Design Technology Teacher | Sixth Form College |Derby

The Opportunity Derby is a world-class center for advanced transport manufacturing, home to the global headquarters of Rolls-Royce and major Toyota production facilities. We are seeking an industry-minded and technically proficient Design & Technology (DT) Teacher to join a high-performing Sixth Form College . In this specialized post-16 environment, you will bridge the gap between classroom theory and industrial application, preparing young adults for prestigious apprenticeships and elite university courses in engineering and design. The Department & Facilities You will work within a professional, studio-style environment where the focus is on high-level Product Design and Engineering. The college features industrial-grade technology, including high-spec CAD/CAM suites (SolidWorks/AutoDesk), 3D printing labs, and precision machining workshops. You will join a team of specialists who treat DT as a professional discipline, fostering an atmosphere of innovation, critique, and high-end craftsmanship. The department benefits from strong "City of Derby" industrial links, providing students with direct access to professional mentors and real-world design briefs from local aerospace and automotive leaders. Core Responsibilities A-Level & Level 3 Delivery: Teaching A-Level Product Design and Level 3 BTEC Engineering, focusing on technical drawing, material science, and manufacturing processes. Iterative Design & Prototyping: Guiding students through the full design cycle, from initial user-centered research and sketching to high-fidelity physical prototyping. Advanced CAD/CAM Integration: Teaching students to utilize industry-standard software for complex modelling and ensuring they can translate those designs into CNC-produced components. Portfolio Development: Providing expert mentorship to students as they build professional-standard portfolios for university admissions (UCAS) and degree-level apprenticeship applications. Workshop Management: Maintaining a rigorous standard of workshop safety and tool maintenance, ensuring all practical work complies with Health and Safety (DATA) regulations for post-16 education. The Successful Candidate We are looking for a teacher who is as comfortable with a digital stylus as they are with a workshop lathe. Requirements include: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or QTLS , with a degree in Product Design, Mechanical Engineering, or a related field. Technical Authority: Extensive knowledge of modern materials and industrial manufacturing techniques, with the ability to teach complex theory at an advanced level. Industry Insight: A clear understanding of the career pathways available in the East Midlands’ engineering sector and the ability to articulate these to students. Visionary Mentor: The ability to push students beyond the basic curriculum, encouraging them to tackle ambitious, socially conscious, or commercially viable design projects. Why Join Us? A dedicated post-16 setting where students have actively chosen to specialize in Design and Technology. Access to specialized professional development focused on the latest industry trends in sustainable design and digital manufacturing. The opportunity to work in Derby—a city that offers the perfect blend of high-tech career opportunities and easy access to the Peak District. A professional, adult learning environment that values independent research and technical excellence. How to Apply Please submit your current CV to begin the application process for this Design & Technology Teacher position. An enhanced DBS check will be required for the successful candidate.