At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a high-performing Design and Technology department, inspiring students and staff alike.
- Company: Westcliff High School for Boys, an Outstanding Grammar School with a rich tradition.
- Benefits: Permanent full-time position with competitive pay and opportunities for professional growth.
- Other info: Join a thriving community with excellent extracurricular activities and career development.
- Why this job: Shape the future of young minds in a dynamic and innovative educational environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in teaching Design and Technology at GCSE and A Level required.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 52000 £ per year.
The Design and Technology Department at Westcliff High School for Boys (WHSB) has been a high performing Department for many years. It has consistently achieved outstanding results at GCSE and A Level and ranks amongst the best performing departments within the School. The Department has grown considerably in previous years. There are presently six classes taking GCSE Design and Technology in Year 10 and Year 11 and, Sixth Form numbers are regularly in the double figures.
Extra-curricular activities
- In the Lower School we offer Technology Club, CAD Club and the Robotics Society.
- In the Middle School, pupils have the opportunity to be part of the Arkwright Scholarship programme and Engineering Society.
- In the Upper School, students can take part in the Industrial Cadet Gold Award and Gold CREST Awards, which includes annual residential visits to the Department of Engineering at the University of Cambridge.
- The department also benefits from a thriving Food Technology department with opportunities to attend eFood Society or Gastronomy Club.
Curriculum
The Lower School (Year 7 to Year 9) curriculum has been carefully crafted and sequenced to encourage independent learning, develop designing and making skills, alongside improving examination technique. Classes are taught on a carousel basis and transfer to a new project at the end of every term. Pupils study a range of theoretical and practical lessons based on three main areas of focus: Product Design, Engineering and Food Technology. Three lessons are taught over two weeks, within which, one is a double period. We use a range of assessment and investigations to introduce, consolidate and extend pupils’ understanding of the subject. We encourage pupils to develop a more in-depth understanding of the principles they are currently learning, and this gives them a wider breadth of knowledge. The AQA GCSE 9‑1 Curriculum follows on from the work that has been completed in the Lower School, both consolidating parts of it that have previously been covered to GCSE Level but also extending other parts so pupils can access the Level 9 GCSE grade. Sixth Form students also follow the AQA specification for Product Design.
Examination Results
The Design and Technology department has a track record of examination success: at GCSE, 60% of the 2025 cohort achieved grades 8‑9, while 88% achieved grades 7‑9. At A‑Level, students achieved 44% A*‑A and 100% achieved A*‑B. Students leaving the School to study Design and Technology at university often do so at prestigious institutions.
Information about the School
Westcliff High School for Boys (WHSB) is an Outstanding Grammar School. We continue to hold dear our values and traditions whilst fostering academic excellence and a dynamism which allow us to provide a twenty-first century world class education. Our record of success is reflected in our outstanding A Level and GCSE results and we are committed to providing the highest standards in all aspects of our provision for pupils.
Safeguarding
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.
Contact Telephone: 01702 475443 Email: vacancies@whsb.essex.sch.uk
Head of Design & Technology employer: Shorefields
Westcliff High School for Boys is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant work culture that prioritises academic excellence and professional development. As the Head of Design & Technology, you will be part of a high-performing department with a strong track record of success, providing ample opportunities for growth through innovative extracurricular programmes and collaboration with prestigious institutions. Located in a supportive community, WHSB fosters a dynamic environment where educators can thrive and make a meaningful impact on students' futures.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Design & Technology
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those involved in design and technology. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about the role and even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion! When you get that interview, make sure to highlight your enthusiasm for design and technology. Share your ideas on how you can contribute to the department's success and engage students in innovative ways.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready for practical assessments or scenario-based questions during interviews. Think about how you'd handle real classroom situations and demonstrate your problem-solving skills.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining our fantastic team at WHSB. Don’t miss out on this opportunity!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Design & Technology
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Design and Technology shine through. We want to see how much you care about the subject and how you can inspire our students!
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific needs of our department. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our curriculum and extracurricular activities.
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Avoid jargon unless it's relevant to the role, and make sure your key points stand out.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the position. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Shorefields
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and technologies in design and technology. Brush up on the AQA GCSE and A-Level specifications, as well as any innovative teaching methods that could enhance student engagement.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Department, you’ll need to demonstrate your ability to lead and inspire a team. Prepare examples of how you’ve successfully managed projects or led initiatives in previous roles, especially those that resulted in improved student outcomes.
✨Engage with Extra-Curricular Activities
Familiarise yourself with the extra-curricular offerings at WHSB, like the Technology Club and Robotics Society. Be ready to discuss how you can contribute to or expand these activities to enrich students' learning experiences.
✨Emphasise Safeguarding Awareness
Understand the importance of safeguarding in education. Be prepared to discuss your approach to ensuring a safe learning environment and how you would implement safeguarding policies within the Design and Technology department.
