At a Glance
- Tasks: Support food science classes by preparing materials and assisting teachers in practical sessions.
- Company: Join the vibrant team at Nova Hreod Academy, part of United Learning.
- Benefits: Enjoy a local government pension, discounts, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Fixed-term role with potential for extension and a focus on staff wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while gaining valuable experience.
- Qualifications: Organisational skills and a proactive attitude are essential.
The predicted salary is between 31950 - 39050 £ per year.
We are excited to be able to offer a Food Technician to join our busy team in Nova Hreod Academy.
Contract Type: Fixed Term Contract for 6 months
Location: Nova Hreod Academy
Start Date: September 2026
Working Hours: 29 hours a week Monday - Friday
About the Role: Nova Hreod Academy is seeking a highly organised and proactive Food Science Technician to join our team. This is a fixed-term role from 1st September 2026 until 28th February 2026; the purpose of this being a fixed-term role is to cover a leave of absence. There may be a need to extend this role. You will work closely with colleagues across the Academy, supporting food science.
Key Responsibilities:
- Prepare, set up, and tidy away equipment and materials ready for use in the appropriate classrooms, in accordance with academy risk assessments, and manufacturer’s instructions and the requirements of teaching staff, including preparing materials, delivering equipment to rooms, and photocopying.
- Assist teaching staff with the general running of practical work sessions in a supporting capacity only.
- Clean and make spills safe, breakages, and related incidents that require careful handling, and ensure all classrooms are clear at the end of the school day and are prepared for lesson 1 the next day's lesson.
- Support the Food Science Teacher with Food Science work including but not limited to, food preparations (weighing and measuring), preparing the classroom, and tidying away.
- Provide general support to the Food Science teacher.
- Order supplies as required, under the direction of the Food Science Head of Department and Teachers.
We offer:
- A strong, supportive team culture where staff wellbeing is prioritised.
- The opportunity to deliver memorable educational experiences beyond the classroom.
- Excellent professional development and career progression opportunities.
- A visible impact on students’ lives, particularly in widening access to enrichment opportunities.
- A diverse and vibrant school community.
- Clear systems, leadership support and a forward-thinking working environment.
Benefits:
- Local Government Pension Scheme (LGPS).
- Access to United Learning staff benefits, including discounts and wellbeing support.
- Employee Assistance Programme.
- Ongoing professional development and training.
- Term-time working, supporting a positive work-life balance.
Additional Information: Nova Hreod Academy is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people; therefore, there is an expectation that all staff and volunteers share this commitment. The successful candidate will require an enhanced DBS disclosure. Please note we reserve the right to close the vacancy early in light of a large response. Due to the high volume of applications received, the School is unable to provide individual feedback on why an application is unsuccessful. If you have not been contacted within 2 weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
United Learning Nova Hreod Academy is part of United Learning, a large and growing group of schools aiming to offer a life-changing education to children and young people across England. Our schools work as a team and achieve more by sharing than any single school could. Our subject specialists, our group-wide intranet, our own curriculum, and our online learning portal all help us share knowledge and resources, helping to simplify work processes and manage workloads for an improved work-life balance. As a Group, we can reward our staff better: with good career opportunities, better pay, benefits, and ultimately, the satisfaction of helping children to succeed. We invest in our staff's well-being. Our academies each have at least eight INSET days per year (with three of those solely dedicated to planning), and an ongoing group-wide wellbeing programme. It's an ethos we call ‘the best in everyone’.
Food Technician (1 year Fixed Term Contract) in Swindon employer: Nova Hreod Academy
At Nova Hreod Academy, we pride ourselves on fostering a strong, supportive team culture that prioritises staff wellbeing and professional growth. As a Food Technician, you will have the unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while enjoying a positive work-life balance through term-time working and access to ongoing professional development. Join our diverse and vibrant community where your contributions are valued and celebrated.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Food Technician (1 year Fixed Term Contract) in Swindon
✨Join Food Science Communities
Get involved in food science forums and communities, both online and offline. Platforms like LinkedIn Groups or Reddit can be goldmines for job leads and valuable insights. Plus, you’ll connect with other food enthusiasts who might even point you towards openings at companies like Nova Hreod Academy.
✨Attend Industry Conferences and Workshops
Check out exhibitions and workshops in the food science sector. Events like the International Congress on Food Technology are not just knowledge hubs, but also great networking opportunities. You never know who you might bump into – perhaps a hiring manager from Nova Hreod Academy!
✨Show Off Your Passion for Food Tech
Start a blog or social media channel showcasing innovative food science projects or trends. This not only showcases your expertise but also raises your visibility in the field. When you apply for a role at companies like Nova Hreod Academy, they’ll see you’re proactive and truly passionate about food technology.
✨Leverage University Career Services
If you're fresh out of uni, make use of your career services! They often have exclusive job boards and connections with companies looking for graduates. Don't forget to mention your interest in roles like those at Nova Hreod Academy, and they might have insider tips or referrals just for you!
We think you need these skills to ace Food Technician (1 year Fixed Term Contract) in Swindon
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Relevant Projects:When applying for a role in food science and technology at Nova Hreod Academy, make sure to highlight any relevant projects or research you've worked on. Whether it’s a dissertation, a lab experiment, or a product development idea, detail these experiences to demonstrate your hands-on skills in the field—employers love to see practical applications of your knowledge!
Highlight Technical Skills:In the food science and technology industry, technical skills are key. Be sure to list any specific skills you have related to food safety, quality control, or food processing technologies on your CV. Also, mention any software or analytical tools you’re proficient in, as this shows you're ready to hit the ground running at Nova Hreod Academy.
Tailor Your Cover Letter:As this is a full-time position, your cover letter should convey not just why you want the job, but also how you fit into the company's vision. Talk about your passion for food science and how your background uniquely positions you to contribute to Nova Hreod Academy. Make it personal and compelling!
Include Certifications:If you have any certifications related to food science, safety, or technology, be sure to mention them. These can really set you apart from other candidates! List them prominently on your CV and discuss how they relate to the role at Nova Hreod Academy. It shows you're committed to your professional development.
How to prepare for a job interview at Nova Hreod Academy
✨Know Your Lab Tech!
Given that you’re diving into food science and technology, brush up on the specific technologies and lab equipment mentioned in the job description. Familiarising yourself with tools like gas chromatography or texture analyzers will show that you’re serious about the technical side of things.
✨Show Off Your Project Experience
Prepare to discuss any relevant projects or research you've undertaken in food science. Whether it’s developing a new recipe, conducting taste tests, or analysing nutritional content, having tangible examples can really show off your expertise and passion for the field.
✨Emphasise Your Soft Skills
Don't underestimate the importance of teamwork and communication in food science roles. Be ready to highlight instances where you’ve effectively collaborated with others or communicated complex scientific ideas clearly. This can make a huge difference in landing that full-time gig!
✨Stay Up-to-Date with Industry Trends
Make sure you’re clued up about the latest trends in food science and technology — think sustainability, food safety, and innovative processing techniques. Discussing these topics during your interview can demonstrate your enthusiasm for the field and how you can contribute to Nova Hreod Academy’s mission.