Teacher Design Technology

Roles and responsibilities

1. Leadership and Management

• Lead the Department: Provide strategic leadership for the Art and Design Technology department, ensuring it aligns with the school's overall mission, vision, and educational goals.
• Manage Department Staff: Supervise and support a team of Art and Design Technology teachers, offering guidance, conducting performance reviews, and ensuring their professional development.
• Promote Teamwork: Foster a collaborative environment within the department, encouraging the exchange of ideas, teaching strategies, and resources.
• Departmental Planning: Lead the department in setting and achieving its objectives for teaching, learning, and student achievement.

2. Curriculum Development and Implementation

• Develop and Oversee Curriculum: Design, implement, and review the Art and Design Technology curriculum to ensure it is engaging, relevant, and meets national and school standards. This includes both practical and theoretical aspects of Art, Design, and Technology (e.g., design principles, materials science, CAD, etc.).
• Ensure Curriculum Alignment: Ensure the curriculum is appropriately differentiated to meet the needs of students at various levels of ability, including those with special educational needs (SEN).
• Incorporate Innovation: Stay current with trends in technology, design, and art, incorporating these developments into the curriculum to keep the subject matter dynamic and engaging.
• Cross-Department Collaboration: Work closely with other departments, such as Science, Maths, and ICT, to incorporate interdisciplinary approaches that strengthen students’ learning experience.

3. Teaching and Learning

• Model Best Teaching Practices: Lead by example, demonstrating high-quality teaching, both in practical skills and theoretical knowledge. This may include teaching classes or providing exemplar lessons.
• Encourage Creativity: Foster an environment that promotes creativity, critical thinking, and innovation, encouraging students to experiment and express themselves through various mediums.
• Monitor and Improve Teaching Standards: Regularly review teaching and learning strategies within the department, identifying areas for improvement and providing appropriate support and guidance to staff.
• Differentiation: Ensure that teaching strategies accommodate a wide range of learners, including those with special educational needs, high achievers, and students requiring additional support.

Desired candidate profile

• Leadership and Management Skills: Strong leadership qualities to manage and inspire a team of teachers. Ability to provide clear direction, delegate tasks effectively, and foster a positive, collaborative team culture.
• Curriculum and Pedagogical Expertise: Expertise in the design and delivery of Art & Design Technology curricula. Understanding of how to differentiate lessons and support students with varying abilities and needs, including those with special educational needs (SEN).
• Creative and Innovative Thinking: Ability to foster a creative and innovative environment for both staff and students, encouraging the exploration of new technologies and materials.
• Problem-Solving and Decision-Making: Strong problem-solving abilities, particularly in addressing student challenges, managing departmental resources, and making strategic decisions.
• Technical Proficiency: In-depth knowledge of relevant design technologies (e.g., CAD software, 3D printing, digital design tools) and practical skills in various art and design techniques, including traditional and modern approaches.
• Strong Communication Skills: Excellent verbal and written communication skills to engage effectively with students, staff, parents, and external stakeholders.
• Organizational and Administrative Skills: Ability to manage multiple tasks and priorities, including budget management, scheduling, and maintaining departmental records.
• Health and Safety Awareness: Strong understanding of health and safety protocols in the context of design technology workshops and art studios.

4. Personal Attributes

• Passion for Art and Design: A genuine passion for the subjects of Art and Design Technology, with a deep commitment to inspiring students to explore and express their creativity.
• Enthusiastic and Motivated: A proactive and enthusiastic leader who can motivate and inspire both staff and students to achieve excellence.
• Adaptability: Flexibility to adapt to new challenges, technological changes, and evolving educational practices.