Design & Technology Technician/Teaching Assistant
Job Ref No. ECC7032-176S Position Type: Teaching/Child Support Pay Range: approx £16,731
Position Start Date: 01/12/2026 Contract Type: Full-time/Part-time Contract Term: Permanent
Application Close: 03/11/2026 Midnight Date of Interviews: week commencing 9 November 2026
Treetops Learning Community
Centre of Excellence
Buxton Road, Grays, Essex, RM16 2WU
Tel.: 01375 372723
Email: admin@treetops.thurrock.sch.uk
Job Title: Design Technology Technician/Teaching Assistant - Resistant Materials & Textiles
Pay Scale: Band A point 4 (approx. £16,731actual)
Hours: 25 hrs per week - 8.50am - 3pm daily
45.8 wks per year (1 extra paid week after 5 years of service)
Required -December2026
The Trust: In March 2025 Treetops School was judged by Ofsted to have maintained the standards identified at the previous inspection. The previous inspection was in February 2020, at which time Treetops was judged as Outstanding. Treetops Free School, which officially opened in September 2022, was judged Good in its first Ofsted inspection in March 2024.
Students throughout Treetops Learning Community have complex needs varying from moderate to severe learning difficulties, which may include speech and communication difficulties, autism and global developmental delay.
The Role
We are seeking to appoint a Design Technology Technician to provide practical, technical and administrative support in our DT Department. The successful candidate will assist teaching staff in delivering engaging, safe and effective lessons by supporting students' learning and maintaining high standards of safety and organisation.
Previous experience of working with children with special educational needs whilst not essential, is preferable.
Key Responsibilities
Preparation and Maintenance
- Prepare and organise tools, materials and equipment for practical sessions, including wood, metal, plastics, fabrics and threads.
- Set up and check specialist machinery such as saws, drills, lathes, sewing machines, heat presses and laser cutters.
- Carry out routine servicing and minor repairs to tools and equipment to keep them safe and in good working order.
- Keep an eye on stock levels, order consumables as agreed with the Faculty Lead and ensure resources are stored correctly.
- Maintain a clean, safe and well‑organised workshop and storage area.
Health and Safety
- Inspect tools and equipment regularly and report or address any faults.
- Follow all COSHH regulations for the handling and storage of chemicals.
- Make sure safety signage and data sheets are in place and up to date.
- Work within the risk assessments prepared by the Faculty Lead.
- Support staff and pupils in the safe use of machinery and equipment.
- Keep accurate records of safety checks and maintenance.
- Check that students are wearing the correct PPE such as goggles, aprons and masks.
- Respond promptly to hazards or incidents following teacher direction.
Support for Teaching and Learning
- Prepare demonstration pieces, jigs and displays to support lessons.
- Supervise and assist students undertaking practical work, especially on equipment that requires close monitoring.
- Reinforce literacy, numeracy and technical understanding as needed within the DT curriculum.
- Encourage students to plan and organise their project work effectively.
- Assist the teacher with informal assessment and feedback, including EFL where relevant.
Administration
- Keep logs of safety checks and maintenance tasks and help with departmental administration where needed.
Classroom Support
- Work alongside the teacher to help students stay focused and engaged during lessons.
- Supervise small groups or individuals during practical activities.
- Reinforce correct techniques and safe working practices at all times.
Practical Assistance
- Support students in operating machinery and using tools safely.
- Offer one-to-one guidance in measuring, cutting, assembling, sewing and finishing tasks.
- Help set up and clear away tools, materials and work areas before and after lessons.
Health and Safety
- Check that students are wearing the correct PPE such as goggles, aprons and masks.
- Respond promptly to hazards or incidents following teacher direction.
Other Contributions
- Create and update displays of students' work around classrooms and corridors.
- Accompany groups on visits or trips linked to Design & Technology.
The governing body is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. All posts are subject to an enhanced DBS check, a medical check and satisfactory references.
All appointments are subject to safer recruitment requirements to ensure the safeguarding of children and young people. All positions will involve appropriate checks and clearances.
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Design & Technology Technician/Teaching Assistant in Grays employer: Shorefields
Shorefields in Chelmsford is an exceptional employer dedicated to fostering a supportive and inclusive environment for both staff and students. With a focus on professional development, we offer numerous growth opportunities and a collaborative work culture that values innovation and compassion in caring for children with complex needs. Our new purpose-built school provides a unique setting where you can make a meaningful impact in the lives of young people while enjoying the benefits of working in a vibrant community.
