This role supports the safe, efficient and effective delivery of practical lessons across food technology, art and design. You will prepare materials and equipment, maintain resources and ensure that teaching environments are safe, organised and ready for learning.

Working closely with teaching colleagues, you will contribute to high-quality practical experiences for students by enabling lessons to run smoothly and safely. Your work will directly support curriculum delivery and ensure that students can access practical activities confidently and safely.

Key responsibilities

• Prepare, assemble and maintain materials and equipment for practical lessons across food, art and design
• Support the safe delivery of practical activities, including assisting with demonstrations
• Provide technical guidance to staff and students on the correct and safe use of equipment and materials
• Maintain and organise departmental resources to ensure availability, safety and fitness for purpose
• Ensure all activities comply with Health and Safety requirements, including COSHH regulations
• Carry out risk assessments and support the safe handling, storage and disposal of materials
• Monitor, clean and undertake minor repairs of equipment to maintain operational standards
• Support inclusive access to practical activities by ensuring resources are prepared for all students
• Contribute to departmental organisation, including displays of student work and stock management
• Work collaboratively with colleagues to maintain consistent standards and effective practice

The ideal candidate

• Holds an NVQ Level 2 (or equivalent) in a relevant subject area such as science, technology or art
• Has knowledge of Health and Safety requirements, including COSHH regulations
• Can safely handle, store and dispose of materials, including hazardous substances
• Communicates effectively with colleagues and students
• Organises workload efficiently and manages competing priorities
• Demonstrates initiative, reliability and a strong sense of responsibility
• Works effectively both independently and as part of a team
• Maintains confidentiality and professional standards at all times
• Shows flexibility and a willingness to develop skills and knowledge

About Maiden Erlegh Trust
Maiden Erlegh Trust is a collaborative and inclusive Trust with a strong commitment to high-quality education and continuous improvement. We work across a family of schools to support colleagues, share expertise and deliver the best possible outcomes for children and young people.

Our values of Aim High, Be Inclusive and Work Together underpin everything we do. We are committed to professional development at all stages of a colleague’s career and provide opportunities to learn, collaborate and grow across our Trust.

All statements in this advert are drawn directly from the authorised Job Description.

About Maiden Erlegh Trust

Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools, including primary, secondary, special and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise.

We Aim High, Be Inclusive and Work Together. These values drive our focus on high-quality education for all through collaboration, inclusion and continuous improvement.

Through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, colleagues access high-quality professional learning at every stage of their career, supported by mentoring, leadership opportunities and our annual MET Staff Conference, a day that brings colleagues together to share best practice and learn from one another.

Joining our Trust means being part of a community that invests in people and values expertise, playing a direct role in shaping the lives and outcomes of young people.

Further information about working with us, and insight from colleagues across the Trust, can be found here on our website.

Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge (MECE)

Maiden Erlegh Chiltern Edge is committed to ensuring students achieve their full potential and flourish in a school where expectations of both staff and students are high. We offer a rich and varied curriculum alongside an extensive range of extra-curricular activities.

The school benefits from a smaller community feel, a semi-rural location in Sonning Common and strong professional development opportunities. Staff wellbeing is prioritised, supported by an active Wellbeing Group dedicated to supporting colleagues.

Benefits of Working with Maiden Erlegh Trust

Staff wellbeing and professional development are central to how we work. Colleagues benefit from a wide range of opportunities and schemes, including:

Pension Scheme – Generous employer contributions through the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme

Annual Leave – Generous entitlement, increasing with length of service

ME Day – One additional day’s leave each year for a significant personal event

Professional Development – Extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities

Hybrid Working – Flexible working arrangements for eligible roles

Perkbox – Discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points

Wellbeing and Health – Free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)

Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes

Mental Health First Aid Support

Recognition and Community – Celebrating achievements and milestones across #TeamMET

Employee Referral Scheme

Working for our Trust means contributing to something larger by supporting the education and life chances of children and young people every day.

Additional Information

If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion.

If you are organised, compassionate and committed to improving outcomes for young people through strong attendance practice, we welcome your application.

Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time.

Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.