Science Laboratory Technician

To apply for this vacancy, please submit an application form through the Royal Ballet School website -

OVERALL PURPOSE OF THE POST

The Science Laboratory Technician will support the delivery of the Science curriculum at White Lodge by ensuring practical lessons are effectively prepared, maintained and supported. The postholder will play a key role in maintaining a safe, organised and well-resourced laboratory environment for both students and staff.

SUMMARY OF THE ROLE

Working under the direction of the Head of Science, and in their absence the Science Teacher, the Science Laboratory Technician will prepare and clear practical lessons, manage laboratory stock and equipment, support health and safety compliance, and undertake administrative tasks to support the department. The postholder will ensure the laboratory and preparation room remain organised, safe and fully equipped to support teaching and learning.

CONTRACT TERMS

Hours: 14 hours per week (0.4 FTE) performed over two seven hour days. The School can be flexible to support the successful candidates preference on days. This position is term time only.

Location: White Lodge, Richmond Park, TW10 5HR

Salary: circa £12,800 (0.4 FTE)

Start Date: September 2026

Application Deadline: 17 July 2026

MAIN DUTIES

Laboratory Support:

• Prepare apparatus, equipment and chemicals for practical teaching activities

• Clear away and return apparatus and chemicals to appropriate storage following lessons

• Assist teaching staff during practical lessons where required

• Support the testing, maintenance and basic repair of laboratory equipment

• Report equipment faults promptly to the Head of Science.

Stock and Resource Management:

• Maintain inventories of laboratory equipment, chemicals and materials

• Undertake regular stock checks and maintain accurate records using appropriate IT systems

• Inform the Head of Science when materials or equipment require replenishment

• Ensure laboratory resources are organised, accessible and fit for purpose.

Health & Safety:

• Dispose of chemicals, broken glass and other laboratory waste in accordance with CLEAPSS guidance and school procedures

• Support the maintenance of a safe working environment within the laboratory and preparation room

• Ensure compliance with all relevant health and safety regulations and risk management procedures.

Administrative Support:

• Assist with photocopying and preparation of teaching resources

• Support departmental administration, including ordering materials and maintaining records where required.

General:

• Attend relevant training and professional development activities as agreed with the Head of Science

• Undertake any other duties reasonably required within the scope of the role.

PERSON SPECIFICATION

ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

• Experience working within a school science laboratory or similar scientific environment

• Knowledge of laboratory health and safety procedures and willingness to undertake or maintain CLEAPSS training

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with both young people and colleagues

• Good organisational skills and attention to detail

• Competent IT skills, including Microsoft Office applications, or willingness to undertake training

• Professional, reliable and punctual approach to work

• Flexible and collaborative team player

• Empathy with the aims, values and ethos of The Royal Ballet School.

DESIRABLE CRITERIA

• CLEAPSS qualification or certification

• Previous experience supporting practical science teaching across multiple disciplines

• Experience of inventory or stock management

• Experience working within an educational setting.

SAFEGUARDING RESPONSIBILITIES AND DUTIES :

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and recognises that safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children is everyone’s responsibility. The School expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment to children’s safeguarding and to share this child-centred approach. This approach means that staff must consider, at all times, what is in the best interests of the child. Additionally, the following is expected of all staff:

• To uphold the School’s policies relating to safeguarding and child protection, behaviour, health and safety and all other relevant policies

• To promote and safeguard the welfare of children and young persons for whom you are responsible and come into contact with

• To report any safeguarding concerns using the relevant channels, such as informing the Designated Safeguarding Lead, in a timely and appropriate manner

• To ensure full compliance with all statutory regulations, particularly the most recent Keeping Children Safe in Education, and to communicate concerns to the Designated Safeguarding Lead, other relevant staff of The Royal Ballet School or local children’s services as appropriate.

This job information cannot be all encompassing. It is inevitable over time that the emphasis of the job will change without changing the general character of the job or the level of duties and responsibilities entailed. Consequently, this information will be periodically reviewed, revised and updated in consultation with the post holder to reflect appropriate changes.

We are committed to creating an environment where all our employees feel part of our team and can flourish, regardless of their background. We’re proud to be an inclusive workplace that promotes and values diversity.