At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire the ADT faculty, shaping a creative curriculum for students.
- Company: Inclusive secondary school in Bristol focused on creativity and ambition.
- Benefits: Opportunity for professional growth and collaboration in a vibrant environment.
- Other info: Join a supportive community dedicated to high-quality education and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' creative journeys and future careers.
- Qualifications: QTS and strong expertise in Art, Design Technology or related fields.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 131056 £ per year.
Location: Bristol
Full-Time | Head of Department Role
Start Date: September 2026
I am recruiting alongside a well-established and highly inclusive secondary school in Bristol to appoint an inspiring Head of ADT. This is a key middle-leadership opportunity for a creative and forward-thinking educator to shape and lead a vibrant ADT faculty within a values-driven school community.
About the School:
This 11–16 secondary school is known for its strong emphasis on inclusion, creativity and ambition for all students. The school serves a diverse local community and is committed to ensuring every young person develops the confidence, skills and cultural awareness needed to succeed beyond school.
Art, Design & Technology play a central role in the school’s curriculum. ADT is designed to:
- Encourage creative thinking, problem-solving and innovation
- Develop strong practical, technical and design skills
- Expose students to diverse artists, designers and cultural influences
- Build resilience, independence and pride in students’ creative outcomes
- Prepare learners for further study and careers in creative, digital and technical industries
The successful candidate will join a school that values collaboration, professional growth and high-quality teaching, with creativity seen as a powerful tool for engagement and personal development.
The Role:
As Head of ADT, you will:
- Provide strategic leadership across Art, Design Technology and related creative subjects
- Lead an ambitious and coherent ADT curriculum across KS3 and KS4
- Inspire a love of creativity and design through high-quality teaching and curriculum vision
- Line manage and support ADT staff, promoting professional development and high standards
- Monitor progress, attainment and curriculum impact to drive improvement
- Champion inclusive practice and high expectations for all learners, including SEND
- Work closely with senior leaders to contribute to whole-school development
- Support enrichment, exhibitions and creative opportunities beyond the classroom
Who This Role Suits:
- Experienced ADT teachers ready to step into middle leadership
- Current Heads of Department or subject leads seeking a new challenge
- Creative educators passionate about curriculum design and student empowerment
- Leaders who value inclusion, collaboration and continuous improvement
Experience & Requirements:
- QTS (Qualified Teacher Status)
- Degree or strong subject expertise in Art, Design Technology, Digital or related creative fields
- Proven experience teaching ADT at KS3 and KS4
- Experience contributing to or leading curriculum development
- Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills
- Commitment to inclusive, high-quality education
- Enhanced Child-Only DBS (or willingness to apply)
How to Apply:
Please send your CV and a brief cover letter outlining your ADT specialism, leadership experience and vision for creative education.
Contact: Emilia Harris
Closing Date: 30th June
All applicants will require the appropriate qualifications and training for this role. Please see the FAQ’s on the Teaching Personnel website for details.
Teaching Personnel is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. We undertake safeguarding checks on all workers in accordance with DfE statutory guidance ‘Keeping Children Safe in Education’ this may also include an online search as part of our due diligence on shortlisted applicants.
We offer all our registered candidates FREE child protection and prevent duty training. All candidates must undertake or have undertaken a valid enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check. Full assistance provided.
Head of ADT - September Start in Bristol employer: Teaching Personnel
Contact Detail:
Teaching Personnel Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of ADT - September Start in Bristol
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who are already in leadership roles. They might have insider info on openings or even put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! When you get the chance to interview, bring examples of your work or projects you've led. This is your time to shine and demonstrate how you can inspire students and staff alike.
✨Tip Number 3
Research the school culture! Understand their values and how they approach ADT. Tailor your discussions to show how your vision aligns with theirs, making it clear that you're the perfect fit for their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s super easy and ensures your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we’re always looking for passionate educators who want to make a difference!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of ADT - September Start in Bristol
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft Your CV with Care: Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Highlight your experience in ADT and any leadership roles you've held. Tailor it to show how your skills align with the school's values and mission.
Write a Compelling Cover Letter: This is your chance to shine! Share your passion for creativity and education, and outline your vision for the ADT curriculum. Make sure to connect your experiences to the role and the school's ethos.
Showcase Your Leadership Style: As a Head of Department, your leadership approach matters. In your application, give examples of how you've supported staff development and fostered an inclusive environment. We want to see your collaborative spirit!
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at Teaching Personnel
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the ADT curriculum, especially how it aligns with the school’s values of inclusion and creativity. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would implement to inspire students and enhance their learning experience.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to talk about your leadership approach and how you plan to support and develop your team. Think of examples where you've successfully managed staff or led a project that improved student outcomes, as this will demonstrate your capability for the role.
✨Emphasise Inclusivity and Diversity
Given the school's commitment to inclusivity, be prepared to share your experiences with diverse learners and how you’ve adapted your teaching methods to meet varied needs. Highlight any initiatives you've led that promote cultural awareness and engagement.
✨Bring Your Creative Vision
Articulate your vision for the ADT department and how you plan to foster creativity among students. Discuss innovative projects or exhibitions you’ve organised in the past, and how these experiences can translate into exciting opportunities for the school.