Art Teacher | Outstanding Secondary Academy | Northampton

The Opportunity

Northampton is a town with a rich creative heritage, from its world-renowned history in bespoke footwear design to its thriving contemporary arts scene. We are seeking a visionary and technically skilled Art Teacher to join an Ofsted-rated 'Outstanding' secondary academy. In this role, you will inspire students to explore their creative potential, utilising Northampton’s unique blend of industrial craft and modern gallery culture to bring the curriculum to life.

The Department & Creative Culture

You will join a high-performing Creative Arts faculty where Art is a celebrated and high-attaining subject at both GCSE and A-Level. The academy features expansive, light-filled studios equipped for a wide range of disciplines, including fine art, ceramics, textiles, and digital photography. As an 'Outstanding' setting, we prioritise a 'process-led' approach—encouraging students to experiment with diverse media, refine their technical skills, and develop a sophisticated personal aesthetic. We maintain active links with local galleries and the University of Northampton’s School of Arts, providing students with opportunities for exhibition and professional workshops.

Core Responsibilities

• Exemplary Instruction: Delivering high-challenge Art lessons across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, with significant opportunities for A-Level Fine Art or Graphic Communication for suitably qualified candidates.
• Technical Mastery: Guiding students in the mastery of fundamental and advanced techniques, including drawing, painting, printmaking, and three-dimensional construction.
• Contextual Studies: Fostering a deep understanding of art history and contemporary practice, helping students to critically analyse and draw inspiration from diverse artists and movements.
• Portfolio Development: Providing granular, expert feedback to ensure students produce high-quality portfolios that meet the rigorous assessment criteria of the exam boards.
• Exhibition Leadership: Coordinating annual school exhibitions and community art projects to showcase student talent and promote the value of the arts within the wider school community.

The Successful Candidate

We are looking for a practitioner who is as passionate about their own artistic practice as they are about teaching. Requirements include:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) and a strong honours degree in Fine Art or a related creative discipline.
• Proven Track Record: Evidence of delivering exceptional learning outcomes at GCSE and A-Level, with a deep understanding of AQA or Edexcel assessment objectives.
• Instructional Versatility: The ability to engage learners of all abilities through a curriculum that balances traditional skill-building with contemporary conceptual exploration.
• Reflective Practice: A professional committed to continuous growth, eager to participate in collaborative planning and the curation of inspiring learning environments.

Why Join Us?

• The chance to work in an 'Outstanding' environment where student behaviour is exemplary and the Arts are held in high academic regard.
• Unrivalled professional development pathways, including opportunities for middle leadership and specialised training in advanced creative pedagogy.
• The opportunity to work in Northampton—a historic town offering excellent amenities, affordable living, and superb transport links to the creative hubs of London and Birmingham.
• A prestigious professional community that values innovation, intellectual rigour, and the holistic development of every student.

How to Apply

Please submit your current CV to begin the application process.