Principal Teacher of Biology, Stromness Academy

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Principal Teacher of Biology

Stromness Academy

35 hours per week

Permanent

The purpose of this role is to lead, manage and support the work of colleagues
providing strategic direction and guidance as necessary, alongside teaching assigned
classes.

We are looking for a committed and dynamic Principal Teacher of Biology to lead our Biology Department. As Principal Teacher, you will be a skilled and enthusiastic educator; fully committed to the learning and teaching approaches of the school and to inspiring and motivating pupils and colleagues. You will be expected to teach Biology across the full range of our senior phase courses, and Science across S1-3.

You will be responsible for the strategic leadership of the Biology department and, alongside colleagues, the Science department. You will be responsible for self-evaluation of the department and the development and implementation of a departmental improvement plan, working with department colleagues to deliver high-quality learning and teaching for all individuals. As part of our extended leadership team, you will contribute to whole school self-evaluation processes and the school improvement plan to ensure whole school continuous improvement.

Stromness Academy is a six-year secondary school on a well-appointed campus in Orkney, which is frequently voted the best place in the UK to bring up children. Our pupils were acknowledged by HMIE to be polite and welcoming, and a considerable strength of the school. Our catchment area covers the town of Stromness and the West Mainland, a dispersed population with over two thirds of our pupils being bussed into school. The small size of our school (approximately 350 on roll), and our classes, means we know our pupils well and can be flexible to meet their needs. We are committed to providing a positive and purposeful environment where all our pupils achieve, as set out in our school vision. This is an exciting opportunity for the right candidate to become part of a forward-looking school and a rich and vibrant community.

Further information about the school and our activities can be found on our website www.stromnessacademy.org.uk and our Facebook page.

Salary will be based on point 2 of the Principal Teacher SNCT Salary Table plus Distant Islands Allowance.

The necessary qualification, experience and skills required for this role are detailed in the ‘must have’ section of the attached job profile. These criteria are used for decisions on shortlisting and appointment of applicants.

You will be reporting to the Head Teacher.

Your working pattern is Monday to Friday.

This post is a regulated role with children and requires Level 2 Disclosure with PVG scheme membership.

Interview expenses are payable for this post, click here for further information.

Relocation package is available in line with Council Policy for this post, click here for the Relocation Policy.

Applications close at 23:59 on Wednesday 29 April 2026 with shortlisting taking place shortly after and interviews are scheduled for week beginning 11 May 2026.

For a discussion about the role, contact Paul Barber at paul.barber@orkney.gov.uk or on 01856 850660

We would welcome your feedback on our recruitment process.