CORE PURPOSE

We are seeking a dynamic, passionate, and organized Food Technology Teacher to deliver high-quality practical and theoretical lessons across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4 (GCSE Food Preparation and Nutrition, with potential Level 1/2 Vocational Award in Hospitality and Catering). Working within an established Design & Technology department, the successful candidate will develop pupils' practical culinary skills, deepen their understanding of nutrition and food science, and cultivate high standards of kitchen safety and food hygiene.

THE SCHOOL

Set on a modern campus with high-spec catering rooms, commercial-standard food preparation suites, and dedicated technician support, this energetic secondary academy supports over 1,100 pupils aged 11–18 in Greater Manchester. As part of a forward-thinking Multi-Academy Trust, the school combines high academic standards with an emphasis on real-world practical skills and career pathways. The Food Technology department is an active and vibrant subject area, running popular extracurricular culinary clubs, masterclasses, and healthy lifestyle initiatives across the school community.

KEY TASKS & DAILY OPERATIONS

• Curriculum Delivery: Plan and teach engaging practical cooking lessons and theoretical units across KS3 and KS4 (AQA/Eduqas specifications), embedding culinary techniques, food provenance, nutrition, macro/micronutrients, and food functional properties.

• Kitchen & Food Safety Compliance: Enforce strict health and safety protocols across all teaching kitchens, maintaining compliance with food safety legislation, temperature controls, allergen management, and COSHH standards.

• NEA Assessment & Moderation: Guide GCSE pupils through Non-Examined Assessments (NEA 1 Food Investigation and NEA 2 Food Preparation Task), assessing practical skill execution and theoretical reports in line with exam board criteria.

• Resource & Practical Management: Work alongside the departmental technician to coordinate ingredient logistics, monitor kitchen equipment maintenance, manage food budgets, and ensure practical stations are prepared efficiently.

• Pastoral & Co-Curricular Role: Serve as a Form Tutor, engage with whole-school health and nutrition programs, and lead extracurricular baking and cooking initiatives.

PROFILE REQUIREMENTS

• Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or QTLS with a degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Catering, or a related discipline. A Level 2 or Level 3 Food Hygiene Certificate is essential. Early Career Teachers (ECTs) and experienced secondary teachers are equally encouraged to apply.

• Experience: Track record of delivering Food Technology or Hospitality & Catering within a UK mainstream secondary school or academy setting.

• Skills: Strong practical culinary capability, high-level understanding of food safety legislation, excellent classroom and group management during practical sessions, and the ability to inspire creative cooking skills in young people.

REGIONAL CONTEXT

• Local Area & Community: Located in Greater Manchester, one of the UK’s most vibrant conurbations, the academy serves a diverse and ambitious student population. Manchester offers world-class cultural amenities, an international culinary scene, landmark sporting venues, and excellent access to green spaces like Heaton Park and the nearby Peak District.

• Transport & Commuting: Greater Manchester boasts outstanding regional transit connectivity. The school is conveniently accessible via major road networks including the M60 orbital, M56, and M62 corridors. Public transport is comprehensive, well-served by extensive Bee Network bus routes, the Metrolink tram network, and direct rail connections through Manchester Piccadilly and Victoria stations.

APPLICATION INTAKE

Please submit your current CV to begin the application process.