Head of Art & Design

Head of Art & Design – Secondary School

At Engage Education, we’re working with a fantastic secondary school in Islington to recruit an enthusiastic and experienced Head of Art & Design. This is an excellent opportunity for an ambitious Art & Design teacher looking to take on a leadership position within a supportive and forward-thinking school.

About the role

As Head of Art & Design, you will lead the Art & Design department, ensuring students receive an engaging, challenging and high-quality curriculum. You will be responsible for supporting the development of the department, maintaining high standards of teaching and learning, and inspiring students to achieve their full potential.

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) is required
• Strong experience teaching Art & Design at secondary level
• Experience leading a department or subject area is highly desirable
• Strong knowledge of the secondary Art & Design curriculum
• Excellent classroom and behaviour management skills
• A passion for Art & Design and the ability to inspire students
• Strong organisational and communication skills

Your Role as Head of Art & Design

As Head of Art & Design, you’ll be responsible for leading and developing the department while continuing to deliver high-quality lessons. You will work closely with the school’s senior leadership team and other curriculum leaders to ensure excellent outcomes for students.

• Leading and managing the Art & Design department
• Planning and delivering engaging Art & Design lessons across Key Stages 3 and 4
• Developing and reviewing the Art & Design curriculum
• Supporting and mentoring teachers within the department
• Monitoring teaching and learning and providing constructive feedback
• Setting high expectations for student achievement, behaviour and progress
• Tracking student progress and identifying areas for intervention and development
• Preparing students effectively for GCSE and other relevant qualifications
• Managing departmental resources and ensuring they are used effectively
• Supporting departmental planning, assessment and moderation
• Contributing to whole-school improvement and curriculum development
• Working collaboratively with colleagues, parents and school leaders
• Promoting creativity, confidence and independent learning among students
• Following the school’s safeguarding, behaviour and health and safety policies

What Makes a Great Head of Art & Design?

Successful Heads of Art & Design bring a combination of leadership, creativity, subject expertise and excellent classroom practice to their role. Key attributes include:

• Subject expertise: A strong understanding of Art & Design and the ability to deliver an exciting and challenging curriculum.
• Leadership: The confidence to lead, motivate and develop a department while working collaboratively with colleagues.
• Creativity: The ability to inspire students and encourage creative thinking and individual expression.
• Classroom management: Excellent behaviour management skills and the ability to maintain a positive learning environment.
• Communication: Strong communication skills when working with students, colleagues, parents and senior leaders.
• Organisation: The ability to manage curriculum planning, assessment, resources and departmental responsibilities effectively.
• High expectations: A commitment to achieving excellent academic and creative outcomes for every student.
• Adaptability and resilience: The ability to respond positively to different situations and contribute effectively to a busy school environment.
• Professionalism: A reliable, enthusiastic and professional approach to teaching and leadership.

About us:

We are Engage Education, the most trusted education recruitment agency, with professional development and support at our core.

• Get paid in line with national scales (AWR compliant)
• Free CPD sessions
• Your own dedicated consultant
• Receive a £50 Amazon voucher when you refer friends!
• Wellbeing support, travel discounts, and retail offers from our partners

How to apply:

You can apply for this role below or get in touch with us directly. All applicants require the appropriate qualifications, including QTS, and relevant experience.

If you are not contacted within 2 working days, unfortunately, you have been unsuccessful in this role. All applicants must have a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check before starting work. Full assistance will be provided.

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