Head of Design Technology Location: Redbridge, East London Contract Type: Permanent Start Date: September 2026 Salary: MPS/UPS TLR (dependent on experience) Job Purpose The school is seeking to appoint an ambitious and inspiring Head of Design Technology to lead and develop a successful Design Technology department. The successful candidate will be responsible for driving high standards of teaching and learning, curriculum development, and student outcomes across all areas of Design Technology. This is an excellent opportunity for an experienced teacher or current middle leader who is passionate about Design Technology and committed to inclusive, high-quality education. Key Responsibilities Leadership and Management (Head of Department Duties) * Provide strategic leadership and clear vision for the Design Technology department in line with whole-school priorities * Lead, support, and manage members of the Design Technology team, including mentoring and performance management * Monitor, evaluate, and improve the quality of teaching and learning within the department * Oversee departmental self-evaluation and contribute to the school improvement plan * Manage the department’s budget effectively, ensuring value for money and appropriate resourcing * Ensure health and safety requirements are met at all times within workshops and teaching spaces * Lead departmental meetings and contribute to whole-school middle leadership initiatives Curriculum and Assessment * Design, implement, and regularly review an engaging and ambitious Design Technology curriculum at KS3 and KS4 (and KS5 if applicable) * Ensure schemes of work reflect current national curriculum requirements and examination specifications * Monitor student progress, attainment, and achievement, using data effectively to inform planning and intervention * Lead on assessment, moderation, and standardisation within the department * Promote creativity, problem-solving, and practical skills across all Design Technology disciplines Teaching and Learning * Deliver high-quality Design Technology lessons that inspire and challenge students of all abilities * Model excellent classroom practice and high expectations * Promote inclusive teaching strategies to support SEND and disadvantaged pupils * Use assessment for learning effectively to improve student outcomes Wider Contribution * Contribute to enrichment opportunities such as clubs, competitions, trips, or STEM-related activities * Work collaboratively with other departments and pastoral teams * Communicate effectively with parents and carers regarding student progress and achievement * Uphold the school’s values, behaviour policies, and safeguarding procedures Person Specification Essential * Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) * A strong subject knowledge across Design Technology specialisms * Proven experience of delivering successful outcomes at KS3 and KS4 * Evidence of leadership or the potential to lead a department effectively * Strong organisational, communication, and interpersonal skills * Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children Desirable * Previous experience as a Head of Department or in a middle leadership role * Experience teaching GCSE and/or A Level Design Technology * Evidence of curriculum innovation and raising attainment The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references