Design Technology Lead

Roles and responsibilities

1. Leadership and Departmental Management

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a clear vision for the Design Technology department that aligns with the overall goals of the school and its curriculum.
• Team Management: Lead, manage, and mentor a team of Design Technology teachers and technical staff. Provide guidance, support, and professional development opportunities for department members.
• Curriculum Development and Implementation: Lead the design, development, and implementation of a robust and engaging curriculum that covers key aspects of design, technology, and engineering. Ensure the curriculum is up-to-date and reflects industry trends and technological advancements.
• Quality Assurance: Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of teaching practices, student outcomes, and department initiatives. Conduct regular reviews to ensure high standards are maintained.
• Budget Management: Oversee the departmental budget, ensuring resources and equipment are well-managed, cost-effective, and available for use by students and staff. Ensure that the necessary tools, materials, and equipment are procured, maintained, and replaced as needed.
• Health and Safety Management: Ensure all safety regulations and procedures related to workshop tools, equipment, and materials are followed. Maintain a safe working environment for both staff and students, ensuring compliance with health and safety guidelines.

2. Curriculum and Teaching Excellence

• Curriculum Design: Develop, review, and adapt the curriculum for all levels, ensuring it is comprehensive, challenging, and accessible to all students. Integrate both theoretical knowledge and practical application in design technology projects.
• Innovative Teaching Practices: Promote and implement innovative and engaging teaching methods, including the integration of digital technologies (e.g., CAD, 3D printing, robotics) and traditional design and manufacturing techniques.
• Monitoring and Assessment: Establish clear, consistent assessment methods and ensure regular and effective feedback to students. Monitor student progress, set targets for improvement, and identify areas for intervention where necessary.
• Student Engagement: Develop strategies to foster student interest and participation in design technology, encouraging students to explore creative solutions to real-world design challenges.
• Extracurricular Activities: Organize and lead extracurricular activities related to design technology, such as clubs, competitions (e.g., robotics, product design contests), or community-based design projects.

3. Staff Development and Support

• Professional Development: Identify the professional development needs of the Design Technology staff and arrange for training or external courses that will help improve their skills and knowledge.
• Mentorship: Act as a mentor for new or less experienced teachers in the department, providing support, advice, and guidance to enhance their teaching practice.
• Performance Management: Conduct performance appraisals and evaluations of teaching staff. Provide constructive feedback and create plans for individual development based on performance.
• Collaboration and Teamwork: Foster a collaborative and supportive working environment

Desired candidate profile

• Strong Subject Knowledge: Expertise in various aspects of design technology, including product design, engineering, systems design, CAD/CAM, and material science.
• Innovative Teaching Techniques: Ability to inspire and engage students through innovative teaching methods, combining theory with hands-on practical learning.
• Leadership and Management: Proven ability to lead a team of teachers and support staff, manage departmental resources effectively, and contribute to the strategic direction of the school’s Design Technology offerings.
• Curriculum Leadership: Strong understanding of curriculum development, adapting the teaching program to meet student needs, and aligning with national or regional educational standards.
• Project Management: Ability to manage large projects, coordinate across different teams, and oversee the delivery of key design technology initiatives and activities (e.g., student projects, competitions, events).
• Technological Proficiency: Expertise in the use of relevant design technology software (e.g., CAD, 3D printing software, and manufacturing systems) and hands-on tools (e.g., lathes, milling machines).
• Health and Safety Knowledge: Understanding of health and safety regulations, especially related to workshop management, tool usage, and the safe design and construction of products.
• Assessment and Evaluation: Ability to assess and evaluate student performance, provide constructive feedback, and use data to improve both student outcomes and department effectiveness.

• Personal Attributes

• Creativity and Innovation: Passion for fostering creativity and innovation in students. Ability to encourage students to think critically and problem-solve while working on design projects.
• Passion for Design and Technology: A genuine enthusiasm for design technology and a commitment to keeping up with technological advancements and industry trends.