Food Technology Teacher in Leeds

Do you want to work in a high‑achieving, secondary school renowned for its exceptional student behaviour and community spirit? Do you possess the practical expertise to guide pupils safely through intricate, fast‑paced culinary techniques? Are you eager to teach well‑motivated, hardworking pupils who are genuinely enthusiastic about Design and Technology?

About the Role

This is an exceptional opportunity for a passionate Food Technology specialist to take on a full‑time, permanent role starting in September 2026. The successful candidate will deliver high‑quality, engaging lessons across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 (including GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition). The role involves taking ownership of a vibrant curriculum that balances practical kitchen mastery with complex scientific theory. Supported by a dedicated Design & Technology technician and standard‑setting STEM resources, the educator will have the freedom to innovate, design contemporary schemes of work, and nurture a culture of culinary excellence and impeccable kitchen hygiene.

About the School

Situated in Leeds, this outstanding school is celebrated for its high academic standards and student‑centered ethos. The school blends rich traditions with modern facilities, fostering a warm, inclusive, and well‑behaved learning environment where both staff and students thrive. Dedicated to holistic development, the school provides an inspiring backdrop for professionals who value community, mutual respect, and academic excellence.

Key Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS): Holds QTS, QTLS, or an equivalent recognised UK teaching qualification.
• Enhanced DBS: A valid Enhanced DBS clearance registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to apply for one).
• Subject Specialism: A degree or higher diploma in Food Technology, Home Economics, Consumer Science, or a related field.
• Eligibility to Work: Valid legal entitlement to work full‑time in the UK.

Required Skills

• Culinary Expertise: Outstanding practical cooking skills and deep knowledge of global cuisines, preparation techniques, and presentation.
• Classroom Management: Proven ability to manage a busy, sharp‑object, and high‑heat environment safely and calmly.
• Lesson Designing: Skill in creating structured, innovative lesson plans that balance technical kitchen work with academic theory.
• Communication: Exceptional verbal and written communication skills to articulate technical tasks clearly to young learners.
• Time Management: Excellent organisational ability to oversee setup, cooking, tasting, and full kitchen cleanup within standard lesson blocks.
• Data Literacy: Competence in tracking student data and utilising assessment metrics to drive academic intervention.

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver the Curriculum: Plan, prepare, and execute high‑quality Food Technology and Nutrition lessons to pupils across KS3 and KS4.
• Practical Assessment: Monitor, evaluate, and record student progress in both practical culinary sessions and theoretical exams.
• Health and Safety Oversight: Maintain strict health, safety, and hygiene standards within the food rooms, ensuring compliance with school and national regulations.
• Resource Management: Manage ingredients, kitchen workstations, and specialised machinery, coordinating closely with the department technician.
• Differentiated Learning: Adapt teaching materials to support and challenge pupils of all abilities, including those with SEND and high‑attaining students.
• Behaviour Management: Maintain a productive, focused, and safe classroom climate conducive to practical learning.
• Form Tutor Duties: Act as a pastoral form tutor, supporting the emotional and academic wellbeing of a dedicated student cohort.
• Parental Engagement: Provide constructive, regular feedback to parents and guardians via parents' evenings and written reports.
• Extracurricular Enrichment: Organise extracurricular cooking clubs, competitions, or STEM events to boost profile engagement in the subject.
• Collaborative Planning: Actively participate in departmental meetings, moderation sessions, and whole‑school professional development days.

What We Offer

• A supportive, collaborative working environment.
• Opportunities for career progression and ongoing professional development.
• The chance to make a significant impact on the lives of students.
• Competitive salary and benefits package.
• A Refer a Friend scheme where you could earn a £300 Love2shop voucher (subject to terms and conditions).