Job Description
The Programme Director for Science Education and Teacher Training is responsible for all aspects of the STEAM program and teacher training program of SIMCC and Singapore Scholastic Trust (STS), a global non-profit foundation supported by SIMCC.
Aims and key responsibilities:
1. Strategic Development of Science Education and Teacher Training program:
· Taking overall responsibility for the provision, development and philosophy of Science and pedagogy for Teacher Training Program at SIMCC and STS
· Developing high quality provision in all aspects of science education and teacher education at SIMCC
· Designing and delivering science and teacher training strategy with clear and specific plans for improvement on short, medium and long term basis
· Identifying and delivering key organisation priorities for Science and Teacher Training, and developing implementation plans for these priorities
· Prioritising the budget and resources available for Science and Teacher Training in line with the organisation strategy
· In liaison with the staff of Science and teacher training, ensuring that the Science and Teacher Training Programs have a rich and varied offering to immerse pupils in Science learning and engaging teachers in professional development programs
· Encouraging and developing a variety of opportunities beyond the science contests including local and international events to foster students’ Science learning
· Leading a united Science team to work together to achieve the shared vision
· Producing an annual Department Development Plan linked to the whole organisations Development Plan
2. Leading the Science program
· Develop effective and engaging science lessons for student training programs
· Reviewing the syllabus for science contests in liaison with Country Council Partners (CCPs)
· Ensure the science contest content is in line with the program aims and aligns with the broad organisation vision and mission.
3. Leading and managing the staff in the Science and Teacher Training department
· Identify staffing needs and requirements for the Science and Teacher Training department, taking into account the demands of science contests, curriculum development, and teacher training.
· Lead the recruitment process for hiring qualified content setters, moderators, trainers, and other necessary roles for the Science and Teacher Training programs.
· Provide guidance, coaching, and professional development opportunities to the department staff, fostering a culture of continuous improvement and growth.
· Conduct performance evaluations, recognize achievements, and address any performance-related issues in a timely and constructive manner.
· Collaborate with the HR department to ensure appropriate staffing levels and adherence to HR policies within the Science and Teacher Training department.
· Promote a positive and collaborative work environment that encourages innovation and creativity among the department's staff members.
4. Responsibility for the administration of the Science and Teacher Training department
· Oversee the administrative processes of the Science and Teacher Training department, ensuring smooth operation and compliance with organizational policies and procedures.
· Oversee the management of the scheduling of science contests, training sessions, and other educational events, coordinating with relevant stakeholders to ensure efficient planning and execution.
· Handle budgeting and financial matters related to the Science and Teacher Training programs, monitoring expenses and allocating resources appropriately.
· Implement and maintain effective record-keeping systems for participant registrations, contest results, and teacher training progress.
· Collaborate with support staff to ensure logistical support is in place for events, workshops, and training sessions.
5. Overseeing the effective development of the Science program
· Liaising with the Director of Operations and staff involved in the STEAM provision at the organisation, to develop and maintain the STEAM program
· Liaising with cross functional teams and Director of Mathematics Education, Country Council Partners (CCPs), to develop a STEAM contests, activities and events
6. Overseeing the effective development of the Teacher Training program
· Liaising with the Director of Operations and staff involved in the teacher training provision at the organisation, to develop and maintain the Teacher Training Program
· Liaising with cross functional teams and Director of Operations and IT, Country Council Partners (CCPs), collaborate with universities and institutions to develop a impactful Teacher Training Program
7. Other responsibilities
· Undertaking duties as the Director of Operations or a delegated representative may reasonably request.
Whilst every effort has been made to explain the main duties and responsibilities of the post, each individual task undertaken may not be identified. The post holder will be expected to comply with any reasonable request by the line manager to undertake work of a similar level that is not specified in this job description. This job description may be amended at any time following discussion between the line manager and member of staff, and will be reviewed annually.
SIMCC reserves the right to recruit at any stage during the selection process.
Person Specification
The successful candidate will be likely to fit the following profile:
Qualifications:
· At least a master’s degree in science with distinction from an university.
· At least a certificate in education leadership
· Evidence of further relevant professional development
Skills:
· Personal expertise in and a strong commitment to the teaching of Science
· The ability to lead, inspire, motivate and support pupils and colleagues
· The ability to be an outstanding advocate for Science education within the organisation and beyond
· Interests and abilities that can enhance the organisation’s new and innovative programs
· Have a vision for and the ability to translate SIMCC’s vision to be a leading organisation in educational contest provider globally.
· The ability to inspire others and lead by example, role modelling the SIMCC’s vision statement ‘Acquire Skills, Recognition and Scholarships for SUCCESS’ with pupils, teachers and parents
· The ability to work in a successful and dynamic educational organisation
· Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
· Excellent leadership, organisational, administrative and IT skills
Experience:
· A minimum of 2 years experience as a Principal/Senior management role or a minimum of 3 years of experience as a contest manager/exams officer for Cambridge or IB international programs.
· A minimum of 5 years of experience teaching international science (biology/physics/chemistry) curriculum such as IB or Cambridge to secondary school levels.
· A minimum of 4 years of experience in writing or vetting or moderating science Olympiad contest papers or have demonstrated scientific writing skills through publications of books or peer-reviewed journal articles
· Experience as an examiner for science subject such as biology/physics/chemistry for international curricula such as Cambridge or IB is desirable.
· Demonstrated experience in developing and delivering professional development to teachers in the areas of educational technology/pedagogy is essential.
· Proven experience as a leader of Science in a school environment
· A proven track record of leadership, impacting on whole school outcomes
· A proven track record of delivering on academic performance
· A proven track record of suitability for working with children and young people, including the ability to form and maintain appropriate relationship and personal boundaries
· Experience of leading and collaborating with colleagues
· Experience of analysing assessment data and using it to inform planning and development of contests
Knowledge:
· Up-to-date knowledge of successful and innovative STEM education and teaching program developments and initiatives
Personal Qualities:
· A dynamic leader and effective manager
· Ability to exercise discretion and confidentiality
· Personal warmth to gain the confidence of pupils, staff and parents
· Positive rapport with pupils
Attitudes:
· A team player with leadership qualities and a reflective and flexible approach
· Organised, energetic, positive and able to self-direct
· Positive, enthusiastic and energetic approach to life
· Ability to think creatively and imaginatively
· Committed to the SIMCC’s ethos
· High expectations for pupil attainment, personal development and conduct
· Committed to representing the organisation’s strategic vision
· Ambitious and aspirational for oneself and for the organisation
· Committed to professional development and show a willingness to undertake appropriate training as required
· A positive ‘can do’ approach in all aspects of the role
· High levels of personal presentation, integrity and communication skills