At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Design and Technology department, inspiring students and delivering engaging lessons.
- Company: Cheshire’s leading independent school for girls with an excellent reputation.
- Benefits: Generous pension contributions, discounted fees, subsidised meals, and a supportive community.
- Other info: Join a vibrant community with small class sizes and regular social events.
- Why this job: Shape the future of design and technology education and inspire young minds.
- Qualifications: Passion for design and technology with leadership experience in an educational setting.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 € per year.
The Queen’s School is Cheshire’s leading independent school for girls aged 3 to 18. The school has recently achieved the highest inspection rating of excellent in all areas and consistently produces outstanding GCSE and A Level results. We are seeking a Head of Design and Technology – either full‑time or part‑time at 0.8 FTE – to lead our modernised department in the Senior School. The department specialises in wood and plastic design and technology and offers a range of facilities, including scroll saws, band saws, sanding machines, a laser cutter, 3D printers, vinyl cutter and a variety of manual and electric tools.
Responsibilities
- Provide visionary leadership for the Design and Technology department, shaping its strategic direction and ensuring high standards of curriculum delivery, resource provision and health and safety.
- Inspire and motivate pupils to realise their full potential and deliver engaging, creative lessons across Years 7‑13, with a strong emphasis on GCSE and A Level preparation.
- Collaborate with colleagues across the Senior School to promote the school’s ethos and integrate design and technology into the broader curriculum.
- Maintain excellent interpersonal and communication skills, building positive relationships with students, staff and parents.
Qualifications
- Demonstrated passion for design and technology and proven experience in leading a department or team.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills with the ability to inspire and motivate a diverse range of pupils.
- Evidence of strategic and operational leadership in a teaching environment, including curriculum planning and resource management.
- Commitment to health and safety and best practice in the use of hand and electrical tools.
Benefits
- A strong sense of community and supportive colleagues.
- Employer pension contribution of 15 % of pensionable salary through the Legal and General scheme.
- Death in Service benefit.
- Discounted school fees.
- Subsidised meals and refreshments.
- Access to an Employee Assistance Programme.
- Access to 24/7 online GP and other health and well‑being experts.
- On‑site parking where required.
- Regular social events.
- Small teaching classes.
EEO Statement
The Queen’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. The post is also subject to a negative response to an enquiry as to a prohibition order that has been made by the Secretary of State. We are an equal opportunities employer and welcome applications from all suitably qualified persons.
Head of Design and Technology employer: Independent Schools Association (ISA)
The Queen’s School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. With a strong community spirit, generous benefits including a 15% pension contribution, discounted school fees, and access to health and well-being resources, employees are empowered to inspire and motivate students in a state-of-the-art environment. Located in Cheshire, this leading independent school for girls fosters collaboration and creativity, making it an ideal place for passionate educators to thrive.
Contact Detail:
Independent Schools Association (ISA) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design and Technology
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in design and technology. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get the chance to meet with potential employers, share your vision for the Design and Technology department. Talk about innovative ideas you have and how you can inspire students to excel.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and recent achievements. Tailor your responses to show how your leadership style aligns with their values and how you can contribute to their success.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Design and Technology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for design and technology shine through in your application. We want to see how your passion can inspire our students and elevate the department!
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights relevant experience in leading a team or department. We’re looking for someone who can shape our strategic direction, so showcase your leadership skills!
Engage with the Job Description:Read the job description carefully and address each point in your cover letter. We want to know how you can deliver engaging lessons and maintain high standards in curriculum delivery.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get the ball rolling on your journey with us.
How to prepare for a job interview at Independent Schools Association (ISA)
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in design and technology. Familiarise yourself with the tools mentioned in the job description, like laser cutters and 3D printers, so you can discuss how you would integrate them into your teaching.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Think about specific strategies you’ve implemented that improved curriculum delivery or student engagement, as this will demonstrate your capability to provide visionary leadership.
✨Engage with the School's Ethos
Research The Queen’s School and understand its ethos and values. Be ready to discuss how you would promote these within the Design and Technology department and collaborate with other subjects to create an integrated learning experience.
✨Communicate Effectively
Practice your communication skills before the interview. You’ll need to show that you can build positive relationships with students, staff, and parents. Consider role-playing common interview questions with a friend to refine your responses and ensure you come across as approachable and inspiring.
