An innovative secondary academy in Southampton, Hampshire, is seeking an ambitious Head of Design & Technology to lead its design, engineering, and workshop provision on a full-time, permanent basis starting in January.

Job Overview

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.

Key Responsibilities

• 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

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: January

• Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract

• Location: Southampton, Hampshire

• Salary / Pay Rate: TLR1 or Leadership Scale equivalent (L5–L9)

• Key Curriculum: AQA / Edexcel Design & Technology

Candidate Requirements

• 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)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this full-time, permanent Head of DT position in Southampton for a January start.