The Deputy Head Academic is responsible for promoting a vibrant and dynamic academic culture within the Prep School, working to ensure the highest standards of teaching, learning and academic attainment. The role is key to ensuring the Ethos, Aims and Values of the School are continuously maintained and demonstrated. The successful applicant will work closely with the Heads of Department and other senior staff to ensure effective planning and delivery of outstanding academic curriculum, assessment and reporting; and will be actively involved in overseeing teaching and learning practice and the efficient management of academic departments. They will be actively involved in overseeing teaching and learning practice and the efficient management of academic departments.

Person Specification

• Have a good honours degree, a teacher training qualification and a proven track record of successful teaching in the 5 – 11 age range
• Have a good track record of leading and managing staff; envisioning, encouraging, supporting, onitoring and challenging colleagues
• Have worked in a promoted academic role
• Be committed to the ethos and values of Durham International School
• Be able to work within organisational procedures and meet the required standards for the role
• Be able to work collaboratively and supportively with colleagues within Durham International School and with colleagues in other organisations
• Be able to relate effectively to parents and to students
• Be able to communicate clearly and effectively orally and in writing and demonstrate good ICT skills
• Have a clear understanding of excellence in teaching and learning
• Be patient, determined, enthusiastic and well-organised with a good eye for detail
• Be committed to continual personal and professional development and be reflective and able to learn from past experience
• Be resilient and demonstrate an ability to work well under pressure
• Display commitment to the protection and safeguarding of children and young people

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Summary of Responsibilities and Accountabilities:

• Produce a departmental development plan, updated annually.
• Produce and regularly update schemes of work and curriculum documents.
• Take responsibility for the demands of public examination courses.
• Mark and assess the work of potential entrants to the school as required.
• Maintain regular communication (where appropriate) with Prep School Curriculum Advisors, especially about the transition from Year 6 to Year 7.
• Contribute to the overall curriculum planning of the school.
• Plan and prepare courses and lessons in accordance with published schemes of work.
• Teach the assigned students, including setting and marking of work and assessments in line with school policy.
• Assess, record and report on the development, progress and attainment of students in line with school policy.
• Communicate with parents and inform/consult class teacher, form tutor, Head of Year, Deputy Head and/or Principal as appropriate.

Qualifications, Background and Experience

• Have a good honours degree and a teacher training qualification for the 11-18 age range.
• Have a minimum of two years teaching experience, ideally five or more years teaching experience.
• Be able to teach English up to IGCSE and A Level or IB.
• Have a valid Teacher Services Commission Certificate (if applying from Kenya) or Qualified Teacher
• Status (QTS) or a general education degree (for overseas applicants).
• Be a skilled classroom practitioner, having a good subject knowledge and an awareness of teaching methodology

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