Communities and Public Engagement
To lead the development and delivery of innovative programmes for schools, colleges, universities, families, young people and communities that connect art, landscape, ecology and heritage. To develop participatory projects that respond to YSP's exhibitions, collections, landscape, archives and histories.
National Arts Education Archive and Research
To contribute to strategic leadership for the National Arts Education Archive as a core part of YSP's public, artistic and research identity. Alongside the Archive Coordinator develop the archive as a living resource that actively informs YSP's participation strategy, artistic programme and public engagement work.
Partnerships, Advocacy and Fundraising
To represent and advocate for YSP regionally, nationally and internationally through conferences, lectures, talks and sector networks. To maintain and develop strategic partnerships with schools, universities, local authorities, cultural organisations and community partners.
Operational Management
To oversee the planning, scheduling and delivery of departmental programmes and events. To manage departmental budgets, reporting and evaluation mechanisms and financial monitoring in order to contribute to reflective practices and impact measurement of education and engagement at YSP.
Job Requirements
Knowledge, Skills and Experience required Essential A first degree and/or post-graduate qualification in a relevant subject area OR relevant transferable experience Significant experience of working at a senior or management level within the cultural, arts, education, heritage or environmental sectors Proven experience of leading and developing teams with clarity, empathy and ambition Experience of developing organisational or departmental strategy Significant experience of developing innovative participation, engagement or public programmes for diverse audiences Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, including the ability to communicate strategic
and operational direction to stakeholders and staff at all levels Strong understanding of interdisciplinary practice across art, landscape, ecology, heritage and public culture Experience of working collaboratively with artists, educators, researchers and communities
Job Responsibilities
Please see view the recruitment pack to read the full job description.
Job Overview
Job Title: Head of Education and Communities
Salary: 40k-50k
published - Wed, 30 Sep 2026
Job Summary
To be responsible for leading YSP's established programme of learning, engagement and community practice, supporting and developing the team who deliver this work, while shaping a new strategic vision for participation, engagement and interdisciplinary research at Yorkshire Sculpture Park.
Job Description
Responsibilities Strategic Leadership To develop and lead a new Creative Communities and Research Strategy informed by interdisciplinary research, contemporary artistic practice and the National Arts Education Archive. To position YSP as a leading centre for interdisciplinary public practice connecting art, landscape, ecology, heritage, creativity and participation.
Team Leadership and Management To lead, support and manage the Learning Team, fostering a collaborative, ambitious and supportive working culture. To provide clear leadership, direction and day‑time management for direct reports and wider freelance and artist educator teams.
Creative
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Head of Education and Communities employer: Arts Council England
Arts Council England is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and inclusive work culture that values flexibility and employee well-being. With a focus on professional growth, employees benefit from generous annual leave, a final salary pension scheme, and opportunities to lead innovative digital projects in a collaborative environment. Located in Manchester, the role allows for hybrid working, ensuring a balanced approach to work and life while contributing to meaningful organisational change.
