Log In
Sign Up
About Us The University of Cambridge is one of the world’s leading academic institutions, renowned for its excellence in education, research, and innovation. For nearly 800 years, we’ve been at the forefront of groundbreaking discoveries, shaping global knowledge across diverse fields.
The Faculty of Education is recognised as one of the top initial teacher education providers in the U.K. The Secondary PGCE Programme prepares about 170 PGCE students each year for careers in secondary schools. It provides high-quality subject-specific and professional studies teaching, alongside professional placements in partnership schools.
We are now looking to appoint a Teaching Associate in Secondary PGCE Science/Biology on a part-time basis for a fixed-term contract until 30th September 2027. This role is expected to commence on the 1st September 2026.
The Benefits
Salary of £35,608 – £46,049 per annum pro rata
Generous annual leave allowance
Generous maternity, adoption and shared parental leave entitlement and other family-friendly schemes
An auto-enrolment pension scheme, with a generous employer contribution
University Staff Counselling Service
Travel benefits and retail discounts at over 2,000 local and national stores
Schemes to support relocation
Development opportunities
This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced secondary Science/Biology educator with a passion for developing the next generation of teachers to join our leading university.
You’ll have the chance to play a pivotal role in shaping the future of science education, supporting PGCE students as they develop the knowledge, confidence and skills needed to thrive in the classroom and make a lasting impact on young people’s lives.
What’s more, you’ll discover a highly respected and collaborative environment, giving you the opportunity to work alongside leading practitioners, strengthen your professional network and contribute to the continued excellence of initial teacher education.
The Role
As a Teaching Associate, you will support the delivery of our Secondary PGCE Science/Biology programme, helping trainee teachers develop across both their academic studies and school-based experiences.
Acting as a Subject Lecturer, you will provide academic guidance and pastoral support to PGCE students throughout their training, while contributing to curriculum development, teaching workshops and seminars, and maintaining key programme resources, ensuring a high-quality student experience.
Additionally, You Will
Supervise and assess master’s-level assignments and provide formative feedback
Undertake school visits and review professional documentation
Support the recruitment and selection of PGCE students, including interviews
Contribute to mentor development sessions, course meetings and Ofsted preparation activities
Plan and support partnership events with mentors and schools
Liaise with University, Faculty, College and school pastoral systems to support student wellbeing and inclusion
About You
To be considered a Teaching Associate, you will need:
Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
Substantial experience as an expert secondary Science/Biology practitioner within UK 11¿18 education settings
Experience of involvement in initial teacher education, including mentoring or developing student teachers or early career teachers
A proven track record of practitioner research and/or other scholarly activity
Up-to-date knowledge of policy and current research relating to initial teacher education and/or secondary Science/Biology education
The ability to contribute broadly to the Secondary PGCE programme and respond effectively to changes in policy and practice
Availability to work flexibly across the academic and calendar year
A master’s degree in a relevant subject
Click the ‘Apply’ button below to register an account with our recruitment system (if you have not already) and apply online.
For detailed information about the role and working for the University, please see the ‘Further Information’ link at the bottom of the advert.
Informal enquiries are welcomed and should be directed to Professor Mark
Winterbottom (Deputy Head of Department -Teaching) via email
mw244@cam.ac.uk
If you have any questions about the application process, or have any difficulties with applying for the vacancy, please contact the Faculty of Education HR team at hr@educ.cam.ac.uk
Please quote reference JR49923 on your application and in any correspondence about this vacancy.
The University actively supports equality, diversity and inclusion and encourages applications from all sections of society.
The University has a responsibility to ensure that all employees are eligible to live and work in the UK.