This article will be talking about working as a Science Teacher in the UK. A career as a science teacher is demanding yet rewarding. Working as a teacher allows you to inspire the next generation. When it comes to teaching Science, schools look for a person who is not only talented but also knowledgeable. If you are looking for a Science Teacher position in London, Enlighten Supply Pool should be your go-to agency.
What you will be teaching?
Depending on the key stage of your students, you will be asked to teach a wide variety of scientific topics. Science can be divided into 3 main streams: Physics, Chemistry, and Biology, you will be asked to teach any of these depending on your capability and the key stage of the students. in some cases, you may be asked to teach all science subjects if you are teaching key stage 3 which is 11 to 14 years of studies. As per the UK National Curriculum, you will be asked to teach the key stages of the students up to Key Stage 4 or 5.
1. key stage 3 (KS3): Ages 11- 14
For students who are ages 11 to 14, science is taught as a combined subject. You will be focusing on building the foundation of Science, creating curiosity in the minds of the students about Science. The key topics will be:
- Biology: Cells, organ systems, reproduction, ecosystems, and adaptation.
- Chemistry: Atoms, elements, compounds, reactions, acids and alkalis, the periodic table.
- Physics: Forces, energy, waves, electricity, magnetism, and motion.
In the KS3 you will introduce experiments, scientific methods and basic knowledge.
2. Key Stage 4 (KS4): Ages 14–16 (GCSE)
At this stage, students can study combined Science or 3 individual subjects. When teaching Key Stage 4 students you may be asked to teach combined Science or Science subjects separately (physics, biology and Chemistry). You will be asked to teach/cover more advanced Science topics at this stage. You will be covering:
- Biology: Cell biology, human biology (including the circulatory and digestive systems), ecology, evolution, genetics, and photosynthesis.
- Chemistry: Atomic structure, bonding, chemical reactions, rates of reaction, organic chemistry, quantitative chemistry, and electrolysis.
- Physics: Energy, electricity, particle model of matter, forces and motion, waves, magnetism, nuclear physics, and space physics.
The Key Stage 4 is a stage where you prepare students for theoretical knowledge and practical skills.
3. Key Stage 5 (KS5): Ages 16–18 (A-Level)
Key Stage 5 also known as A-levels, where you will be asked to teach individual subjects in depth. Your responsibility here will be to help students to specialise in a particular subject. The curriculum will be more in-depth, advanced and more complex concepts. You will be preparing the students for university and careers in Science-related fields. A-Level Science is typically more specialised, covering topics like:
- A-Level Biology: Advanced genetics, biochemistry, cellular processes, ecosystems, homeostasis, human physiology, and evolution.
- A-Level Chemistry: Physical chemistry (thermodynamics, kinetics), organic chemistry (reaction mechanisms, carbon compounds), and inorganic chemistry (transition metals, group chemistry).
- A-Level Physics: Mechanics, electromagnetism, quantum physics, thermal physics, nuclear physics, and astrophysics.
Key stage 5 involves theoretical concepts, problem-solving, and preparing students for universities and jobs in the science fields.
4. Practical Work and Experimentation
Each of the Science subjects has its own practical. You should be able to function with chemicals, demonstrate the laws of nature and know-how plants, animals and human bodies work. You will guide students through various experiments to:
- Test hypotheses and analyze results.
- Develop laboratory skills such as using microscopes, titration, handling chemicals safely, and electrical circuits.
- Learn to document their findings and draw scientific conclusions.
And you should be able to help students with real-world applications related to science. These practicals are an important part of the assessment for the GCSE and A-Level.
6. Cross-curricular Links
Teaching science involves a lot of things, like understanding how the world works. As a science teacher, you must also be well versed in other subjects like Maths, Geography and Technology.
- Mathematics: For calculations in physics (e.g., force, motion) and chemistry (e.g., molar mass, concentrations).
- Geography: Understanding ecosystems and environmental science.
- Technology and Engineering: Applications of science in modern technology and engineering challenges.
7. Assessment
Another important factor that individuals must have is the ability to assess students, this includes the following:
- Written exams: Testing knowledge of scientific theory.
- Practical assessments: Especially at GCSE and A-Level, where students’ ability to conduct experiments and analyze results is evaluated.
- Coursework (limited): In some cases, practical work and research assignments will be part of the final grade.
How we can help you with the Job?
At Enlighten Supply Pool we can assist you in finding your perfect position. Science Teacher Jobs in London are available and if you meet the criteria, we can get you the Job.
Science teacher jobs available
Suggested:
