Head of Physics

Tolworth Girls' School and Sixth Form, Surbiton, Surrey, KT6 7EY

32 days remaining to apply

• Job start date

  1 September 2026

• Closing date

  14 April 2026 at 9am

• Date listed

  10 March 2026

Job details

• Job role:
  • Head of department or curriculum
• Visa sponsorship: Visas cannot be sponsored
• Key stage: Key stage 3, Key stage 4, Key stage 5
• Subjects: Physics, Science
• Working pattern: Full time
• Contract type: Permanent
• Full-time equivalent salary: MPS/UPS (Outer London) + TLR (currently £6,531pa)

Head of Physics job summary

Tolworth Girls' School & Sixth Form is an Outstanding and World Class school with a culture of ambition, inclusion and success. We are seeking a dynamic, collaborative and inspirational Head of Physics to join our highly effective and well resourced Science Faculty from September 2026.

About the Science Faculty

Our Science provision is exceptional, with 12 dedicated laboratories, two prep rooms, and a strong team of specialist teachers and experienced technicians. Students thrive in a culture of achievement and enthusiasm for science across all key stages.

We provide a rich range of opportunities to spark curiosity and deepen learning, including:

• Physics, Chemistry and Biology Olympiads (KS4 & KS5)

• A popular KS3 Harry Potter Science Club

• Guest speakers, including Fellows of the Royal Astronomical Society

• Visits from an Urban Farm and opportunities for students to hatch and nurture their own chicks

• STEM experiences and programmes promoting women in science

Our students are motivated and engaged, and our science facilities and curriculum offer the ideal environment for a leader who wants to inspire, innovate and elevate Physics across the school.

About the Role

This is an excellent opportunity for a talented, committed Physics specialist who is ready to lead a thriving subject area. You will work closely with the Director of Science, Head of Biology and Head of Chemistry to continue driving high standards and outstanding outcomes.

We are looking for a colleague who:

• Has a genuine passion for Physics and science education

• Brings creativity, ambition and high expectations

• Is committed to excellence in teaching and learning across all key stages

• Enjoys working collaboratively within an energetic and supportive team

• Will play an active role in the wider life of the school and promote STEM within our community

Our Accreditations

• Outstanding (Ofsted, September 2023)

• World Class Schools Accreditation

• Challenge Partners – Leading School

“It was an absolute pleasure reviewing your school, it was inspirational.”

These accolades reflect our commitment to exceptional teaching, strong leadership and providing the very best educational experience for our students.

Why Work at Tolworth Girls’?

We prioritise the wellbeing and development of our staff — a strength highlighted by Ofsted. Colleagues benefit from:

• Teachers’ Pension Scheme

• Free eye tests

• Cycle to Work scheme

• Free flu vaccinations

• Discounted membership to our on site partnership gym

• Free on site parking

• Extensive CPD, coaching and career development opportunities

• Employee Assistance Programme including free counselling & CBT

• A supportive, friendly staff community (and plenty of opportunities for cake and a cuppa!)

Safeguarding & Recruitment

Tolworth Girls' School & Sixth Form is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All posts are subject to satisfactory onboarding checks including a minimum of 2 employment references and an enhanced DBS check.

As part of due diligence, shortlisted applicants may be subject to an online search. Any information of concern will be discussed at interview.

We are committed to building a diverse workforce and welcome applications from all suitably qualified candidates.

Please note: We do not hold a sponsor licence; applicants must have the right to work in the UK without restrictions for full time teaching roles.

Direct applications only – no agencies.

Key Dates

• Closing date: 9am Tuesday 14 April 2026

• Interviews: TBC

Early applications are strongly encouraged as applicants will be interviewed as soon as a suitable pool of candidates is selected. We reserve the right to close the advert early if a suitable candidate is appointed.

Applications should be submitted via Eteach; references may be contacted prior to interview as stated on the application form.

Candidates must be able to attend interview in person on the date specified.

Further information about the job

The candidate will be required to undergo a full enhanced DBS check and must be eligible to work in the UK.

Visas cannot be sponsored.

If you're interested in teaching or training to teach in England as an international citizen, we can help you understand your next steps.

Commitment to safeguarding

Tolworth Girls' School & Sixth Form are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

Applying for the job

This school accepts applications through their own website, where you may also find more information about this job.

CVs will not be accepted for this application.

About Tolworth Girls' School and Sixth Form

• School type: Academy, ages 11 to 18
• Education phase: Secondary school
• School size: 1486 pupils enrolled
• Age range: 11 to 18
• Ofsted report: View Ofsted report
• School website: Tolworth Girls' School and Sixth Form website
• See more jobs: teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk/organisations/tolworth-girls-school-and-sixth-form

Tolworth Girls’ School and Sixth Form is a large over-subscribed comprehensive school in the Royal Borough of Kingston upon Thames, London. We have over 1400 student on roll including almost 300 in our mixed gender Sixth Form. We pride ourselves on being an inclusive school and are committed to providing an excellent education to the diverse community we serve.

Aims
To provide a secure, nurturing and inspirational learning environment

To develop confident and happy young people who make a positive contribution to our society

To encourage respect for others, resilience and a love of learning in all students

To engender in our students, the skills needed so that they can shape their own future

Ethos
We believe that every student should have the opportunity to achieve their academic potential and realise their dream

We value every student as an individual with their own spiritual, cultural and individual strengths that enrich our school community

We celebrate the achievements of all, encouraging our students to flourish and to value each other

‘Let your light so shine - Be the best you can be’

School location

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