Food Technology Teacher/HLTA

Job Description

Find out exactly what skills, experience, and qualifications you will need to succeed in this role before applying below.

Food Technology Teacher / Higher Level Teaching Assistant (Food & Catering)

Location: Rural Burgess HillStart Date: September 2026Contract: Permanent - Full timeSalary: Competitive – dependent on experience and qualifications

About the Provision

We are a supportive and inclusive alternative provision in West Sussex, working with pupils who may have experienced disruption to their education. Our curriculum prioritises practical learning, engagement, and the development of real-world life skills.

Food Technology plays a vital role in helping our pupils build confidence, independence, and pathways into further education, training, or employment.

The Role

We are seeking a Food Technology Teacher or Higher Level Teaching Assistant to deliver engaging, practical food and catering sessions to small groups of pupils.

This role would suit someone with:

• Qualified teacher status or
• HLTA experience with a strong catering, hospitality, or professional cooking background

You will plan and deliver hands-on lessons that focus on:

• Practical cooking skills
• Food hygiene and safety
• Nutrition and healthy living
• Employability skills linked to catering and hospitality

Key Responsibilities

• Deliver engaging Food Technology / food preparation sessions
• Support pupils with varying needs, including SEMH and additional learning needs
• Create a calm, structured, and encouraging learning environment
• Adapt lessons to meet individual pupil needs and interests
• Promote life skills, independence, and positive relationships
• Work collaboratively with pastoral and teaching teams

About You

We are looking for someone who:

• Has experience teaching or supporting Food Technology, catering, or cooking
• Holds QTS, HLTA status, or significant relevant industry experience
• Is confident working with vulnerable or disengaged young people
• Has strong behaviour-management and relationship-building skills
• Is patient, resilient, and passionate about practical learning

Desirable (but not essential):

• Experience in alternative provision or SEND settings
• Food Safety / Hygiene certification
• Teaching qualification or willingness to work towards one

Why Join Us?

• Small class sizes and strong team support
• Opportunity to make a genuine difference to young people’s lives
• Practical, skills-focused curriculum
• Supportive leadership and professional development opportunities

How to Apply

To apply, please submit your CV and a short supporting statement outlining your experience and interest in the role.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. xwzovoh All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks and satisfactory references.