Head of Food Technology at Maiden Erlegh School In Reading

Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is seeking a committed and knowledgeable Head of Food to lead the strategic development of Food Technology within the school. This is a key leadership role focused on delivering an ambitious, inclusive and well-sequenced curriculum that enables all students to achieve strong outcomes and develop secure subject knowledge. The role combines high-quality classroom practice with subject leadership. The postholder will lead curriculum design and implementation, ensure high standards of teaching and assessment, and drive improvement through effective monitoring, evaluation and intervention.

There is a strong emphasis on supporting all learners, including those who are not yet fluent readers, and ensuring equity of access and achievement across all student groups. You will lead, develop and line manage the Food Technology team, building a culture of high expectations, collaboration and continuous improvement. You will also contribute to wider school and Trust priorities, working closely with senior leaders and colleagues across Maiden Erlegh Trust to share best practice and strengthen curriculum provision.

• Lead the development and implementation of an ambitious and inclusive Food Technology curriculum
• Ensure consistently high-quality teaching, learning and assessment across the department
• Monitor student progress and implement timely, effective interventions to secure strong outcomes
• Line manage, coach and develop colleagues within the subject team
• Oversee curriculum planning, schemes of work and enrichment opportunities
• Ensure robust assessment systems, including standardisation and accurate reporting
• Promote high standards of behaviour, engagement and student wellbeing
• Support disadvantaged students, those with SEND and other priority groups to achieve their potential
• Contribute to whole school and Trust curriculum development and improvement priorities
• Manage the departmental budget effectively and ensure compliance with health and safety requirements

• Be a qualified teacher with strong subject knowledge in Food Technology
• Have experience of curriculum leadership or the capacity to step into a leadership role
• Demonstrate a track record of high-quality teaching and improving student outcomes
• Be skilled in using assessment and data to inform planning and intervention
• Have strong leadership, organisational and communication skills
• Be committed to inclusion, high expectations and supporting all students to succeed
• Be able to coach and develop colleagues effectively
• Contribute positively to the wider life of the school and Trust

About Maiden Erlegh School in Reading (MER): Maiden Erlegh School in Reading is an ambitious, over-subscribed 11-16 secondary school in an urban context. The school is committed to staff and student wellbeing as well as delivering high-quality education.

About Maiden Erlegh Trust: Maiden Erlegh Trust is a growing community of schools across Berkshire and Oxfordshire, working together to deliver the best possible education for every child and young person. With around 800 staff and 5,000 students across eleven schools, including primary, secondary, special and alternative provision, we are proud of the diversity that shapes our expertise.

• Pension Scheme – Generous employer contributions through the Teachers' Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme
• Annual Leave – Generous entitlement, increasing with length of service
• ME Day – One additional day's leave each year for a significant personal event
• Professional Development – Extensive CPD through the Maiden Erlegh Institute, annual Trust Conference and apprenticeship opportunities
• Hybrid Working – Flexible working arrangements for eligible roles
• Perkbox – Discounts, wellbeing resources and monthly perk points
• Wellbeing and Health – Free flu vaccinations and eye tests (where eligible)
• Employee Assistance Programme – 24/7 support and discount schemes
• Mental Health First Aid Support
• Recognition and Community – Celebrating achievements and milestones across #TeamMET
• Employee Referral Scheme

If you believe this is an environment where you can thrive, develop and make a meaningful contribution, please contact recruitment@maidenerleghtrust.org for an informal discussion. Applicants are encouraged to apply early, as we reserve the right to close the advert and interview at any time. Maiden Erlegh Trust is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful candidate will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.