We are seeking an exceptional Director of Art to lead our thriving Art & Photography Department. This role is perfect for a dedicated professional who values individuality and excellence, and who thrives in a supportive, collaborative environment.

Description

FULL TIME FROM SEPTEMBER 2025

We are seeking an exceptional Director of Art to lead our thriving Art & Photography Department, following the promotion of our current post-holder. This role is perfect for a dedicated professional who values individuality and excellence, and who thrives in a supportive, collaborative environment.

The Art Department is housed in inspiring locations, including the historic ‘Blackfriars’—a former 13th-century Dominican monastery and King Street, which hosts our dedicated Ceramics and Photography studios.

As Director of Art, you will lead a department celebrated for its success and the high levels of achievement by its students. Many King’s pupils have gone on to excel in Art Foundation courses and Fine Art degrees. Our teaching ethos emphasises independent thought, creative expression, and a well-rounded aesthetic education that nurtures both critical and technical skills. Your leadership will continue fostering a dynamic environment where individuality and excellence are the hallmarks of student work.

Key Responsibilities:

• Leading and managing a talented team of six specialist art teachers and a full-time art technician;

• Developing and delivering a broad curriculum across disciplines, including Fine Art, Fashion & Textiles, Ceramics, Printmaking, and Photography;

• Inspiring students through diverse co-curricular activities, including after-hours workshops, open studio sessions, and guest artist events;

• Promoting Art Scholarship Awards and leading outreach projects with local schools;

• Delivery of GCSE and A-Level courses, ensuring students achieve the highest standards.

We are looking for an enthusiastic and adaptable leader with:

• Proven teaching experience at both GCSE and A-Level in art and photography;

• Expertise across art disciplines such as drawing, painting, printmaking, ceramics, and digital and chemical photography;

• Strong subject knowledge and a commitment to best practices in teaching and the latest in art technology;

• A proactive, flexible approach to department management;

• Excellent communication skills and the ability to foster positive relationships with students, staff, and parents;

• A passion for mentorship, collaboration, and inspiring the potential in every student.

Those considering applying but requiring more information can contact the Director of Art, Isobel Dutton, for an informal discussion: iad@kings-school.co.uk

For further information and to apply online, please visit: Current Job Vacancies • The King's School, Canterbury (kings-school.co.uk) Closing date for receipt of applications: 7 January 2025. Interviews will take place w/c 13 January 2025.

The King’s School is committed to ensuring the highest levels of safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our pupils, and we expect all our staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process which is in line with the statutory Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates.

All offers of employment are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and where applicable, a prohibition from teaching check.