Ed Smith

Design Technology teacher with over eight years' experience across secondary education, including leadership as Head of Department. Specialist in Resistant Materials (wood, metal and 3D design), with a strong track record of delivering the UK National Curriculum at KS3, GCSE and A-Level. Experienced in planning sequenced curricula that develop technical skill, material understanding and independent design thinking.

Confident in preparing students for both NEA/coursework and written examinations, with a focus on high-quality outcomes and clear progression. Teaching approach emphasises explicit modelling, structured practice, and an iterative design process, enabling students to refine ideas, test prototypes and improve outcomes over time.

Head of Hard Craft (Design Technology) at Norwich Steiner School (2023-09 – Present)

Lead Resistant Materials provision across wide age range up to KS5-equivalent, planning sequenced projects and teaching 3D design and sculpture.

• Lead Resistant Materials provision, teaching across a wide age range up to KS5-equivalent
• Plan sequenced projects developing core skills (marking out, cutting, joining, finishing) and design understanding
• Teach 3D design and sculpture, linking concept development with making and evaluation
• Embed an iterative approach to design, supporting students to refine ideas through prototyping and feedback
• Maintain workshop systems, ensuring safe and effective use of tools and machinery
• Assess student work through practical outcomes and skill progression

Teacher of Design Technology & Art at Arora Eccles School (2022-04 – 2023-07)

Delivered KS3-KS4 Design Technology with focus on Resistant Materials and structured design projects, including coursework support.

• Delivered KS3–KS4 Design Technology with a focus on Resistant Materials and structured design projects
• Taught the full design process (research, design, make, evaluate) aligned to UK curriculum expectations
• Supported students in improving coursework through targeted feedback and iterative refinement
• Established clear routines to ensure productive and safe practical lessons

Head of Design Technology Department at Norwich High School (2019-09 – 2022-04)

Led Design Technology across KS3-KS5, including GCSE and A-Level Product Design, with responsibility for curriculum planning, exam preparation, and department management.

• Led DT across KS3–KS5, including GCSE and A-Level Product Design
• Planned and implemented schemes of work integrating theory, materials knowledge and practical application
• Prepared students for NEA and written examinations through structured teaching and revision support
• Standardised assessment and moderated coursework to ensure consistency and accuracy
• Managed workshops, resources and health & safety systems across the department
• Supported colleagues with curriculum planning and classroom practice

Teacher of Design Technology / Learning Support at Norwich High School (2018-09 – 2019-07)

Delivered Design Technology lessons with targeted support for students with varying abilities to access practical work.

• Delivered DT lessons and provided targeted support to ensure all students could access practical work
• Adapted teaching approaches to support progress across a range of abilities

Studio Technician at Norwich High School (2014-11 – 2018-09)

Prepared materials, tools and machinery for DT and Art lessons, maintained equipment and ensured safety compliance.

• Prepared materials, tools and machinery for DT and Art lessons
• Maintained workshop equipment and ensured compliance with safety procedures
• Supported teachers during practical sessions

DT Technician at Sewell Park School (2012-09 – 2014-10)

Provided technical support across DT workshops, including preparation and maintenance of equipment.

• Provided technical support across DT workshops, including preparation and maintenance

Art Workshop Lead (Part-Time) at Independent (Present)

Deliver structured workshops in drawing, painting and 3D design with projects culminating in exhibitions.

• Deliver structured workshops in drawing, painting and 3D design
• Plan projects culminating in exhibitions of student work

Private Tutor – Design Technology & Woodwork at Independent (Present)

Provide 1:1 and small group tuition focused on practical skills and coursework development.

• Provide 1:1 and small group tuition focused on practical skills and coursework development

QTLS Status – Society for Education and Training (2023)

PGCE in Lifelong Learning – University of Huddersfield (2018)

BA (Hons) in Fine Art Sculpture – University of Gloucestershire (2003)