Director of Learning – Technology / Textiles / Engineering
Location: Blackburn with Darwen, UK
Salary: MPS / UPS + TLR2B
Contract Type: Permanent
Education Phases: Secondary
Job Roles: Head Of Department or Curriculum
Working Patterns: Full-Time
Application Deadline: Sunday, 19th April 2026
About Our Client
Darwen Aldridge Community Academy (DACA) has a capacity of 1200 in the lower school and also has a developing sixth form provision. The sixth form has enjoyed strong progress in both academic and applied courses and has destinations data that shows NEETs significantly lower than the national picture.
All our client’s, Aldridge, schools place enterprise and an entrepreneurial spirit at the heart of their ethos. In addition, DACA has a strong record of promoting cultural capital through its Technology and Creative Arts departments, where competition, visits and visitors are a regular part of student experience and support the development of cultural capital. DACA is very much a community school with a truly comprehensive intake.
Sitting above the national average, 33% of its cohort are designated as being in the pupil premium category and DACA works hard to support all students to achieve strong engagement and strong outcomes. With a strong focus on their four key improvement levers around culture, coaching, curriculum and data-informed instruction, the DACA team are building towards a consistent provision that supports great progress for all students.
About The Role
Lead Innovation. Shape the Future. Inspire the Next Generation.
Are you a visionary leader with a passion for cutting-edge technology, creative design, and hands-on engineering?
Our client is seeking a bold and dynamic Director of Technology, Textiles and Engineering to drive excellence, spark innovation, and transform learning experiences. This is more than a job – it’s an opportunity to redefine how technology and creativity intersect while leading a thriving department at the forefront of digital innovation, sustainable design, and engineering excellence.
In this role, you will inspire and lead a high-performing team across Technology, Textiles, and Engineering, shape a forward-thinking curriculum that blends digital skills, design thinking, practical innovation, and champion emerging technologies. You will also drive student achievement, foster a culture of creativity and problem-solving, and build strong partnerships with industry to ensure learning remains relevant and future focused.
What They’re Looking For:
- Proven leadership experience in Technology, Engineering, or Design education.
- A passion for innovation, creativity, and hands-on learning.
- Strong strategic vision with the ability to deliver results.
- Confidence in leading change and inspiring both staff and students.
- A commitment to excellence, inclusion, and continuous improvement.
They welcome applications from all sections of the community and particularly encourage applications from underrepresented demographics.
Benefits
Join the Aldridge Education Family!
Here's why working for Aldridge Education is the right choice for you:
- Aldridge Benefits Scheme – Enjoy exclusive offers and discounts tailored just for you!
- Cycle to Work Scheme – Save money and stay fit with their bike-friendly benefits.
- Employee Assistance Programme – Your wellbeing matters! Access free, confidential support whenever you need it.
- Flexible Working Opportunities – Balance work and life with flexibility that suits you.
- Free On-Site Parking – No more hunting for parking, they’ve got your spot covered.
- Generous Annual Leave – Start with a great holiday allowance, and it gets even better after 5 years!
- Pension Schemes – Secure your future with access to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme or Local Government Pension Scheme.
- Refer a Friend Scheme – Know someone who would love it here? Earn rewards by bringing them on board!
When you click apply you will be taken to our client’s careers page where you can complete your application.
