Design and Technology Teacher

Polaris Community; Roman Gate; On-site; GBP 25,000 - 40,000; Full time

Job summary

A therapeutic education provider in Horsham seeks a passionate Design and Technology Teacher to join its dedicated staff team. This full-time role requires qualified applicants with experience teaching at secondary level, particularly in GCSE and A Level. The ideal candidate will be flexible, innovative, and committed to safeguarding vulnerable students. Responsibilities include delivering engaging lessons, collaborating with colleagues for curriculum development, and actively participating in school life. The position offers an opportunity to work in a rewarding environment focusing on personal development.

Qualifications

• Experience teaching at GCSE and A Level in Design and Technology.
• Strong understanding of safeguarding, curriculum planning, and assessment.
• Ability to use modern design technologies in teaching.

Responsibilities

• Teach Design and Technology to secondary students.
• Create engaging and inclusive lessons that meet curriculum standards.
• Collaborate with staff on curriculum development.

Skills

Experience teaching Design and Technology

Curriculum expertise in D&T disciplines

Digital literacy in design technologies

Problem-solving and collaborative skills

Ability to teach across subjects

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Tools

3D modeling software

Laser cutters

CNC machinery

Job description

Polaris Education – Apple Orchard School

Design and Technology Teacher

Contract type: Full‑Time, Term Time Only

Contract term: Permanent

Location: Horsham, West Sussex

Hours: 08:30 – 16:30

About our School

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.

Our Expectations

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 be required to complete an enhanced DBS Check, the cost of which will be met by Apple Orchard School.

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

• 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; have a current driving licence.
• Curriculum Expertise in Modern D&T Disciplines. Deep knowledge of key areas such as product design, resistant materials, electronics, textiles, and CAD/CAM; experience in 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.

Equal Opportunity and Safeguarding

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 this post, visits to the school are welcome.