Head of Department - Design Technology

Pay: Paid to scale (MPS/UPS + TLR 2b)
Start Date: January 2026 | Contract: Permanent | Full-time

Lead innovation and excellence in Design & Technology across a forward-thinking secondary school that values creativity, collaboration, and professional growth.

Empowering Learning is recruiting on behalf of a high-performing and oversubscribed secondary school in Essex, seeking a dynamic Curriculum Team Leader for Design & Technology to join their thriving department. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious educator to lead across Resistant Materials, Graphics, Food, and Textiles, shaping the curriculum and inspiring high-quality teaching and learning from KS3-KS5.

The school has a strong ethos of excellence and inclusion, underpinned by an ICT-rich learning environment and a commitment to continuous professional development (CPD). Staff are supported to grow as practitioners and leaders, ensuring every student achieves their full potential through engaging, innovative, and rigorous teaching.

• Lead and manage the Design & Technology curriculum across all key stages, ensuring high standards of teaching and pupil progress.

• Support colleagues in developing engaging schemes of work and delivering creative, practical lessons.

• Implement effective behaviour management and targeted interventions to support student success.

• Monitor and evaluate curriculum delivery, assessment, and outcomes.

• Foster innovation, inclusion, and progression opportunities within the D&T department.

• Pay to scale (MPS/UPS + TLR 2b) - Fringe London allowance.

• Excellent CPD and professional development through a forward-thinking training school.

• Supportive and collaborative teaching environment.

• Opportunity to shape curriculum direction and develop leadership skills.

• Modern, fully equipped workshops and specialist learning spaces.

• A strong culture of teamwork, inclusion, and professional growth.

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a relevant Design & Technology degree or equivalent.

• Proven leadership experience or readiness to take the next step in curriculum leadership.

• Strong curriculum knowledge and a track record of driving pupil progress.

• A passion for teaching and learning, inclusion, and design innovation.

• Excellent organisational, interpersonal, and communication skills.

This inclusive and ambitious secondary school provides a rich and challenging education for all learners. The school is deeply committed to curriculum development, creativity, and progression, ensuring students leave equipped with the skills and confidence for future success. Staff benefit from a collaborative working culture, excellent resources, and extensive opportunities for professional and leadership development.

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.

Empowering Learning is committed to diversity, inclusion, and equal opportunities for all applicants.