Subject Leader for Design Technology & Food

Contract: Permanent

Hours: Full time

Salary: MPS/UPS plus TLR 2b (£6,056)

Site: Thomas Deacon Academy

Closing date:  9am on Friday 22^nd May

Start date:  September 2026

Please note the trust may decide to withdraw the advert before the closing date or interview suitable candidates prior to the advert closing.  

Can you lead Design Technology and Food with confidence?

Will you lead your team with courtesy, compassion and commitment?

If so, Thomas Deacon Academy is looking for you!

Your role:

As Subject Leader, you will drive high-quality teaching and learning across Design Technology and Food, shaping an ambitious, well-sequenced curriculum from Key Stage 3 to GCSE level. This is a leadership role rooted in practical learning where students design, make and cook, and you will play a key part in raising standards and inspiring achievement. A core part of this role is a clear commitment to teaching both Design Technology and Food, ensuring a broad, engaging curriculum for all learners.

You will bring strong subject knowledge in Design Technology and a commitment to inclusive, high-quality teaching. Confident in your use of digital tools, you will have experience of CAD/CAM, systems and control, and product design, using a range of strategies and technologies to engage learners effectively.

In the classroom and as a leader, you will demonstrate confidence in your practice, the courage to try new approaches and the curiosity to stay at the forefront of curriculum and pedagogy. You will support and develop colleagues, model high expectations and foster a culture built on courtesy, commitment and compassion.

Most importantly, you will share our belief that, with the right support, challenge and care, every student can thrive.

About us:

This is a place where creativity matters. You will work in an inspiring Norman Foster–designed building, within a large, forward-looking academy and department that values both academic success and character development. As part of the Thomas Deacon Education Trust, you will benefit from high-quality professional development, clear progression opportunities and the chance to collaborate with like‑minded colleagues across the Trust. You will be trusted to be creative, supported to grow in confidence and encouraged to shape your career, whether you are early in your journey or looking for your next challenge.

Design and Technology and Food are part of a large DAPA department that also includes, Art, Drama, Dance, Music and Food.  Across the department, we have a number of dedicated classrooms well equipped for a variety of specialist techniques and processes. Staff work collaboratively and supportively at all key stages. They can develop curriculum projects aligned with their strengths while building new skills, ensuring provision remains relevant to Creative, Technical and Manufacturing industries and engaging for pupils.

If you are ready to commit your skills, curiosity and creativity to a school that combines ambition with compassion, Thomas Deacon Academy could be the perfect place to design the next stage of your career.

Why work for us?:

Join Thomas Deacon Education Trust and be part of a dedicated team committed to "working together to transform lives through education.”  To learn more about the benefits we have on offer, check out our video here: Employee Benefits

At TDET, 95% of our new employees highly rate our induction programme. Benefit from the unwavering support of our dedicated staff, ensuring you feel welcomed and well-prepared from day one.  According to our 2025 staff survey, 91% of staff are proud to work for TDET!

Ready to transform lives through education?  Apply now and make a difference!

TDET - Working together to transform lives through education

Thomas Deacon Education Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The Academy will require the successful candidate to provide satisfactory references and undertake an Enhanced Check with the Disclosure and Barring Service.

At Thomas Deacon Education Trust, we are committed to equality of opportunity for all. We welcome applications from everyone, regardless of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage and civil partnership, pregnancy and maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, or sexual orientation. Join us in fostering an inclusive and supportive environment where all contributions are valued.

If you have any questions regarding this post, please contact the HR Team on e-mail at  hrteam@tdet.education