At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Art department, inspire creativity, and shape a skills-rich curriculum for boys aged 7-13.
- Company: Wetherby Preparatory School, part of the global Inspired Education group.
- Benefits: Full-time permanent role with opportunities for professional development and creative expression.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on young artists and nurture their creativity in a supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Passion for teaching, strong experience at KS2/KS3, and willingness to learn ceramics.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team dedicated to fostering creativity and excellence in education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Join to apply for the Head of Art role at Wetherby Preparatory School
Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 121 premium private schools spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.
Wetherby Preparatory School is an independent boys’ preparatory school (ages 7 – 13) of 350 boys in Marylebone, London. Wetherby prepares its pupils for many of the top day and boarding senior schools in the country and works at a level above National Curriculum expectations.
ROLE SUMMARY
Wetherby Prep seeks an inspiring and dynamic Head of Art to lead the Art department, teach boys in Years 3–8, shape a skills-rich curriculum, nurture creativity, and champion the visual arts across the school. This is a full-time, permanent position starting in January 2026.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
- Lead the vision and strategic direction for Art across Years 3–8.
- Design and deliver a broad curriculum covering drawing, painting, printmaking, sculpture, mixed media, and basic ceramics.
- Ensure progression of skills and knowledge at each stage, including preparation for senior school scholarships (11+/13+).
- Deliver engaging and challenging lessons that inspire creativity in pupils of all abilities.
- Differentiate effectively to support and extend learning.
- Introduce pupils to ceramics (pinch pots, slab building, wheel throwing); no prior experience required – training provided, but willingness to learn is essential.
- Oversee resources, studio spaces, and departmental budget.
- Organise exhibitions, competitions, and enrichment opportunities within and beyond school.
- Build partnerships with galleries, visiting artists, and the wider community.
- Run and support art clubs, workshops, and co-curricular activities.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE
- A passion for teaching and a commitment to nurturing creativity.
- Strong teaching experience at KS2 and/or KS3.
- Ability to inspire, motivate, and engage pupils of all abilities.
- Reflective, collaborative, and well-organised approach.
- Willingness to learn and apply ceramics techniques.
- Experience of leading a subject or department is desirable.
- Experience in preparing pupils for art scholarships is desirable.
SAFEGUARDING
Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
APPLICATION
Please download complete the Inspired Education Application Form, and submit with your application. Visit our careers site for more information: https://jobs.inspirededu.com
Seniority level
- Director
Employment type
- Full-time
Job function
- Design, Art/Creative, and Information Technology
- Industries: Primary and Secondary Education
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Head of Art employer: Wetherby Preparatory School
Contact Detail:
Wetherby Preparatory School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Art
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend art exhibitions, and connect with people in the education sector. You never know who might have a lead on your dream job!
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your creativity! Prepare a portfolio that highlights your best work and teaching methods. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their school.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings; reach out directly to schools you admire. Express your interest in working with them and share how you can contribute to their art programme.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Art
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When you're writing your application, let your passion for art and teaching shine through. We want to see how you inspire creativity in your students and how you plan to lead the Art department at Wetherby Prep.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to tailor your application to the specific role of Head of Art. Highlight your experience with KS2 and KS3, and don’t forget to mention any relevant skills or experiences that align with the responsibilities listed in the job description.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. We appreciate well-structured applications that are easy to read. Use bullet points if necessary to make your key achievements stand out!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through our careers site! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, you’ll find all the info you need about the role and our school there.
How to prepare for a job interview at Wetherby Preparatory School
✨Know Your Art Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the current art curriculum for Years 3–8. Be ready to discuss how you would design and deliver engaging lessons that cover a range of techniques, from drawing to ceramics. Show your passion for nurturing creativity and how you can inspire boys of all abilities.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Art, you'll need to lead the department effectively. Prepare examples of how you've previously led a subject or department, focusing on your strategic vision and how you've motivated both students and staff. Highlight any experience you have in organising exhibitions or partnerships with galleries.
✨Demonstrate Your Commitment to Safeguarding
Wetherby Preparatory School places a strong emphasis on safeguarding. Be prepared to discuss your understanding of safeguarding practices and how you would ensure a safe and supportive environment for all pupils. This shows that you share their commitment to the welfare of children.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street! Think of insightful questions to ask about the school's vision for the arts, opportunities for professional development, or how they support art clubs and co-curricular activities. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you.