Science Technician

Science Technician

Could you make a REAL difference?
Become part of the Ark Charter community and work alongside our dedicated team of teachers, support staff and senior leaders to raise the expectations of a community, and spark a passion for learning in our young people which will last them a lifetime.
 
Our teachers and support staff work hard every day to inspire each and every student to develop skills which will help them to achieve their full potential - both in the classroom and beyond. We pride ourselves in recognising hard work and rewarding it accordingly, providing opportunities for professional and personal growth in school and across the wider Ark network.

As well as professional development, we also take the wellbeing of our staff seriously, as we recognise that teaching can be a challenging profession. That’s why we give our staff more periods for planning, preparation and marking than in Local Authority schools, ensure most meetings take place during our working day to protect our valuable free time, and receive regular rewards and recognition from the Principal for our effort and enthusiasm.

Currently, we are unable to offer a visit to our school but we are very happy to welcome any queries or questions. Please contact j.morris@charteracademy.org.uk with any queries you may have.

Job Description: Science Technician  
 
Reporting to: Head of Faculty 
Location:  Science Department Ark Charter Academy
Contract:    Permanent 
Working Pattern:Full Time (36hrs pw) Term Time only (39 weeks pa)
Salary: Ark Support Scale  Band 5, Points 5 – 12 £18,795 - £21,589 – pro rata £16,095 - £18,488
Start Date: TBA - Summer Term - current situation dependent

Please note that candidates may be interviewed prior to the closing date so please apply early to avoid disappointment

The Role 
As a Science Technician, you will support teachers in delivering high quality practical work, inspiring students and enabling them to develop a deeper understanding of science. You will also maintain excellent standards of Health and Safety in all areas of the department.

Key Responsibilities 

Learning support
Support teachers when planning and carrying out practical work, highlighting any health and safety causes for concern, following CLEAPSS guidelines
Prepare and trail practical resources as per department schemes of work
Prioritise practical requisitions, delivering, setting up and clearing away practicals 
Provide technical, safety and learning assistance in lessons, supporting students and staff
Provide reprographic support to the department as directed by HoF

Health & Safety 
Ensure all equipment are properly repaired, maintained and stored 
Ensure the labs and safety equipment are properly maintained
During term time, manage the care of animals and plants and long term experiments
Procure biological consumables and other perishable items as necessary
Run risk assessments related to normal working tasks carried out, including tasks in the preparation room
Provide First Aid as required (voluntary)
Maintain accurate stock inventories

Other 
Actively promote the safety and welfare of our children and young people  
Ensure compliance with Arks data protection rules and procedures 
Liaise with colleagues and external contacts at all levels of seniority with confidence, tact and diplomacy 
Work with Ark Central and other academies in the Ark network, to establish good practice throughout the network, offering support where required 
 
This job description is not an exhaustive list and you will be expected to carry out any other reasonable tasks as directed by your line manager.  

Person Specification: Science Technician

Qualifications
Minimum of A Level Grade C or above (or equiv) in a science subject, ideally qualified to degree level 
Health and Safety qualification or training or commitment to work towards 
First Aid qualification or training or commitment to work towards, desirable 
 
Knowledge, Skills and Experience  
Experience of working in a laboratory in a school or other industry, desirable 
Experience, knowledge or a keen interest of key practical demonstrations that demonstrate key scientific concepts and engage students 
Up-to-date knowledge of COSHH procedures and CLEAPPS requirements
Knowledge of Health & Safety risk assessment 
Strong IT, administrative and organisational skills 
Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with children and adults 
Able to deal with minor incidents including first aid

Behaviours 
Genuine passion for and a belief in the potential of every pupil  
A robust awareness of keeping children safe, noticing safeguarding and welfare concerns, and you understand how and when to take appropriate action.  
Belief that every student should have access to an excellent education regardless of background 
Professional outlook, detailed orientated and able to multi-task and meet deadlines 
A team player that can work collaboratively as well as using own initiative 
Helpful, positive, patient and caring nature 
Calm and professional under pressure 
Understanding of the importance of confidentiality and discretion 
Flexible attitude towards work and demonstrates sound judgement 

Other 
Right to work in the UK 
Commitment to equality of opportunity and the safeguarding and welfare of all students 
Willingness to undertake training 
This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check 
 
 Ark is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people in our academies.  In order to meet this responsibility, we follow a rigorous selection process. This process is outlined here, but can be provided in more detail if requested. All successful candidates will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check

Science Technician
Location: Ark Charter Academy
Salary: £18,795 - £21,589 pro rata