Lead Practitioner of Social Sciences – Secondary Academy in Preston (January Start)

An ambitious secondary academy in Preston, Lancashire, is seeking an articulate Lead Practitioner of Social Sciences to drive academic rigor, evaluative essay modeling, and vocational moderation starting in January. Job Overview This role combines expert classroom delivery across Key Stage 4 (GCSE Sociology) and Key Stage 5 (A-Level Sociology and Level 3 Applied Criminology) with strategic responsibility for whole-faculty pedagogy across the Social Sciences. Working alongside senior leadership and department colleagues, you will model evidence-based teaching strategies, lead peer lesson coaching, standardize 16-mark and 20-mark evaluative essay modeling, and oversee internal controlled assessment moderation for Criminology portfolios. This is a full-time, permanent contract. Key Responsibilities Teach high-rigor Sociology and Criminology lessons across Key Stage 4 and Key Stage 5 Lead departmental coaching on sociological theory, social research methodology, and evaluative critique Standardize internal controlled assessment marking and moderation procedures for Level 3 Criminology Analyze assessment tracking data to design targeted revision programs and mock exam interventions Mentor early-career teachers in the delivery of complex sociological paradigms and criminology units Support Sixth Form students preparing for competitive degree pathways in Law, Sociology, and Social Policy Role Overview & Specifications Start Date: January Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract Location: Preston, Lancashire Salary / Pay Rate: Lead Practitioner Scale (LP1–LP5 equivalent) Key Curriculum: AQA Sociology & WJEC Level 3 Criminology Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS, QTLS) with an honors degree in Sociology, Criminology, or a related social science Consistent history of delivering top-tier Key Stage 5 examination and coursework outcomes Prior experience in peer coaching, curriculum innovation, or key stage coordination Deep subject expertise across sociological research methods and contemporary crime policy An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply) How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this Lead Practitioner position in Preston for a January start.