At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and shape a new MFA in Costume Design, nurturing the next generation of talent.
- Company: Join the National Film and Television School, a top institution for film and television education.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, creative environment, and the chance to build a new department.
- Other info: Opportunity for career growth in a culturally diverse and inclusive workplace.
- Why this job: Be part of an exciting expansion and make a real impact in the film industry.
- Qualifications: Experienced costume designer with a passion for teaching and mentoring.
The predicted salary is between 65000 - 65000 € per year.
Full time (35 hours a week), salary in the region of £65,000 per annum, depending on experience.
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) has evolved into one of the world's leading institutions for film, television and games. The NFTS is expanding its campus, increasing student capacity by 25%, and launching bold new courses in costume design, hair and make‑up, virtual production and advanced animation.
The new MFA in Costume Design for Film and Television is a direct response to industry demand for highly skilled costume designers and supervisors. This practice‑led, two‑year full‑time MFA will prepare students for professional work at the highest level of film and high‑end television.
About the role: We are seeking an outstanding screen costume professional to lead this new department from the ground up. As Head of Department, you will shape the curriculum, build the team, forge industry relationships, and create the culture of a brand new area of provision within one of the world's most respected film schools.
About you: You will be an experienced costume designer with a strong track record in film and/or high‑end television, and a passion for developing the next generation of talent.
Purpose of role: The Head of Department provides academic and professional leadership for the Costume Design MFA, ensuring it remains rigorous, industry‑relevant, and at the forefront of screen costume practice. The role combines hands‑on teaching and studio supervision with curriculum ownership, student support, budget oversight, and active engagement with the school's wider academic community and external industry partners.
Key Responsibilities:
- Leadership and Teaching: Lead and teach on the MFA course in Costume Design, delivering sessions across core subject areas and providing one‑to‑one tutorial support to students.
- Curriculum and Quality: Take ownership of ongoing curriculum review and development, ensuring the course remains current, industry‑relevant, and intellectually demanding.
- Collaboration and Partnerships: Engage proactively with colleagues across other NFTS departments to develop shared teaching, workshops, and cross‑course initiatives that benefit students.
- Marketing and Profile: Work proactively with the school’s Marketing team to promote the course effectively, representing the course at open days, outreach events, taster days, and other recruitment activities.
- Budget and Administration: Review and manage the departmental budget in collaboration with the school Management Accountant, maintaining responsible budgetary control within agreed limits.
At the NFTS, people are at the heart of what we do. We're an inclusive employer and are committed to equality of opportunity and building a culturally diverse workforce.
Head of Department - Costume Design employer: National Film & Television School
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to shape a new department within one of the world's leading film schools. With a commitment to inclusivity and professional development, NFTS provides a collaborative work culture, backed by significant government funding and industry partnerships, ensuring employees can thrive in a dynamic environment while nurturing the next generation of creative talent.
Contact Detail:
National Film & Television School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Department - Costume Design
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Attend industry events, workshops, and film festivals to meet people in the costume design world. The more connections we make, the better our chances of landing that dream job.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your portfolio! Make sure it’s up-to-date and highlights your best work. When we get the chance to chat with potential employers, having a killer portfolio can really set us apart from the competition.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job openings to pop up. Reach out to companies or schools like NFTS directly and express our interest in working with them. Sometimes, opportunities come from simply asking!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure our application gets seen by the right people. Plus, we can keep track of our applications easily and stay updated on any new roles that come up.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Department - Costume Design
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your passion for costume design shine through! We want to see your enthusiasm for shaping the next generation of talent and how your experience aligns with our vision at NFTS.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to highlight your relevant experience in film and high-end television. We’re looking for someone who can lead a new department, so showcase your leadership skills and any curriculum development you've been involved in.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to tell us why you’re the perfect fit for this role. Be specific about your achievements and how they relate to the responsibilities of the Head of Department position. We love a good story!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the details you need about the role and the exciting journey ahead at NFTS.
How to prepare for a job interview at National Film & Television School
✨Know Your Craft Inside Out
As a candidate for the Head of Department in Costume Design, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of costume design principles and practices. Be prepared to discuss your past projects, the creative processes you employed, and how you overcame challenges in your work.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
This role requires strong leadership abilities, so think about examples from your experience where you've successfully led a team or project. Highlight how you nurtured talent, fostered collaboration, and created a positive learning environment for students or colleagues.
✨Engage with Industry Trends
Stay updated on the latest trends in film and television costume design. Be ready to discuss how these trends can influence the curriculum and prepare students for real-world challenges. Showing that you’re in tune with industry demands will set you apart.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions about the NFTS's vision for the new department. Ask about their expectations, the support available for faculty, and how they envision collaboration with industry partners. This shows your genuine interest in shaping the future of the programme.
