Teacher of Design Technology

Ref: 169529 

The Acorns School, a successful 11-16 Pupil Referral Unit (known locally as 'Acorns') is expanding. A range of academic, creative and vocational courses are offered in-house and externally with partner organisations. Applications are welcome from appropriately trained colleagues able to offer the following skills/ experience:

We seek a teacher of Design Technology who would be willing to deliver courses relating to joinery, carpentry, simple construction, landscaping etc. This post also requires the teaching of functional literacy and numeracy. GCSE DT has been offered previously and we may continue with this, but would explore appropriate alternative courses for KS4 students. The school has trialled a land based studies BTEC course. Some older students wish to train post 16 in the construction industry. Younger students enjoy practical subjects and engage well when they are learning new practical skills.

There is much scope to be creative. Facilities/ resources in place to deliver courses, are situated to the rear of the premises in a designated area of the school where horticulture projects are in place currently. This area includes a resourced workshop building, areas for landscaping and construction, poly-tunnels, shed, raised beds and an environmental pond. There is scope to develop a room inside the building if necessary.

Context:

The Acorns School serves the West Lancashire district and occasionally pupils from outside that area. The school is commissioned by the local authority to provide an education for pupils who have been excluded from a secondary school or for those with medical needs on the advice of a medical consultant or CAMHS professional. Acorns also takes young people on roll who are unable to access a mainstream school for other reasons and this usually includes being new to the area or pupils in year 11 unable to find a school place. 

The school is also commissioned by local mainstream secondary schools to support pupils who may be at risk of exclusion or who are having difficulties in school for a variety of reasons. 

Throughout the year, the pupil roll increases and groups are subject to change. Some pupils present with challenging behaviour and complex needs but with the correct support and educational provision most learn to improve their social and emotional skills and achieve. Some pupils are looked after by foster carers or the local authority. The school works closely with early help and children's social care services and other agencies. The school employs a careers advisor who signposts and arranges positive post 16 destinations.

There are 6 classes of students who attend school and access in-house provision; 2 years 11 classes, 1 year 10, and 3 mixed KS3 groups. The aim for KS3 students is re-integration to mainstream school. Some transition to a special school. Students arriving in KS4 usually remain on roll and complete their external examination courses. Some students are taught via bespoke programmes external to the school site and in accordance with their needs.

The school is well resourced and situated in pleasant surroundings employing 26 staff. Partnership working exists with vocational providers. The small governing body is very supportive. Visitors and stakeholders comment on the positive and welcoming ethos. 

Please see our website for details - https://theacornsschool.co.uk/school-vacancies/

It is strongly advised that you visit the school as you will be able to see environment and facilities. Please contact Ashley Martindale, School Business Manager (a.martindale@westlancspcss.lancs.sch.uk) to arrange to visit.

The post is subject to enhanced DBS checks. The Acorns School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. 

Essential: Applicants should be; flexible, good team players always willing to support colleagues and share good practice, resilient, easily adaptable to change and have a positive attitude with a good sense of humour. If you believe you have the right skills, qualities and mind-set please do not hesitate to apply indicating how you can assist the school in moving forward. CPD is given the highest priority and new staff are mentored by established colleagues. 

The post you are applying for is covered by the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (as amended in 2013). If successful you will be required to apply to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) for a 'disclosure'.

Interview date: 28 June 2019 

Application forms: Please see our website for details - https://theacornsschool.co.uk/school-vacancies/ 

Closing date: 21 June 2019