Responsibilities:

Drive Academic Excellence and Scholar Achievement:

• Lead the implementation of a high-quality instructional program that promotes content mastery and critical thinking, aligned with the National Senior Certificate (NSC) requirements.
• Use quantitative (assessment) and qualitative (anecdotal) data to monitor scholar progress, identify gaps, and implement targeted interventions to ensure that all scholars are on track to meet matriculation standards.

Teach Life Science Classes

• Plan for, teach and co-teach face to face and distance lessons for and deliver academic lessons.
• Collaborate with grade level and content area partners to develop rigorous, engaging learning experiences and to create and implement high quality individualised behaviour and learning plans for scholars.

Oversee Data-Driven Instruction:

• Ensure the consistent use of formative and summative assessments to inform instruction, providing actionable feedback to educators and scholars.
• Analyze academic performance data regularly, using insights to drive improvements in instructional practices and to develop personalized learning plans for at-risk scholars.

Support Matric Readiness and Exam Preparation:

• Lead efforts to prepare scholars for the National Senior Certificate (NSC) exams, including coordinating mock exams, study sessions, and targeted academic support for Grade 12 scholars.
• Ensure that scholars are equipped with strong study skills, time management techniques, and a clear understanding of NSC requirements to meet a 100% pass rate target.

Coach Teachers to Excellence:

• Develop and implement a comprehensive coaching and development plan for teachers, ensuring they are equipped to deliver high-quality, rigorous instruction that meets the needs of all scholars. ○ Conduct regular classroom observations, provide actionable feedback, and facilitate coaching sessions to help teachers improve their instructional practices, classroom management, and learner engagement strategies.
• Lead professional development initiatives that focus on best practices in teaching, instructional innovation, and data-driven decision-making, ensuring teachers continually refine their skills and stay up-to-date with current educational trends.
• Build a culture of continuous improvement where teachers are encouraged to reflect on their practice, set professional growth goals, and collaborate with peers to achieve excellence.

Develop a Strong School Academic Culture:

• Promote a culture of academic rigor, responsibility, and continuous improvement, ensuring that scholars take ownership of their learning.
• Lead initiatives that focus on character development alongside academic growth, reinforcing SPARK Schools’ core values (Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility, Kindness) within the academic context.

Collaborate with Leadership for Holistic Scholar Support:

• Work closely with the Principal, Assistant Principals, and School Leadership Team to ensure that academic, behavioral, and social-emotional support systems are integrated and effectively address the needs of all scholars.
• Engage parents and the broader community in the academic process, building partnerships that contribute to scholar success.

Monitor and Improve Academic Interventions:

• Lead the development of individualized academic plans for scholars identified as at-risk, ensuring that tailored interventions are in place to close learning gaps.
• Monitor the effectiveness of interventions through ongoing data analysis and ensure adjustments are made to improve scholar outcomes.

Ensure Effective Use of Blended Learning Models:

• Oversee the integration of technology-enhanced learning through SPARK Schools’ blended learning model, ensuring that online and in-person instruction complement each other to drive student achievement.
• Regularly evaluate the effectiveness of blended learning tools and provide feedback and training to teachers on optimizing these resources.

Support Scholar Responsibility and Self-Regulated Learning:

• Encourage scholars to take responsibility for their learning by developing study plans, setting academic goals, and engaging in self-assessment.
• Implement programs that foster scholar autonomy, time management, and accountability, preparing them for the rigors of high school and beyond.

Ensure Compliance with Educational Standards and Policies:

• Ensure the academic program aligns with the requirements of the Department of Basic Education and Umalusi accreditation, preparing scholars to meet national education standards.
• Lead efforts to comply with regulatory and reporting requirements, ensuring that all academic records and assessments are in line with SPARK Schools’ policies.

Qualifications and Criteria:

The ideal candidate will possess the following qualifications and criteria:

• English language fluency
• Completed B.Ed or PGCE degree (SP & FET) majoring in Life Sciences
• Familiarity with high school Matric requirements including Senior and FET phase CAPs curricula with speciality in the Sciences
• SACE registration
• A clear/clean criminal record
• Completed at least 3-4 years of excellent classroom instruction in intermediate, senior or FET phase
• Held a leadership role in primary school or high school

Qualities:

● Grit: Persistence through challenges.

● Excellence: A track record of high expectations personally and professionally.

● Mission and Vision Alignment: Understanding of and passion for the SPARK Schools mission to provide excellent education at an affordable cost.

● Self Reflection: Finding the capacity to bring your best self to challenges and opportunities.

SPARK offers:

• fair market linked remuneration

• performance-based annual bonuses and increases

• above average/good annual leave

• life, disability and funeral cover

• employee wellness support

• educational support & study leave

• individualised professional development, support and mentorship

• employee discount on school fees

• opportunities for career growth