Head of Mathematics, St. Mary’s Preparatory School, Melrose

(Possible School Management role for suitably qualified applicants)

St. Mary’s Preparatory School is a leading independent Day and Flexi-Boarding School for pupils aged 2–13 years, situated in the beautiful and historic town of Melrose in the Scottish Borders. A twice-hourly train service from Edinburgh makes the school accessible from the capital city by rail.

We invite applications from inspiring, passionate and ambitious practitioners to lead our Mathematics Department from January 2027. As well as teaching Mathematics to the highest standard, including preparation for ISEB Common Entrance, the successful candidate will demonstrate a commitment to leading and motivating both pupils and staff across the department.

At St. Mary’s, we believe that a strong understanding of mathematics is fundamental to a well-rounded education. We are committed to ensuring that every child:

Enjoys learning mathematics
Develops fluency in key mathematical skills
Understands the application of mathematics in real-life contexts
Builds resilience and confidence in problem solving
Appreciates the power and beauty of mathematics
Is fully prepared for Common Entrance and senior school mathematics

The successful candidate will take responsibility for leading mathematics teaching and learning across the whole school, from Reception to Form 8, while teaching senior pupils, typically within the two highest year groups.

The successful candidate will demonstrate the following qualities:

A passion for teaching Mathematics
A high level of academic qualification in Mathematics and/or experience teaching to Common Entrance core and additional levels (or equivalent) and beyond
An ambition to elicit the very best from every pupil through challenging, engaging and differentiated lessons
The ability to plan and deliver a curriculum that is progressive, coherent, creative and innovative
A commitment to developing mathematical understanding through real-life application and problem solving
The ability to lead, inspire and support colleagues in the delivery of the mathematics curriculum across the whole school
Experience of monitoring teaching and learning and modelling excellent classroom practice
The ability to develop and maintain effective assessment, tracking and reporting systems to monitor pupil progress and attainment
The confidence to lead departmental development, including resources, enrichment opportunities (e.g. UK Mathematics Trust challenges), and cross-curricular links
A sound understanding of Microsoft products, in particular Teams, and a desire to employ digital technology to enhance teaching and learning
Excellent organisational, leadership and administrative skills
The ability to work collaboratively within a collegiate environment and contribute fully to the life of the school
An interest in coaching rugby, hockey and cricket would be desirable but not essential.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching, Learning and Curriculum

Lead and oversee mathematics provision across the school from Reception to Form 8
Ensure a coherent, progressive curriculum that prepares pupils effectively for ISEB Common Entrance
Model outstanding teaching practice and support high-quality delivery across all classes
Promote engagement, enjoyment and resilience in mathematics learning
Coordinate enrichment opportunities and mathematical competitions

Leadership and Management

Lead and manage the Mathematics Department, including meetings, planning and development
Support and mentor colleagues through observation, feedback and professional guidance
Contribute to staffing decisions and resource management
Represent the department in wider school discussions and planning forums.

Assessment and Monitoring

Develop and maintain effective assessment systems to track pupil progress
Analyse performance data to identify strengths, gaps and trends
Work closely with the Director of Studies and colleagues to support pupil achievement, including Common Entrance processes
Ensure accuracy and consistency in reporting and assessment practices

The successful candidate will become part of a staff team that collaborates effectively to develop ambitious, confident and caring young people who strive to achieve their best in all areas of school life. Staff are expected to contribute to the co-curricular programme and attend key school events, including occasional evenings and weekends, as directed by the Headmaster.

This is a full-time permanent position, with salary dependent on qualifications and experience.

Lodgings are available for the successful candidate if relocating.

Letter of Application and CV submitted to the Headmaster at St. Mary’s School by Friday 12th June (headmaster@stmarysmelrose.org.uk)

Interviews will take place week beginning Monday 15th June

St. Mary's Prep School, Melrose

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