Teacher of Chemistry
Durham Sixth Form Centre, Durham, County Durham, DH1 1SG11 days remaining to apply
Job start date
1 September 2026
Closing date
27 March 2026 at 9am
Date listed
16 March 2026
Job details
Job role
Visa sponsorship
- Visas cannot be sponsored
Subject
- Chemistry
Working pattern
- Full time, part time: Full time or 0.8 considered
Contract type
- Permanent
Pay scale
- MS/UPS
What skills and experience we're looking for
We are looking to recruit an exceptional Teacher of Chemistry to join our outstanding sixth form team — where innovation, ambition, and student success powers everything we do. This is an incredible opportunity to make a profound difference working with a team of like-minded professionals in one of our most popular and academically rigorous subject areas.
At Durham Sixth Form Centre, we go beyond the curriculum to nurture tomorrow’s medical professionals, chemical engineers, and research scientists. With a thriving A Level Chemistry cohort and a national reputation for academic excellence, this is your opportunity to guide our students through the complexities of the AQA specification and shape the future of STEM education in an outstanding setting.
What makes this role exciting?
Deliver a flagship academic subject: Join a high-profile department with a strong track record of success, delivering high-quality AQA A-Level Chemistry to a large and motivated student body.
Inspire elite thinkers: Challenge and support students aiming for top-tier universities and competitive careers in Medicine, Dentistry, Veterinary Science, and Chemical Engineering.
Practical Science Mastery: Deliver the AQA Practical Endorsement (CPAC), ensuring students master the precision, safety, and high-level laboratory techniques required for undergraduate research.
High-Level Academic Rigour: Teach a curriculum that balances the mathematical demands of Physical Chemistry with the intricate mechanisms of Organic and Inorganic Chemistry.
Contribute to STEM Excellence: Support and lead on chemistry-specific enrichment, from the Chemistry Olympiad and Copper Challenge to engaging with the Royal Society of Chemistry and local industry links.
We are looking for someone who:
Is an outstanding A Level Chemistry practitioner with a proven track record (or the clear potential) of securing excellent outcomes within the AQA specification.
Possesses deep subject expertise, with the confidence to teach the full breadth of the specification, including advanced spectroscopy, thermodynamics, and transition metal chemistry.
Brings a passion for the subject that connects molecular-level concepts to modern breakthroughs in green chemistry, pharmaceuticals, and sustainable materials.
Is a collaborative professional, eager to share best practices, monitor individual student progress, and implement effective interventions within a large and dynamic Science Faculty.
Is committed to evidence-informed teaching, using strategies like retrieval practice and modelling to help students navigate the "jump" from GCSE to A Level.
Why choose us?
Be a part of an Investors in People: Platinum [Employer of the Year 2025] organisation.
We are a flourishing high-performing sixth form where students achieve and exceed their potential.
Be part of a team that’s ambitious, supportive, and driven by purpose.
Benefit from personalised CPD, leadership coaching, and genuine career progression.
Join Durham Sixth Form Centre as Teacher of Chemistry. Inspire the next generation of doctors, chemical engineers, and research scientists. Shape the future of science education in an outstanding sixth form environment. We are located in the heart of Durham, just 20 minutes from Sunderland and 30 minutes from Newcastle city centre.
What the school offers its staff
At our Trust, we deeply value the health and wellbeing of our staff, recognising that a happy, supported team is essential to delivering the best outcomes for our students. We are committed to fostering a positive working environment where staff feel cared for, empowered, and equipped to thrive both personally and professionally.
Pension scheme
All contracted members of staff will be automatically enrolled into either the Teachers' Pension Scheme or the Local Government Pension Scheme (whichever is appropriate).
National terms and conditions
We offer national terms and conditions in line with the School Teacher’s Pay and Conditions document (STPCD) and Burgundy Book for teachers or the NJC Green Book for support staff.
Training and development
Professional development opportunities aimed at the continuous process of enhancing your skills, knowledge and competencies discussed with your appraiser on an individual basis.
