Academic Assitant (Design Technology)

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed. Appointment is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check for regulated activity (if the candidate has lived in the UK) and/or criminal/police or equivalent background checks for all other countries inhabited (irrespective of whether you worked in those countries).
JOB SUMMARY
The Design Technology Academic Assistant reports directly to Leader of Learning Design and the Secondary Principal, performing a range of duties, including but not limited to:
Learning & Technical Support
- Support teachers and students during lessons (including design, drawing, prototyping and practical lessons), promoting safe and responsible use of tools, machinery and equipment.
- Provide technical guidance in the safe and effective use of tools, machinery, materials and manufacturing processes.
Support teachers and students from other departments with projects and activities requiring Design Technology resources, facilities or technical expertise.
Workshop & Equipment Management
- Prepare workshops, materials, tools and equipment before practical lessons and ensure resources are appropriately set up and ready for use.
- Maintain workshop equipment in a safe, clean and operational condition, carrying out routine maintenance and identifying faults or issues requiring specialist attention.
- Keep workshops, preparation areas, and storage spaces clean, organised and appropriately maintained.
- Conduct regular checks of tools, machinery, and equipment.
- Ensure digital and computer-controlled equipment is correctly configured, tested and ready for use prior to practical activities.
Digital Fabrication & Technology
- Set up, operate, and maintain digital fabrication equipment (including but not limited to laser cutters, 3D printers, vinyl cutters, electronics equipment, hand tools and CAD/CAM).
- Prepare and manage digital fabrication workflows, including checking files, materials, machine settings and other requirements prior to production.
- Troubleshoot common hardware, software and fabrication issues and liaise with appropriate technical support or service providers when required.
- Provide technical advice regarding appropriate materials, tools, equipment and manufacturing processes.
Materials, Inventory & Procurement
- Maintain accurate inventories of Design Technology tools, equipment, materials and consumables, monitoring stock levels and proactively identifying and replacing resources required for teaching and learning.
- Source and order materials, equipment and consumables as requested by the Leader of Learning Design and in accordance with school purchasing procedures.
- Liaise with local vendors and suppliers regarding the sourcing, purchasing, delivery and maintenance of DT materials and equipment, maintaining appropriate records.
Health, Safety & Departmental Support
- Support the Design Technology department in maintaining a safe workshop environment, including regular checks of personal protection equipment, first aid supplies, and other safety resources.
- Coordinate or support periodic electrical, equipment and safety testing of workshop equipment in accordance with school requirements and relevant regulations.
- Organise student project storage and support Design Technology events and showcases, while contributing to the development and improvement of workshop systems, resources and processes that support effective MYP and DP Design Technology learning.
- Perform other duties as directed by the Headmaster, Leader of Learning Design or Secondary Principal including when requested to work during term break
- Attend professional development workshops assigned by the School
This job description indicates the general nature and level of work expected. It is not designed to cover or contain a comprehensive listing of activities, duties, or responsibilities required by the incumbent. Incumbent may be asked to perform other duties as required.