Worthing High School
Recruitment Pack
September 2026
Senior Science
Technician
Welcome Thank you for your interest in joining South Downs Education Trust. As a cross-phase multi-academy trust based in the heart of West Sussex, we are proud to offer a unique blend of pastoral care and high-quality, inclusive education.
We believe every child and young person reaches their full potential - regardless of their starting point. Our core values guide everything we do:
We are excited to welcome passionate and dedicated professionals who share our vision and values. Whether you are at the start of your career or looking for your next challenge, South Downs Education Trust offers a supportive, ambitious, and collaborative environment where you can truly thrive.
We look forward to the possibility of welcoming you to our team.
Warm regards
Pan Panayiotou
Chief Executive Officer South Downs Education Trust
About us South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is a dynamic and growing Multi-Academy Trust (MAT) committed to delivering exceptional educational outcomes across our schools.
Currently comprising two schools, we have ambitious plans to expand by incorporating at least two additional schools in the near future. We are seeking a skilled and proactive People Manager to drive our people strategy and support our growth.
Community – By working as one, we share expertise and achieve more for our schools.
Resilience – We prioritise the wellbeing of students and staff, fostering a culture of care, balance, and strength.
Integrity – We act with honesty and stay true to our values in all that we do. Respect – We celebrate individuality and encourage everyone to bring their unique strengths and perspectives.
Excellence – We are committed to delivering the very highest standards in education.
Welcome Thank you for your interest in joining Worthing High School. As Headteacher, I am proud to lead a vibrant, inclusive and ambitious community where every student is supported to achieve their very best.
At Worthing High School, we believe in high standards, mutual respect and a relentless focus on both academic excellence and personal development. Our dedicated staff team works collaboratively to provide a rich curriculum, a wide range of opportunities beyond the classroom and a culture where wellbeing is valued for both students and colleagues alike.
We are a school rooted in strong values: Community, Resilience, Integrity, Respect and Excellence and these principles guide everything we do. We are committed to developing both our students and our staff, offering professional growth, trust and the chance to make a lasting impact.
I hope this pack gives you a clear sense of our vision and ethos. We look forward to welcoming talented, motivated professionals who share our commitment to making Worthing High School the very best it can be for every student.
Warm regards
Alex Simpson
Headteacher
Worthing High School
Job description Job title
Salary
Location
Contract
Senior Science Technician
NJC GRADE 6, points 9 - 12 (£27,254 to £28,598
FTE). Actual salary at 25.5 hours £14,279 - £14,983.
Worthing High School
Permanent contract role from October 2026 - 25.5
hours per week across 4-5 days, 39 weeks per year
(Term time plus Inset days). Flexibility with hours
considered.
Accountability Report to Science Department Lead, responsible for
Science Technician Team
Role description
To lead the day to day operation of the Science Technician team, ensuring
laboratories are safe, well organised and fully equipped for high-quality
practical science teaching. The Senior Science Technician will work closely
with the Leader of Science to develop outstanding practical provision,
maintain an exceptional learning environment and support staff in delivering
an ambitious science curriculum. The postholder will lead on technician
systems, resource management, health and safety compliance, stock control
and technician development, while continuing to provide hands-on practical
support across the department.
Qualifications and Experience
Educated to GCSE Grade C standard or above in English, Maths and a
Science Subject (or equivalent)
Degree or Higher Education qualification in a science discipline (desirable)
Relevant health and safety qualification, e.g. CLEAPSS training (desirable)
First aid qualification, or willingness to train (desirable)
Experience working as a science or laboratory technician in a secondary
school or similar setting
Experience preparing practical lessons and managing chemicals,
equipment and resources
Experience in ordering, stock control and monitoring budgets
Experience supervising, mentoring or training other technicians (desirable)
Ability to plan, prioritise and allocate the workload of a technician team
Ability to delegate tasks while maintaining oversight of departmental
operations
Experience leading a technician team, including appraisals or performance
support (desirable)
Working knowledge of biology, chemistry and physics practical requirements
across KS3 and GCSE
Thorough understanding of health and safety legislation, CLEAPSS guidance
and COSHH regulations
Knowledge of safe chemical storage, handling and disposal
Confident use of Microsoft Office and stock management or record keeping
systems
Key Responsibilities
Main duties and responsibilities include:
Leadership and supervision of the technician team
• Plan, prioritise and allocate the day to day workload of technician staff tomeet curriculum needs
• Provide day to day leadership, supervision and training for the technicianteam, supporting their professional development
• Induct, mentor and support the development of new technicians
• Monitor the standards and performance of the technician team and providefeedback
• Act as the main point of contact for teaching staff on technical requests,co-ordinating support across the department
• Contribute to one-to-one meetings, team meetings and, whereappropriate, appraisal of technician staff
Technical and curriculum support
• Oversee the preparation of practical equipment and materials for KS3 andGCSE lessons
• Give technical advice to teachers and other technicians, including earlycareer and trainee teachers
• Contribute to the design, construction and modification of apparatus anddemonstrations
• Set up and maintain any live specimens or plant collections
• Prepare standard solutions, purify chemicals and treat waste materials
