About the role
Are you looking for a role to inspire the chefs of the future?
We are seeking to appoint a suitably qualified Teacher of Food Technology to deliver high quality lessons from September 2026, to cover a period of maternity leave. If you are an excellent classroom practitioner, who is flexible, dedicated and passionate about delivering exceptional learning experiences, then we want to hear from you.
Food sits within the Technology Faculty and there is a Faculty Leader with each subject benefiting from a subject lead. In addition, there are two Food Technicians to support the delivery of high-quality lessons. The Technology Faculty is undergoing rapid improvement and is a popular subject at the school with high take up at Key Stage 4. As a school, we are committed to seeing this key faculty grow and develop. Given our location and the opportunities that exist for links with the hospitality trade, we want this faculty to play a key role in delivering for our students our mantra of ‘genuinely memorable experiences’.
Our Food Department delivers strong outcomes and is a very popular option at Level 2. We are therefore seeking to appoint a Teacher of Food Technology to meet the next stage of growth and development.
About us
At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.
Paignton Academy is on a significant improvement journey which was recognised in its most recent Ofsted report (December 2024):
The school has redesigned its curriculum to be broad and ambitious. The knowledge pupils will learn is organised in a logical order. The impact of these improvements is evident in key stage 3, where pupils demonstrate they know and remember more of what they have been taught.
Since the previous inspection, the quality of provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has improved. Pupils’ needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place. Teachers have a growing understanding of how to adapt their teaching successfully for the benefit of these pupils. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are included in the wider life of the school.
Pupils’ behaviour has improved. Lessons are calm and purposeful. The ‘speak up, speak out’ campaign has led to more pupils feeling confident to report concerns.
Why Paignton Academy?
• Strong Relationships: We value respectful connections between students, staff and parents, working together to ensure student success.
• Love of Learning: We foster a passion for lifelong learning, helping students grow into curious, well-rounded individuals.
• Community and Pride: We instil pride in both our school and the local community, empowering students to make a positive impact.
If you're passionate about shaping young lives and helping students reach their full potential, come join our team at Paignton Academy!
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust
The Thinking Schools Academy Trust is a family of schools consisting of both primary and secondary schools across the South West, South, South East and East of England.
We believe that every young person in our community deserves to have the best opportunities at life regardless of their individual circumstances. That’s why we invest in our people, so that our staff are best supported to positively impact our pupils.
Why join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust (TSAT)?
We’re proud to offer more than just a job - we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:
• Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences, to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
• Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.
• Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
• TSAT Benefits Portal: A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
• Blue Light Card: Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants and attractions.
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. As per Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE), we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates. If you have any questions regarding this process, please email .
What you need to do now
We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham, HR & Payroll Officer, by emailing to arrange an informal conversation about the role.
If you are interested in working at our school, benefitting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career, then please apply today!
Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.