Lead Practitioner of Design & Technology – Secondary School in Oxford (January Start)

A scholarly secondary school in Oxford is seeking an innovative Lead Practitioner of Design & Technology to lead technical curriculum design, workshop safety excellence, and CAD/CAM integration starting in January. Job Overview This role combines expert practical delivery with subject leadership in teaching and learning. The successful candidate will teach Product Design, Resistant Materials, and Engineering across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5, while driving workshop safety standards (DATA/CLEAPSS), digital design methodologies (SolidWorks, 2D Design), and Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) moderation accuracy across the department. Working closely with senior leadership and technical staff, you will mentor teachers, overhaul practical assessment grids, and expand STEM engineering partnerships. This is a full-time, permanent contract. Key Responsibilities Model exemplary practical and theoretical DT lessons across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level) Audit and enforce workshop health and safety standards (DATA/CLEAPSS) and heavy machinery maintenance schedules Lead departmental coaching in digital design tools, 3D printing, laser cutting, and precision manufacturing Oversee internal moderation for Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) coursework portfolios to ensure marking precision Mentor early-career and non-specialist teachers to build confidence in workshop tools and theory delivery Drive extra-curricular engineering competitions, industrial design challenges, and STEM university links Role Overview & Specifications Start Date: January Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract Location: Oxford, Oxfordshire Salary / Pay Rate: Lead Practitioner Scale (LP1–LP5 equivalent) Key Curriculum: AQA / Edexcel Design & Technology Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with a degree in Product Design, Engineering, or Design Technology Valid machine safety certification (DATA/CLEAPSS) and advanced software proficiency Proven track record of strong GCSE and A-Level DT/Engineering outcomes alongside peer mentoring experience Deep knowledge of modern manufacturing processes, materials science, and NEA moderation 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 Lead Practitioner of DT position in Oxford for a January start.