Second in Technology (Food and Nutrition) (Thetford)

Salary: Qualified Teachers Pay Scales: Main Pay Scale (MPS) to Upper Pay Scale (UPS) and TLR2 of £5,000 per annum

Start Date: April 2026

About the Role

Thetford Academy is seeking an inspiring, innovative and dedicated Second in Technology (Food and Nutrition) to join our team; a leader who shares our belief that all pupils have the right to succeed and have access to the very best education. This key role will give you the opportunity to work with senior leaders and the subject team on curriculum development and play an important part in creating a department that aims to set the standard nationally. You will have a willingness to work with the wider Inspiration Trust team to deliver an exceptional knowledge rich curriculum.

What You’ll Be Doing

• To assist the Head of Department with the development of new ways of thinking about the curriculum and teaching and learning to develop student expertise in the subject.
• To ensure that our high standards are applied consistently across the Academy Team in terms of the smooth day-to-day running of the Academy.
• Maintain professional conduct and actively engage in performance management and professional development activities.
• Participate in meetings, quality assurance processes, and school events outside normal hours.
• Serve as a form tutor, delivering pastoral programmes and supervising pupils as required.
• Teach the curriculum, prepare pupils for examinations, and provide additional support such as interventions and revision lessons.
• Plan collaboratively, set homework, adapt teaching for SEND/EAL students, and maintain high standards of pupil work.
• Assess pupil progress, evaluate teaching approaches, and provide reports and references to support pupil development.

About You

You will be someone with excellent communication and interpersonal skills to motivate staff and students. You will also be collaborative, empathetic, and have a deep passion for the subject matter.

Essential Requirements

• An appropriate degree and other qualifications required for the award of QTS.
• Qualified Teacher Status (trainees should be on track to achieve QTS before taking up the post).
• Successful subject experience as a teacher and manager in education in a secondary school.
• Successful involvement in performance management, self‑evaluation process and data analysis as an aid in personal and team improvement, development and change.
• Proven practice in leading, motivating and supporting staff to achieve high standards.
• Knowledge of the statutory requirements concerning Equal Opportunities, Health & Safety, SEND and Child Protection.
• Ability to communicate effectively and build positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues, and the wider community.

Desirable Requirements

• Evidence of effective design and implementation of initiatives for raising student attainment and improving the quality of teaching and learning strategies.
• Successful experience in leading and managing pedagogic changes at department level.

Benefits

• Generous annual leave, and access to the Teachers' Pension Schemes (TPS) with excellent employer contributions.
• Health Plan and Employee Assistance Programme, including 24/7 virtual GP access, mental health support and claim‑back options for healthcare costs.
• Cycle‑to‑work scheme, retail and theatre discounts (including discounted shopping vouchers, dentist and gym memberships), and salary sacrifice options (including home technology).
• Free parking at most sites.
• Personalised CPD and development programmes.
• A structured and specific induction programme.

About Us

Thetford Academy is a remarkable place to work and sits at the academic and cultural heart of its community. Our pupils follow a curriculum designed to prepare them for future challenges while fostering a deep appreciation and understanding of the world. They are supported in developing strong values and habits that empower them to make meaningful contributions to their community and beyond. Joining Thetford Academy means becoming part of a committed, supportive, and ambitious team. Staff benefit from excellent professional development opportunities, collaborative networks, and the chance to make a real difference in the lives of young people. If you are passionate about education and inspiring students to achieve their full potential, this is the place to grow your career.

We are part of the Inspiration Trust, twice ranked as the country’s top family of comprehensive schools for pupil progress, and strongly believe in the importance of giving the widest educational opportunities to all young people, regardless of their background. The Inspiration Trust is a Multi Academy Trust, committed to delivering the very best educational experience for the young people of Norfolk and Suffolk, across 17 schools. In its 2025 inspection, Ofsted confirmed that The Thetford Academy has continued to provide a high-quality education, with excellent behaviour, a well‑sequenced curriculum and impressive personal development opportunities. Pupils are proud to attend the school, feel safe, and benefit from committed staff and strong leadership.

Contact

If you would like to know more about this exciting opportunity, then please contact Ilona Haye, PA to Principal.

Closing date for applications: 9am on Tuesday 3rd March 2026

Interview date: Week commencing 9th March 2026

Safeguarding and Equal Opportunities

Inspiration Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All staff appointments are subject to satisfactory references and enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service checks. We are an equal opportunities employer.