Lead Practitioner of Design & Technology – Secondary Academy in Preston (January Start)

A high-achieving secondary academy in Preston, Lancashire, is seeking an innovative Lead Practitioner of Design & Technology to drive technical design precision, workshop safety standards, and NEA coursework moderation starting in January. Job Overview The Lead Practitioner will combine expert practical workshop delivery with strategic responsibility for whole-department pedagogy across Product Design, Resistant Materials, and CAD/CAM systems. Working alongside senior management and the Head of DT, you will coach non-specialists, audit machine safety logs (DATA/CLEAPSS), model advanced 3D CAD parametric modeling techniques, and standardize GCSE and A-Level Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) practical design portfolios. This is a full-time, permanent contract. Key Responsibilities Model exemplary workshop and theoretical delivery across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5 (GCSE & A-Level Product Design) Lead departmental coaching on 3D parametric CAD software (SolidWorks/Fusion 360) and rapid prototyping Enforce statutory workshop health and safety standards (DATA/CLEAPSS) and maintain machinery maintenance logs Oversee NEA coursework portfolio moderation and coordinate external exam board sampling procedures Analyze assessment tracking data to design targeted practical intervention workshops for borderline students Coordinate STEM partnerships, industrial design challenges, and regional engineering competitions Role Overview & Specifications Start Date: January Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract Location: Preston, Lancashire Salary / Pay Rate: Lead Practitioner Scale (LP1–LP5 equivalent) Key Curriculum: AQA / Edexcel Design & Technology Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with an honors degree in Design & Technology, Product Design, or Industrial Engineering Proven history of delivering high GCSE and A-Level Design & Technology outcomes Valid, up-to-date machine safety certification (DATA / CLEAPSS accredited) Advanced proficiency in 2D/3D CAD/CAM software and CNC machinery operation 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 Preston for a January start.