At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the strategic development of learning and participation at Marlowe Theatre.
- Company: Join a vibrant theatre committed to community engagement and youth development.
- Benefits: 12-month fixed-term role with opportunities for impactful work and professional growth.
- Other info: Be part of an exciting project to create a world-class Creative Learning Centre.
- Why this job: Shape the future of arts education and make a difference in young people's lives.
- Qualifications: Experience in arts education, strong leadership, and strategic planning skills.
The predicted salary is between 60000 - 80000 € per year.
The Director of Learning and Participation (Interim) will lead on the strategic development, management and implementation of the Marlowe Theatre's Learning and Participation work across three strands of Young People, Education and Community. To lead on strategy development as we enter the next phase of business plan development.
Responsibilities
- Lead on the strategic development, management and implementation of the Marlowe Theatre's Learning and Participation work across three strands of Young People, Education and Community.
- Develop and maintain key external learning and participation partnerships and relationships (including our Resident and Associate Companies, local schools and the wider education and community sectors).
- Work collaboratively across departments, ensuring that Learning & Participation programmes are embedded in the organisation's workflow.
- Represent Learning & Participation internally at the Programming Committee and champion the Marlowe Theatre's work both regionally and nationally.
- Play a leading role in the development of our new Learning Centre, The Hive, at the forefront of contemporary practice.
- Contribute to the development of policy and play a significant role in the strategic direction of the theatre as a member of the Strategic Management Team.
- Lead and develop the team, ensuring that staff are effectively recruited, have development opportunities and are supported.
Candidate Profile
- A strategic thinker and organised planner.
- Quality‑focused.
- A great communicator and confident advocate.
- A team‑player.
- Great with young people and vulnerable individuals.
- A problem‑solver.
- Passionate about theatre, its purpose and value.
Qualifications & Experience
- Good knowledge of policy and practice in the education sector.
- Good knowledge of community arts best practice.
- Good knowledge of contemporary theatre.
- A commitment to, and good understanding of, safeguarding and health and safety procedures within a theatre environment.
- Good strategy development and project management skills.
- Advanced written and verbal communication skills.
- Good people management skills.
- Good budgeting and financial planning skills.
- Basic IT skills.
- Significant experience in learning and participation within a performing arts venue or equivalent, including roles at a senior level.
- Previous experience as a senior manager or as a member of a leadership team.
- Experience of setting and managing budgets.
Opportunity
This is an exciting opportunity to join us and help to shape the future of learning and participation at the Marlowe Theatre for a 12‑month fixed‑term. The Director of Learning & Participation plays a pivotal role in the theatre's social purpose. We currently engage with over 40,000 young people and community members a year, with 4,000 participants joining long‑term programmes focusing on depth of engagement and removing barriers to inclusion, including a thriving Youth Company, offering skills development and performance opportunities for ages 7‑17. Our programmes are oversubscribed and we know we can do more to respond to the needs of our community and young people in Kent. As a result, we are embarking on an ambitious capital project within the city walls. Our vision is to preserve, protect and re‑present the Poor Priests' Hospital, a Grade I and II listed 12th‑Century heritage building, creating a world‑class Creative Learning Centre ('The Hive') and Heritage Destination for Kent. As Director of Learning & Participation, you will be central to this work, supporting the development of an inspiring and aspirational creative learning centre for and with our young people. A strategic thinker and experienced senior leader, you will bring your passion for inclusivity and widening access to the arts to the role. With proven experience of developing strategy and delivering impactful outcomes, you will lead the Marlowe Theatre's learning and participation work through a period of evolution and growth, building on the successes of our programmes to date, as well as growing new initiatives aligned to our next business plan. You will also be a strong relationship builder, able to harness the skills and expertise across the organisation and within our strategic partnerships with local and major national companies.
Director of Learning and Participation (Interim) in Birtley employer: The Marlowe theatre
The Marlowe Theatre is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that champions creativity and community engagement. With a strong focus on professional development, employees are encouraged to grow their skills while contributing to impactful programmes that reach over 40,000 young people annually. Located in the heart of Kent, the theatre is embarking on an exciting capital project to create 'The Hive', a state-of-the-art Creative Learning Centre, making it a unique place to work for those passionate about the arts and education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Learning and Participation (Interim) in Birtley
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Get out there and connect with people in the theatre and education sectors. Attend events, workshops, or even casual meet-ups to chat about your passion for learning and participation. You never know who might have the inside scoop on opportunities!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! When you get the chance to meet potential employers or collaborators, don’t hold back. Share your ideas on strategic development and how you can enhance learning and participation at the Marlowe Theatre. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! If you see a project or initiative that excites you, reach out directly to the team involved. Express your interest and how you could contribute. This shows initiative and a genuine commitment to the theatre's mission.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We love seeing applications that come directly from passionate candidates. Make sure to highlight your experience in community arts and your vision for the Learning Centre. It’s your chance to stand out and show us what you’ve got!
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Learning and Participation (Interim) in Birtley
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific skills and experiences mentioned in the job description. We want to see how your background aligns with our mission at the Marlowe Theatre!
Showcase Your Passion:Let your enthusiasm for theatre and community engagement shine through in your written application. We love candidates who are genuinely excited about making a difference in the arts!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your writing clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that highlight your key achievements without unnecessary fluff. Remember, less is often more!
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 this exciting opportunity.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Marlowe theatre
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the Marlowe Theatre's Learning and Participation work. Familiarise yourself with their current programmes, partnerships, and the strategic goals outlined in the job description. This will show that you’re genuinely interested and ready to hit the ground running.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams and developed strategies in previous roles. Highlight your experience in managing budgets and projects, as well as your ability to foster collaboration across departments. This is key for a role that requires strong leadership and team management.
✨Communicate Passionately
As a Director of Learning and Participation, your passion for theatre and inclusivity should shine through. Be ready to discuss why you believe in the value of arts education and how you can contribute to widening access. Use specific examples from your past experiences to illustrate your commitment.
✨Engage with the Community Focus
Demonstrate your understanding of community engagement and how it relates to the role. Prepare to discuss how you would build and maintain relationships with local schools and organisations. Showing that you can connect with diverse groups will be crucial for this position.
