Director of Science Education and Engagement

The Oxford Trust is an independent charitable trust that was established in 1985 by Oxford entrepreneurs the late Sir Martin Wood and Lady Audrey Wood, founders of Oxford Instruments. The Trust’s mission is to encourage the pursuit of science. The Trust strives to place science at the heart of culture in the region so that everyone, irrespective of age or background, can develop their scientific and technological knowledge and understanding, and science and tech companies can flourish and grow. The Oxford Trust is an environment where STEM-based entrepreneurs can deliver ground-breaking products and services, where success is celebrated and where young people, supported by teachers and families, can have stimulating STEM experiences that develop their understanding, skills, and aspirations. It operates via a simple, but effective sustainable business model. The income from the innovation centres is reinvested to support their innovation programme across the region and STEM-focused education and engagement programmes under Science Oxford.

The role of Director of Science Education and Engagement leads the Education and Public Engagement programme which annually reaches over 46,000. The programme is delivered at the Science Oxford Centre which is open to schools during the week and every Saturday for families to enjoy. It is also delivered through outreach to schools and communities via a range of activities.

At the core of Science Oxford’s programme is “Thinking, Talking, Doing Science” (TDTScience), developed by Trust employees in partnership with Oxford Brookes University. The TDTScience approach to science learning aims to provide opportunities for higher order thinking by making science more practical, creative and challenging for pupils with dedicated opportunities for discussion.

The Oxford Trust’s new Director of Science Education and Engagement will hold responsibility for the delivery of the Education and Public Engagement programme. This includes the management of all staff within the programme as well as budgets and resource planning. The post-holder will be expected to develop a regional network that supports the delivery of the Oxford Trust’s mission. They will also need to be visible internally as part of the organisation’s leadership team, making a personal contribution to the overall success of the Trust.

Applicants should be passionate about science education and the impact that it has on society and the environment. A sound understanding of education and delivery related to STEM will be required as will strong leadership and management qualities.

How to apply

Applications should consist of a CV accompanied by a covering letter addressing the criteria in the person specification.

If you are unable to apply online, please email your application to [email protected]   

For an informal, confidential discussion, please contact Liz James, Partner: [email protected]

Closing date for receipt of applications: 5pm Monday 15th April 2024