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- Tasks: Lead a dynamic team in Technology, Textiles, and Engineering to inspire innovation and creativity.
- Company: Join Darwen Aldridge Community Academy, a community-focused school with a strong ethos of enterprise.
- Benefits: Enjoy flexible working, generous leave, and exclusive discounts through the Aldridge Benefits Scheme.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and drive excellence in a forward-thinking environment.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership in Technology or Engineering education with a passion for innovation.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community that values inclusion and continuous improvement.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 60000 £ per year.
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: MPS / UPS + TLR2B
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Job Roles: Head Of Department or Curriculum
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Sunday, 19th April 2026
About Us
Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) has a capacity of 1200 in the lower school and also has a developing sixth form provision. The sixth form has enjoyed strong progress in both academic and applied courses and has destinations data that shows NEETs significantly lower than the national picture. All Aldridge schools place enterprise and an entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of their ethos. In addition, DACA has a strong record of promoting cultural capital through its Technology and Creative Arts departments, where competition, visits and visitors are a regular part of student experience and support the development of cultural capital. DACA is very much a community school with a truly comprehensive intake. Sitting above the national average, 33% of its cohort are designated as being in the pupil premium category and DACA works hard to support all students to achieve strong engagement and strong outcomes. With a strong focus on our four key improvement levers around culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction, the DACA team are building towards a consistent provision that supports great progress for all students.
About The Role
Lead Innovation. Shape the Future. Inspire the Next Generation.
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for cutting-edge technology, creative design, and hands-on engineering? We are seeking a bold and dynamic Director of Technology, Textiles and Engineering to drive excellence, spark innovation, and transform learning experiences. This is more than a job; it’s an opportunity to redefine how technology and creativity intersect while leading a thriving department at the forefront of digital innovation, sustainable design, and engineering excellence.
In this role, you will inspire and lead a high-performing team across Technology, Textiles, and Engineering, shape a forward-thinking curriculum that blends digital skills, design thinking, practical innovation, and champion emerging technologies. You will also drive student achievement, foster a culture of creativity and problem-solving, and build strong partnerships with industry to ensure learning remains relevant and future focused.
What We’re Looking For:
- Proven leadership experience in Technology, Engineering, or Design education.
- A passion for innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning.
- Strong strategic vision with the ability to deliver results.
- Confidence in leading change and inspiring both staff and students.
- A commitment to excellence, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
We welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented demographics.
Benefits
Join the Aldridge Education Family! Here’s why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme: Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
- Cycle to Work Scheme: Save money and stay fit with our bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme: Your wellbeing matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities: Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Site Parking: No more hunting for parking, we’ve got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave: Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
- Pension Schemes: Secure your future with access to the Teachers Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme: Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!
When you click apply you will be taken to our careers page where you can complete your application.
Director of Tech, Textiles & Engineering — Lead Innovation employer: Aldridge Education
Contact Detail:
Aldridge Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Tech, Textiles & Engineering — Lead Innovation
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the industry. Attend events, join online forums, or even reach out to alumni from your school. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio that highlights your best work in technology, textiles, and engineering. Whether it’s projects, designs, or innovative ideas, having something tangible to share can really set you apart during interviews.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those interviews! Research the company and think about how your vision aligns with theirs. Be ready to discuss how you can drive innovation and inspire others. Practice common interview questions and have your own questions ready to show your interest.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who are proactive and engaged. So, get your application in and let’s shape the future together!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Tech, Textiles & Engineering — Lead Innovation
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let your enthusiasm for technology, textiles, and engineering shine through in your application. We want to see how your passion aligns with our mission to inspire the next generation!
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience and skills that match the job description. We love seeing how your background can contribute to our innovative environment.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Use your cover letter to tell us your story! Share your vision for leading a high-performing team and how you plan to drive excellence and creativity in our curriculum.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our careers page! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly and shows you’re serious about joining our community.
How to prepare for a job interview at Aldridge Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in textiles and engineering. Brush up on innovative teaching methods and how they can be applied in a secondary education setting. This will show your passion and expertise during the interview.
✨Showcase Your Vision
Prepare to articulate your strategic vision for the department. Think about how you would blend technology with creativity and hands-on learning. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you’ve led change or innovation in previous roles.
✨Engage with the Community
DACA values community engagement, so come prepared with ideas on how to build partnerships with local industries. Discuss how these collaborations can enhance student learning and keep the curriculum relevant. This shows you understand the school's ethos.
✨Emphasise Inclusion and Improvement
Be ready to talk about your commitment to excellence and inclusion. Share examples of how you’ve supported diverse learners and fostered a culture of continuous improvement in your teams. This aligns perfectly with DACA’s mission and values.