development and leadership growth opportunities.</li>
<li>Staff wellbeing committee and wellbeing initiatives including fitness and wellbeing programs.</li>
<li>Staff awards and recognition programs.</li>
<li>Employee Assistance Program (EAP).</li>
<li>Teacher accreditation mentoring and support.</li>
<li>Annual flu vaccinations.</li>
<li>Daily morning tea provided and access to an onsite café.</li>
<li>The opportunity to work within a leading independent school committed to educational excellence, innovation and staff development.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>HOW TO APPLY</strong></p>
<p>Please apply via the <a href="https://secure.workforceready.com.au/ta/6198453.careers?CareersSearch=&lang=en-AU" rel="nofollow"><strong>Knox Careers Page</strong></a>.</p>
<p>Knox offers outstanding long-term career opportunities, is values driven and an equal opportunity employer. Knox encourages all qualified applicants to apply.</p>
<p>Before applying, please read the comprehensive role description found on our website:</p>
<p><a href="https://www.knox.nsw.edu.au/employment/" rel="nofollow"><strong>https://www.knox.nsw.edu.au/employment/</strong></a></p>
<p><strong> CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS</strong></p>
<p>4.00pm Wednesday 5 August 2026</p>
<p><i>Please note that applications will be assessed as they are received, and interviews may be conducted prior to the closing date.</i></p>
<p>Knox Grammar School is committed to the safety, protection and wellbeing of all our students and children involved in activities at Knox. The School actively promotes a culture of child safety and requires all prospective staff to be suitable and committed to protecting students from abuse or harm in the school environment.</p>
<p>To support this commitment, the School partners with Australia’s leading child protection organisations, including Bravehearts to deliver annual online child protection training for permanent staff and Halloran Morrissey Group which delivers face to face training for all permanent and casual staff. Knox’s blended learning approach ensures all training incorporates current legislative requirements and practical, real-world applications. This approach ensures our staff receive relevant, up-to-date, and comprehensive child safety education.</p>
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