• Support practical assessments, enrichment activities and STEM events
Laboratory and resource management
• Maintain all laboratories, preparation rooms and storage areas to a highstandard
• Organise equipment and resources efficiently, including annual equipmentaudits
• Check stock levels and place orders, liaising with suppliers and the financeteam
• Source and cost materials, suggesting economic alternatives
whereappropriate
Maintain accurate and up to date stock and inventory records
• Carry out routine and non-routine checking, cleaning, calibration and
repairof equipment, arranging servicing by external contractors where
required
Health and safety
• Lead on laboratory health and safety, ensuring compliance with
CLEAPSSguidance and COSHH regulations
• Carry out and review risk assessments for technician and practical
activities
• Ensure the safe storage, handling, transport and disposal of
chemicals and hazardous substances
• Organise the checking of fume cupboards, pressure vessels,
electricalequipment and first aid provision
• Clean and make safe any spills, breakages or related incidents
• Keep up to date with health and safety requirements and developments
inpractical science
Administration and record keeping
• Maintain accurate technician records, including training, accident and
stockrecords
• Monitor consumable usage and co-ordinate servicing schedules
• Assist
with departmental administration, such as data entry, in a nonteaching
capacity
• Be aware of data protection requirements to ensure records and
informationare handled correctly
Professional responsibilities
• Participate in appraisal, training and professional development activities
•
Contribute positively to the wider life of the school, including meetings and
events as required
• Promote safeguarding, equality and inclusion
• Maintain confidentiality at all times
• Undertake any other duties reasonably regarded as within the nature of
therole and grade of the post.
This job description is not exhaustive and duties may be varied from time to
time at the discretion of the school, in consultation with the postholder.
Person Specification
Personal Qualities
Excellent verbal and written communication skills, with the ability to
work with staff, students and suppliers
Confident acting as the main point of contact for technical requests
from teaching staff
Tact, diplomacy and discretion when dealing with sensitive situations
Proactive and helpful attitude towards staff, students and parents
Able to work independently and use initiative to resolve problems
Excellent attention to detail and accurate record keeping
Highly organised, with the ability to manage competing priorities and
meet deadlines
Reliable, punctual, and committed to high standards of work.
Flexible and adaptable approach, and calm under pressure
Values and Professional Conduct
Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
Commitment to equality, diversity, and inclusion.
Understanding of confidentiality, data protection and professional
boundaries.
Alignment with the school’s ethos and values.
Willingness to engage in training and continuous development.
Commitment to providing excellent service to pupils, families, and other
staff.
What We Offer
A friendly and supportive environment.
The opportunity to work with well-motivated students and supportive parents and staff.
A location on the coast very close to main line railway services and road networks.
Free well-being and medical support cover.
The opportunity to be part of the South Downs Education Trust MAT.
Free use of our fitness suite.
Opportunities for professional development and career advancement.
The chance to make a lasting impact on the lives of staff and students.
Competitive salary package and benefits aligned with sector standards.
The chance to work in a DfE Attendance and Behaviour Hub Lead school.
How to apply
If you feel you have the necessary skills for this position and would like
further information, an application form and job description can be
downloaded from the links provided on the school website at
www.worthinghigh.net/vacancies.
Completed application forms should be sent to Mr Alex Simpson,
Headteacher at Worthing High School at vacancies@sdetrust.net by
Wednesday 14th October 2026 at 9am.
Interview week commencing 19th October 2026. Interview dates will
be provided to shortlisted candidates.
NOTE FOR RECRUITMENT AGENCIES: We prefer to hire people directly but we do have a preferred supplier list for when we need a helping hand. We will be in touch if we need you.
Please note, because of the nature of this job, if you are successful in your application, you will be subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service with barred list check. This will be done by means of applying for a DBS certificate through the Disclosure and Barring Service. Disclosures include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings as well as convictions, spent or unspent. Clearance will be obtained before employment commences. We will also complete media searches as part of due diligence and safeguarding checks in line with KCSIE guidance.
• South Downs Education Trust (SDET) is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
• Worthing High School & Clapham and Patching C of E Primary school are part of SDET, which is an academy trust and a charitable company limited by guarantee and registered in England and Wales with company number 8276210. The Registered Office is at: South Farm Road, Worthing, West Sussex BN14 7AR
• We recognise continuous service from academy/non-academy schools
“As an Apprentice School Business Manager within South
Downs Education Trust, I felt supported from day one by
colleagues who are always willing to share their expertise
and who are genuinely invested in your development. The
trust offers excellent opportunities to gain practical
experience and develop the skills your future, making it a
great place to grow.
Working across both trust schools has given me valuable
insight into different operational approaches and has
allowed me to gain experience in a wide range of areas.
The support has allowed me to build my confidence and
understanding in school business management and
administration in practice."
Louise Hrycyszyn, Junior School Business Manager
- Welcome
- About us
- Welcome
- Alex Simpson
- Job description
- Role description
- Qualifications and Experience
- Key Responsibilities
- Person Specification
- What We Offer
- How to apply