Head of Art in Cottenham

Position: Head of Art

Location: Cottenham, Cambridgeshire

Contract Type: Permanent, Full-Time

Start Date: September 2026 (or sooner if available)

Salary: MPS / UPS + TLR 2a

Are you an inspirational Art teacher and an ambitious leader ready to shape the creative vision of a thriving department? Do you have the passion to cultivate artistic talent, drive academic excellence, and foster a lifelong love for the arts across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4? We are seeking to appoint a talented, forward-thinking Head of Art for a permanent opportunity at an established and highly regarded secondary academy in Cottenham. This is a pivotal middle-management role within a supportive and well-resourced school environment. You will lead a dedicated team of subject specialists, oversee a vibrant curriculum, and ensure that Art remains a celebrated and high-achieving corner of the school community.

Key Responsibilities:

• Strategic Leadership: Provide a clear vision and strategic direction for the Art department, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and achievement across all year groups.
• Curriculum Design: Review, develop, and implement an engaging, diverse, and robust Art curriculum that challenges pupils and aligns with current exam board specifications at GCSE.
• Team Management: Line-manage and mentor departmental staff and technicians, fostering a collaborative, supportive working environment focused on continuous professional development.
• Student Progress: Monitor, assess, and track student achievement data, implementing effective interventions where necessary to ensure all learners reach their full potential.
• Enrichment: Champion the subject within the wider school community by organising exhibitions, gallery visits, and extra-curricular creative clubs.

What We Are Looking For:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or a recognised equivalent teaching qualification, with a degree in Art or a closely related discipline.
• A proven track record of outstanding Art teaching at secondary level, with a history of strong GCSE results.
• Previous leadership experience (such as Second in Department) is advantageous, but experienced teachers looking for their first step into management are highly encouraged to apply.
• Exceptional communication, organisational, and interpersonal skills to lead a team and engage effectively with parents and school leadership.
• Up-to-date knowledge of the national curriculum, assessment frameworks, and safety guidelines for art studios and equipment.
• A valid Enhanced DBS check registered on the Update Service (or a willingness to undergo a new application).

What the School Offers:

• A permanent contract within a stable, supportive, and ambitious secondary academy network.
• Well-equipped art studios, specialist resources, and dedicated technician support.
• A competitive salary package with an attractive TLR allowance.
• Comprehensive, tailored CPD and leadership development opportunities to support your future career progression.
• A collaborative staff culture with a strong emphasis on teacher well-being and a manageable workload.

Ready to lead and inspire the next generation of creative minds? Take the next step in your leadership career in an environment that truly values the arts.

How to Apply:

Please send your current CV along with a brief cover letter outlining your leadership philosophy and artistic experience to richard.wilkinson@randstad.co.uk, or call 01223 368836 to speak with our permanent recruitment team for a confidential discussion. We are strictly committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All candidates will be required to undergo comprehensive vetting, reference checks, and an enhanced DBS disclosure.