Find a job 
Featured Companies 
Featured Universities 
For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire Art, Design and Technology across the school, shaping a creative curriculum.
- Company: Join Downsend, an innovative independent school with a vision for future-ready education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunches, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Permanent, full-time role starting September 2026 with excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' creativity and problem-solving skills in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Exceptional teaching experience in GCSE and A-level ADT with strong leadership skills.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 £ per year.
About the School
Downsend is an innovative and forward‑thinking independent school with a new vision: to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world. We prepare our young people with a creative and problem‑solving approach. We think big, celebrate innovation, and never hold back. All four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be ‘excellent in all areas’ by the Independent School Inspectorate.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004, we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries—serving more than 100,000 students. Each of our schools is uniquely distinct, yet our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world. We nurture every student’s distinct personality and strengths, supporting them academically, socially, and emotionally wherever they are. We protect what’s special about them while offering rich knowledge, opportunities, and best practices, ensuring every child receives a world‑class education.
About the Role
As Head of ADT and Creative Learning, you will lead and champion Art, Design and Technology across the school, covering resistant materials, textiles, food and nutrition. Working closely with the Heads of School, you will shape and deliver an ambitious, high‑quality ADT curriculum from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 5, ensuring strong continuity from Key Stage 2. You will embed the school’s vision for creative learning as an essential future skill, manage and inspire a dedicated team of teachers and technical staff, oversee enrichment opportunities such as competitions and scholarships, and contribute actively to the wider life of the school through co‑curricular and cross‑curricular initiatives. This is a permanent, full‑time role with an anticipated start date in September 2026.
Who We Are Looking For
You are an exceptional and dynamic teacher with experience of teaching GCSE and A‑level ADT and a proven ability to lead and motivate others. You bring excellent organisational and communication skills, a calm and confident leadership presence, and a genuine passion for creativity in learning. Committed to professional development and high standards, you thrive in a collaborative environment and inspire pupils and colleagues alike.
Benefits at Cognita
- Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme
- Free lunch provided during Term Time
- School holidays and public holidays
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third‑party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
Safeguarding and Equality
Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check. We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Head of ADT and Creative Learning in Surrey employer: Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd
Contact Detail:
Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of ADT and Creative Learning in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who are already part of Cognita or Downsend. A friendly chat can open doors and give you insider info about the role.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your innovative teaching methods and successful projects in ADT. This will demonstrate your passion for creative learning and set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 3
Get involved in the community! Attend events or workshops related to education and creative learning. This not only boosts your visibility but also shows your commitment to professional development and collaboration.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the Cognita family and contributing to our vision of inspiring future generations.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of ADT and Creative Learning in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Art, Design and Technology shine through. We want to see how you inspire creativity in your students and how you plan to champion this across the school.
Tailor Your CV: Make sure your CV highlights your experience with GCSE and A-level ADT. We’re looking for someone who can lead and motivate, so include examples of how you've done this in previous roles.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that make it easy for us to see your qualifications and fit for the role. Avoid jargon and keep it straightforward!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Downsend.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Asia Holdings Pte Ltd
✨Know Your Creative Vision
Before the interview, take some time to reflect on your own creative philosophy and how it aligns with Downsend's vision. Be ready to discuss specific examples of how you've inspired creativity in your previous roles, especially in ADT.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to share instances where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight your ability to motivate others and foster collaboration, as this role requires inspiring both students and staff.
✨Engage with the Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the current ADT curriculum and think about innovative ways to enhance it. Bring ideas to the table during the interview that demonstrate your commitment to high-quality education and continuous improvement.
✨Emphasise Professional Development
Discuss your commitment to ongoing professional development. Share any relevant courses or training you've undertaken, and express your enthusiasm for learning new teaching methods that can benefit both you and your students.