At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and manage the Design Technology department, delivering high-quality Engineering lessons.
- Company: Well-regarded secondary school in East London with a supportive environment.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, leadership opportunities, and a chance to shape future engineers.
- Other info: Join a forward-thinking school committed to excellence and innovation.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' futures while leading a dynamic team.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and strong Engineering teaching experience required.
The predicted salary is between 40000 - 50000 £ per year.
Principal Education is recruiting on behalf of a well-regarded secondary school in East London for an experienced and ambitious Head of Design Technology specialising in Engineering to join the school from September 2026.
This is an excellent opportunity for a strong DT practitioner with proven leadership experience and a specialism in Engineering to lead and develop a successful department within a supportive and forward-thinking school environment. The school is specifically seeking candidates with a strong Engineering background — applications from general DT teachers without Engineering expertise are unlikely to be considered.
The Role
- Lead and manage the Design Technology department across KS3–KS5
- Deliver high-quality Engineering and DT lessons that drive excellent student outcomes
- Develop curriculum planning, assessment and departmental strategy
- Support and mentor staff within the department
- Maintain high standards of teaching, learning and behaviour
- Contribute to whole-school improvement and enrichment opportunities
The Ideal Candidate
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- Strong experience teaching Engineering within Design Technology
- Previous middle leadership or departmental leadership experience
- Proven track record of success
Head of DT in London employer: Principal Education
Contact Detail:
Principal Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of DT in London
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on openings or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your responses to show how your experience in Engineering and leadership aligns with their goals. We want to see that you’re not just a fit for the role, but for the school culture too!
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your achievements! Bring along examples of successful projects or initiatives you've led in your previous roles. This will help us see your impact and how you can contribute to the Design Technology department.
✨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 the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of DT in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience in Engineering and Design Technology. We want to see how your background aligns with the role, so don’t be shy about showcasing your leadership skills and any relevant achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter: Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you’re passionate about Design Technology and how your expertise can benefit our school. We love seeing candidates who can articulate their vision for the department.
Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy: In your application, share your teaching philosophy and how you plan to maintain high standards in the classroom. We’re looking for someone who can inspire both students and staff, so let us know how you’ll achieve that!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way for us to keep track of your application and ensure you don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Principal Education
✨Know Your Engineering Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your engineering knowledge and teaching methods. Be ready to discuss specific projects or lessons you've delivered that highlight your expertise in Engineering within Design Technology.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or department in the past. Think about challenges you've faced and how you motivated your colleagues to achieve great results.
✨Engage with Curriculum Development
Familiarise yourself with current trends in curriculum planning and assessment in Design Technology. Be prepared to share your ideas on how you would enhance the department's strategy and student outcomes.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Improvement
Think about ways you've contributed to whole-school improvement initiatives. Be ready to discuss how you can bring that same energy to the school you're interviewing for, especially in terms of enrichment opportunities for students.