Head of Design & Technology - Secondary Academy in Southampton (January Start)

Design & Technology is an integral part of this academy’s technical curriculum and maritime/structural engineering links. The successful candidate will provide strategic leadership across Key Stage 3 DT, GCSE Design & Technology (Timber, Metals & Polymers), and Key Stage 5 A-Level Product Design, taking overall operational responsibility for workshop safety compliance, equipment maintenance, and Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) internal moderation.

Working closely with senior leadership and a team of workshop technicians, you will refine parametric CAD/CAM schemes of work, manage modern digital manufacturing tools (3D printing arrays, laser cutters, CNC milling), and ensure safe workshop practice. This is a full-time, permanent contract., * Provide strategic vision, curriculum planning, and day-to-day management for the Design & Technology department

• Teach practical workshop manufacturing and theoretical Product Design lessons across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5
• Line-manage, observe, and mentor departmental teachers and workshop technicians
• Enforce statutory workshop health and safety standards (DATA/CLEAPSS) and maintain machinery servicing logs
• Direct GCSE and A-Level NEA coursework moderation, prototype verification, and exam board submissions
• Coordinate extra-curricular engineering clubs, industrial site visits, and national design challenges

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with an honors degree in Design & Technology, Product Design, Architecture, or Mechanical Engineering
• Proven history of delivering strong GCSE and A-Level Design & Technology examination and NEA outcomes
• Valid, up-to-date machine safety certification (DATA / CLEAPSS accredited)
• Advanced proficiency in 2D/3D CAD software (SolidWorks, Fusion 360, 2D Design) and CNC machinery
• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)