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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Art department, driving creativity and high standards in teaching.
- Company: Prestigious secondary school in Reading with a strong academic reputation.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive leadership, and opportunities for professional development.
- Other info: Join a collaborative team dedicated to artistic excellence and student success.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' artistic journeys in a vibrant and ambitious environment.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status, degree in Fine Art, and proven secondary teaching experience.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
A prestigious and high achieving secondary school in Reading is seeking an experienced and creative Head of Art to lead its successful Art & Design department. The school is open to an April 2026 or September 2026 start. This is an excellent opportunity to drive artistic excellence and curriculum innovation within a structured and academically ambitious environment. Art is a valued subject within the school, with strong uptake at GCSE and A Level. The department encourages technical precision, creative exploration, and contextual understanding, supported by dedicated studio spaces and high-quality resources.
The Role
- Leading and managing the Art department across KS3, KS4, and KS5
- Driving high standards of teaching, learning, and creative outcomes
- Developing an ambitious and well-sequenced Art curriculum
- Overseeing coursework, moderation, and examination preparation
- Line managing Art staff and supporting professional development
- Organising exhibitions, displays, and enrichment opportunities
- Managing departmental budgets and resources
- Contributing to whole-school curriculum and leadership initiatives
The Ideal Candidate Will Have
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
- A degree in Fine Art or related discipline
- Proven experience teaching Art at secondary level, including KS5
- Previous departmental leadership experience
- A strong track record of raising attainment and promoting creative excellence
- Excellent organisational and communication skills
- The ability to inspire both pupils and staff
This Reading secondary school benefits from strong academic standards, supportive leadership, and a collaborative Art department committed to maintaining high-quality outcomes.
Salary
MPS/UPS + TLR or Leadership Scale (dependent on experience)
Application
To apply for this Head of Art position in Reading, please submit your CV outlining your leadership and teaching experience. Early applications are encouraged as the school is keen to secure a strong appointment.
Head of Art – Prestigious Secondary School in Reading employer: Marchant Recruitment
Contact Detail:
Marchant Recruitment Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Art – Prestigious Secondary School in Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend art exhibitions, and join online forums. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your creativity! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best work and teaching methods. This will not only impress potential employers but also give them a taste of your artistic vision.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings. Reach out directly to schools you admire, like the one in Reading. Express your interest and share how you can contribute to their Art department.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the easiest way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate individuals who can drive artistic excellence in schools.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Art – Prestigious Secondary School in Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Showcase Your Passion for Art: When writing your application, let your love for art shine through! Share specific examples of how you've inspired students and fostered creativity in your previous roles. We want to see your enthusiasm for the subject and how you can bring that energy to our school.
Tailor Your CV to the Role: Make sure your CV highlights your relevant experience in teaching and leading an Art department. We’re looking for someone who can drive high standards, so emphasise any achievements in raising attainment or developing innovative curricula. Customising your CV shows us you’re serious about this opportunity!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon where possible. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and experience at a glance.
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 the role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community right from the start!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Art Curriculum
Make sure you’re well-versed in the current Art curriculum and any innovative practices you can bring to the table. Be ready to discuss how you would develop a well-sequenced curriculum that encourages both technical precision and creative exploration.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your previous leadership experiences, especially in managing an Art department. Highlight how you've driven high standards and supported staff development, as this will be crucial for the role.
✨Engage with the School's Vision
Research the school’s ethos and values. Be prepared to discuss how your vision for the Art department aligns with their academic ambitions and how you can contribute to whole-school initiatives.
✨Bring Your Creative Ideas
Think about unique projects or exhibitions you could organise that would enhance the Art department's profile. Presenting fresh ideas will show your passion for the subject and your commitment to inspiring students and staff alike.