Physics Upper School Teacher

Job Description Purpose of Role The Upper School Physics Teacher is responsible for delivering high-quality instruction in mathematics to students in grades 6-12, The purpose of the role of a middle school physics teacher is to build students' foundational understanding of the physical world while developing their curiosity, critical thinking, and problem-solving skills. At this stage, the goal is not advanced theory, but meaningful engagement with core concepts through exploration and real-world connections.

ISP Principles Begin with our children and students. Our children and students are at the heart of what we do. Simply, their success is our success. Wellbeing and safety are both essential for learners and learning. Therefore, we are consistent in identifying potential safeguarding and Health & Safety issues and acting and following up on all concerns appropriately. Treat everyone with care and respect. We look after one another, embrace similarities and differences and promote the well-being of self and others. Operate effectively. We focus relentlessly on the things that are most important and will make the most difference. We apply school policies and procedures and embody the shared ideas of our community. Are financially responsible. We make financial choices carefully based on the needs of the children, students and our schools. Learn continuously. Getting better is what drives us. We positively engage with personal and professional development and school improvement.

ISP Upper School Math

Key Responsibilities

• Introduce fundamental physics concepts Help students understand basic ideas such as motion, forces, energy, matter, waves, and simple electricity in age-appropriate ways.
• Develop scientific thinking skills Teach students how to observe, ask questions, design simple experiments, collect data, and draw evidence-based conclusions.
• Foster curiosity and interest in science Make physics engaging and relevant so students see it as understandable and connected to everyday life, not intimidating.
• Build problem-solving and reasoning abilities Encourage logical thinking, estimation, modeling, and the ability to explain reasoning clearly.
• Promote hands-on and inquiry-based learning Use experiments, demonstrations, simulations, and projects to help students learn by doing.
• Support literacy and communication in science Help students read scientific texts, use appropriate vocabulary, and communicate ideas through discussions, writing, and presentations.
• Encourage collaboration and responsibility Guide students to work safely and effectively in groups, respecting equipment, peers, and different ideas.
• Prepare students for future science learning Lay a strong foundation for high school science and informed decision-making as scientifically literate citizens.

Skills:

• Strong understanding of physics concepts (mechanics, electricity & magnetism, waves, optics, modern physics)
• Ability to solve and explain complex problems clearly
• Skill in applying mathematics (algebra, trigonometry, calculus where required)
• Ability to relate abstract concepts to real-world applications

Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree in Physics, Applied Physics, Engineering, or a related science field
• Teaching qualification or certification (e.g., B.Ed., PGCE, teaching license, or equivalent)
• First aid and laboratory safety certification (often required)

Experience:

• 2-5 years of experience teaching mathematics at the Upper School level.
• Experience teaching physics at upper school/high school level
• Experience differentiating instruction for mixed-ability classes
• Experience mentoring students in projects, science fairs, or competitions
• Participation in curriculum development or departmental planning (preferred)

ISP Principles

Begin with our children and students. Our children and students are at the heart of what we do. Simply, their success is our success. Wellbeing and safety are both essential for learners and learning. Therefore, we are consistent in identifying potential safeguarding and Health & Safety issues and acting and following up on all concerns appropriately. Treat everyone with care and respect. We look after one another, embrace similarities and differences and promote the well-being of self and others. Operate effectively. We focus relentlessly on the things that are most important and will make the most difference. We apply school policies and procedures and embody the shared ideas of our community. Are financially responsible. We make financial choices carefully based on the needs of the children, students and our schools. Learn continuously. Getting better is what drives us. We positively engage with personal and professional development and school improvement.

ISP Commitment to Safeguarding Principles

ISP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to appropriate vetting procedures, including an online due diligence search, references and satisfactory Criminal Background Checks or equivalent covering the previous 10 years' employment history.

ISP Commitment to Diversity, Equity, Inclusion, and Belonging

ISP is committed to strengthening our inclusive culture by identifying, hiring, developing, and retaining high-performing teammates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender expression, age, disability status, neurodivergence, socio-economic background or other demographic characteristics.