Head of Chemistry

Charterhouse, Godalming, Surrey

Start: September 2026

Charterhouse is seeking a well-qualified, talented and ambitious Head of Chemistry to lead an outstanding department at the heart of our scientific provision.

This is an exciting opportunity for an inspiring classroom practitioner and strategic leader to build on a strong culture of innovation and high achievement, and to shape the next phase of development for Chemistry within one of the country's leading co-educational boarding and day schools.

The Role

The successful candidate will lead a thriving Chemistry department of eight specialist teachers, supported by a highly skilled technical team, within a large and dynamic Science Faculty. Chemistry is taught as a discrete science through the Under School following Edexcel IGCSE, with strong uptake and success at Edexcel A Level and IB Diploma in the Sixth Form.

Practical work and intellectual curiosity sit at the centre of our approach. The department benefits from exceptional, award-winning facilities in a purpose-built Chemistry building (completed in 2018), alongside outstanding resourcing for practical and digital provision. Super-curricular Chemistry is a particular strength, with active participation in programmes such as the Chemistry Olympiad, Cambridge Chemistry Challenge and Schools Analyst Competition, as well as a rich programme of societies, lectures, visits and outreach.

The Person

We are looking for a Head of Chemistry who will:

• Combine excellent subject knowledge with highly effective, engaging classroom practice
• Bring clear and confident leadership, with the ability to inspire colleagues and pupils across all age ranges
• Lead an ambitious, coherent curriculum and sustain high standards of assessment, feedback and pupil outcomes
• Champion practical Chemistry and demonstrate strong laboratory Health & Safety leadership
• Develop and extend super-curricular opportunities and promote Chemistry as an academic discipline in its own right
• Contribute fully to the wider life of a busy and flourishing boarding school community

Why Charterhouse?

Charterhouse offers a warm, values-led culture, with kindness and belonging at its core. Staff benefit from a generous rewards package including:

• Choice of TPS or a competitive contributory pension scheme
• Private medical insurance (subject to eligibility) and a cash health plan
• School fee remission (subject to eligibility)
• Membership of the Sports Centre and reduced subscription to the School golf course
• Lunches during the working day, free on-site parking and access to excellent CPD
• Subsidised accommodation may be available (subject to availability)

How to Apply

Closing date: Monday, 2 March 2026

Interviews: shortly after the closing date

Applications should be submitted via the Charterhouse website (Employment Opportunities). Early applications are warmly encouraged, and we may invite candidates to interview in advance of the closing date.

For an informal conversation about the role, David Dickinson, Head of Science, would be very happy to speak with prospective candidates. Please contact him at to arrange a mutually convenient time.

Charterhouse is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment procedures, including appropriate pre-employment checks.

Contact

Charterhouse, Godalming, Surrey GU7 2DX

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