City centre parking
Durham City Centre barriered private parking for staff whilst at work which extends to free all year round parking, 24 hours a day, 7 days a week, 365 days a year.
Staff wellbeing working group
For the staff, by the staff, our wellbeing working group meet at least 3 times a year and is open to all members of staff. To date the group has raised money for charity, built a Staff Wellbeing portal, organised socials, sporting events and family days out.
Healthcare services
All staff benefit from a range of comprehensive health and wellbeing services including: GP service which gives staff the access to a General Practitioner around the clock, 24/7, access to nurse support services and physiotherapy provided face-to-face at times, dates and locations convenient to our staff.
Live webinars
Online webinars for Mental Health First Aid and Stress Coaching are available to staff which run frequently throughout the year with a choice of dates and times.
Health and Wellbeing
Free Flu vaccines, menopause counselling and access to financial wellbeing coaches through our staff absence insurance policy.
Daily breakfast
We provide a selection of hot drinks, cereals, croissants, toast and jams complimentary each morning in the refectory for staff and students.
Lifestyle
Our lifestyle benefits include shopping discounts with hundreds of online and high street retailers and discounted gym membership.
Free Will Writing Service
Organised through the Financial Guys, all staff are provided with a free single basic Will which also includes a 50% discount for partners.
Blue Light
Blue Light Card have now added Teaching and Support staff to the list of careers that are able to apply for their card. When applying please upload your staff ID badge as evidence.
Working From Home
We are currently trialling working from home. This arrangement supports flexible working and recognises that some tasks, such as planning, marking and resource development, can be carried out more effectively in a quiet, uninterrupted environment.
Flexible working opportunities
We are currently trialling working from home. This arrangement supports flexible working and recognises that some tasks, such as planning, marking and resource development, can be carried out more effectively in a quiet, uninterrupted environment.
Further information about the job
Thank you for your interest in the role of Teacher of Chemistry, a position we see as a cornerstone of the continued growth and innovation within our Chemistry department and the wider STEM Faculty.
At Durham Sixth Form Centre, our students are curious, motivated, and highly ambitious. Our A Level Chemistry cohort is no exception. We are looking for an inspiring leader and exceptional classroom practitioner who can bring the molecular world to life—from the intricacies of organic synthesis to the precision of physical chemistry—securing outstanding outcomes and helping every learner realise their potential in a subject that opens doors to elite careers in medicine, pharmacy, chemical engineering, and research.
You would be joining a thriving Science, Technology, and Mathematics Faculty. We are one of the most popular and high-achieving Faculties in the school, defined by outstanding progression rates to Russell Group universities and competitive higher apprenticeships. Our culture is one of collaboration, curiosity, and continuous improvement. We pride ourselves on our value-added performance, which consistently ranks well above national averages.
We are looking for someone who brings creativity, enthusiasm, and a deep-seated passion for chemistry education. You will be a specialist who is confident in delivering high-level theoretical content across the AQA specification alongside rigorous laboratory work. Beyond the classroom, you will join a team that values professional growth; many of our staff work as examiners or lead external research, and you will be encouraged to do the same.
But beyond what you can offer us, let me tell you what we can offer you.
You’ll join a sixth form school with an outstanding Ofsted track record, a national reputation for excellence, and a team that will genuinely support and invest in your development. We offer tailored CPD, leadership training, access to external networks, and opportunities to lead meaningful outreach and enrichment projects, such as the Chemistry Olympiad or Royal Society of Chemistry competitions. You’ll be part of a Trust that values integrity, collaboration, and ambition—and you’ll be heard, challenged, and celebrated.
If you believe in the power of education, are passionate about chemistry, and want to inspire students who are ambitious, curious, and ready to be challenged, this role is for you. We’d be delighted to welcome you to our dynamic and supportive team.
Thank you for considering this role at Durham Sixth Form Centre. We look forward to learning more about you and hopefully welcoming you to our team. We would strongly encourage candidates interested in this role to visit us in advance and apply early. Should you wish to discuss this role further, or to arrange a visit, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.
Kathryn DuffyLeader of Learning: Science, Technology and Mathematics
kathryn.duffy@durhamsixthformcentre.org.uk
Commitment to safeguarding
Our organisation is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults. We expect all staff, volunteers and trustees to share this commitment.
Our recruitment process follows the keeping children safe in education guidance.
Offers of employment may be subject to the following checks (where relevant):
childcare disqualification
Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS)
medical
online and social media
prohibition from teaching
right to work
satisfactory references
suitability to work with children
You must tell us about any unspent conviction, cautions, reprimands or warnings under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975.
Applying for the job
Apply for the job by following the link below.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
View advert on school website (opens in new tab)Additional documents
If you need these documents in an accessible format, please contact the school.
About Durham Sixth Form Centre
- School type
- Academy, ages 16 to 19
- Education phase
- Sixth form or college
- School size
- 1708 pupils enrolled
- Age range
- 16 to 19
- Ofsted report
- View Ofsted report
- School website
- Durham Sixth Form Centre website
- Email address
- emma.tallentire@providencelearningpartnership.org.uk
Welcome to Durham Sixth Form Centre and thank you for your interest in the advertised post. I hope the following information gives you an insight into our school.
Durham Sixth Form Centre is a large post-16 provider based in the North East of England, with approximately 1,700 students on roll. We are situated in the middle of Durham City centre, a couple of minutes walk from both the bus and railway stations. Students generally enrol at Durham Sixth Form Centre from over 60 different secondary schools from
across County Durham, Sunderland and into Northumberland.
In 2017 we were graded an ‘outstanding’ post-16 academy, this is reflected in our recent Ofsted monitoring visit
report. Our students have an excellent record of success, which they work hard to achieve. Trends over time demonstrate the following headlines:
In academic qualifications:
● Progress (VA) has been consistently above the National Average (NA) and was graded above average in the
2025 performance tables.
● A level average point score (APS) is significantly above the NA and places us in the top 6% of schools and
colleges nationally.
● 71% of students achieved A*- B A level grades in the summer 2024.
In applied general qualifications:
● Progress (VA) has been consistently above the NA and was graded above average in the 2025 performance
tables.
● Overall attainment (APS) is consistently above the NA and is ranked in the top 2% of schools and Academies
nationally.
We recently celebrated 110 years in education. We are housed in various buildings, often referred to as a mini university setting. Our site comprises a 1913 former girls’ grammar school, which was converted to sixth form
accommodation in 1983. In addition to the original building, there is now a science specific wing; a 200 seated theatre; our Hunter resource centre; visual arts centre and Freeman’s Quay leisure centre. In 2019, we expanded further to include our digital media centre, which houses a grab-and-go café, conference facility, TV studio, small cinema room
and additional classroom space. We also have a dedicated Art Gallery on site, the Dead Dog Gallery, with an ever changing exhibition and community programme in place.
Through sustained effort, and a clear focus and direction, Durham Sixth Form Centre is a truly embracing and dynamic organisation. We are committed to promoting the principles of equal opportunities and we aspire to an environment where all our students and employees can develop their potential. We have a strong professional development
programme and have achieved CPD Mark accreditation, Investors in People Gold and Governor Mark among others. Our most recent Ofsted inspection report said ‘The Headteacher and the highly skilled leadership team have established a culture in which students flourish and grow. Consequently, there is a healthy appetite for learning and achievement in an environment that demands high expectations for academic, vocational and personal excellence’.
Our academy operates according to the Values of our Trust which we feel help to determine the culture, ethos and atmosphere of Durham Sixth Form Centre.
If you are energetic and passionate about post-16 education and have the skills and aptitude required for the role then
we would welcome your application and look forward to hearing from you.
Arranging a visit to Durham Sixth Form Centre
To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email emma.tallentire@providencelearningpartnership.org.uk.
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