Design and Technology Teacher

Polaris Community; Horsham; On-site; GBP 32,000 - 38,000; Full time

Job summary

A therapeutic education institution in Horsham is looking for a qualified Design and Technology Teacher. The role involves teaching at GCSE and A Level, with a focus on engaging and inclusive lessons. Successful candidates will hold Qualified Teacher Status and possess strong knowledge in modern Design and Technology disciplines. This position offers the opportunity to be part of a nurturing community that supports students with SEMH challenges.

Qualifications

• Must hold QTS and have experience teaching Design and Technology at secondary level.
• Deep knowledge of product design, resistant materials, electronics, and textiles.
• Skilled in using modern design technologies including CAD/CAM.

Responsibilities

• Design and deliver creative learning experiences that promote problem-solving.
• Join in all aspects of school life and be flexible outside of the subject area.
• Contribute to whole-school development and curriculum innovation.

Skills

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Curriculum expertise in Modern D&T disciplines

Digital and technological proficiency

Innovative and inclusive pedagogy

Strategic and collaborative mindset

Job description

Overview

Polaris Education - Apple Orchard School

Design and Technology Teacher

Contract type: Full-Time, Term Time Only

Salary: Up to £38,000

Contract term: Permanent

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Hours: 08:30 - 16:30

Apple Orchard is an expanding therapeutic community with a small secondary school attached. All students are looked after and have SEMH challenges and as such we are looking for a teacher that has taught at GCSE and A Level with a passion to work with those who are most vulnerable and one who can build trusting, solid relationships.

Apple Orchard School is an integral part of a therapeutic community consisting of residential care and a therapy team. The Headteacher leads an experienced team of teachers and teaching assistants. Between them, they offer a wide range of subjects that draw from the National Curriculum and GCSE pathways as a start point.

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated and committed professional to join in the continued development and success of the school. The successful candidate will have:

Responsibilities

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) – Must hold QTS and have experience teaching Design and Technology at secondary level; demonstrates a strong understanding of safeguarding, curriculum planning, and assessment practices; and has a current driving licence.
• Curriculum expertise in Modern D&T disciplines – Deep knowledge of product design, resistant materials, electronics, textiles, and CAD/CAM; experience delivering engaging, inclusive lessons that meet national curriculum standards and reflect current industry practices.
• Digital and technological proficiency – Skilled in using modern design technologies including 3D modelling software, laser cutters, CNC machinery, and microcontrollers; ability to embed digital literacy and future technologies into teaching and learning.
• Innovative and inclusive pedagogy – Proven ability to design and deliver creative, adapted learning experiences that promote problem-solving, collaboration, and resilience; experience in project-based learning and cross-curricular initiatives, especially within STEM and sustainability contexts.
• Strategic and collaborative mindset – Willingness to contribute to whole-school development, curriculum innovation, and enrichment activities; ability to work effectively within a team and build partnerships with industry, higher education, and the wider community.

Due to the nature of the school and size of the team, the successful candidate will be expected to join in all aspects of school life, be flexible outside of their subject area and be willing to teach an additional subject as directed by the headteacher.

Qualifications & Requirements

• Enhanced DBS Check (cost covered by Apple Orchard School).

Apple Orchard School is an equal opportunities employer and positively encourages applications from suitably qualified and eligible candidates.

Apple Orchard School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, young people, and vulnerable adults and expects all staff to share this commitment.

If you are interested in the post visits to the school are welcome.