Develop the practice. Connect students with industry. Help the next generation of designers find their voice.
Good Graphic Design education should feel connected to the industry students want to enter.
It should give them space to experiment, challenge ideas and develop their own visual identity, while also helping them understand briefs, clients, professional standards and what it takes to build a creative career.
As our HE Graphic Design Lecturer, you’ll help create that experience and act as the course leader for our Higher Level courses.
You’ll teach primarily across our Higher Education Graphic Design provision, alongside some Level 3 teaching. You’ll help students develop sophisticated portfolios, stronger creative judgement and the confidence to progress into employment, freelance practice or further study.
This is a Lecturer A role, so you’ll also have the opportunity to help shape and develop the HE Graphic Design offer, bringing your professional experience, ideas and industry relationships into the curriculum.
What you'll do
- Teach primarily across HE Graphic Design, with some Level 3 delivery.
- Help students develop strong creative portfolios and professional confidence.
- Bring contemporary Graphic Design practice into learning.
- Develop live briefs and professional projects with industry partners.
- Build relationships with designers, studios, agencies and creative organisations.
- Support students preparing for employment, freelance practice or further study.
- Maintain high expectations for attendance, engagement and professional standards.
- Assess work and provide clear, constructive feedback.
- Help strengthen progression from Level 3 into Higher Education.
- Contribute to the development of the HE Graphic Design offer.
- Support exhibitions, end-of-year shows, open events and recruitment activity.
What you’ll bring
- A relevant degree or postgraduate qualification in Graphic Design, Visual Communication or a related discipline.
- Experience teaching Graphic Design or a closely related creative subject.
- Experience in Higher Education and/or Further Education.
- Strong contemporary knowledge of Graphic Design and visual communication.
- Experience supporting students to develop professional portfolios.
- Current industry knowledge and professional awareness.
- Strong communication, organisation and assessment skills.
- Professional Graphic Design experience or an active creative practice would be valuable.
- Strong industry relationships or networks would be a real advantage.
- A recognised teaching qualification, or willingness to work towards one where appropriate.
- Creatively credible. You know contemporary Graphic Design and can bring professional practice into learning.
- Ambitious. You want students to produce work they’re proud to show the industry.
- Industry-connected. You use professional relationships to create meaningful opportunities.
- Clear. You give feedback that helps students develop stronger ideas and better work.
- Curious. You keep up with changes in design, technology and creative practice.
- Supportive. You help students grow in confidence while keeping expectations high.
- Collaborative. You want to be part of an ambitious Creative Arts community.
- Professionally focused. You want students ready for the world beyond college.
- You’ll need an enhanced DBS check. If you get the job, we’ll do this for you.
- You’re committed to safeguarding and inclusion.
- You can work across college sites and external locations where required.
- You’re flexible and happy to support exhibitions, open events and wider Creative Arts activity.
- You’re committed to maintaining current professional and subject knowledge.
Why work with us?
- Generous annual leave entitlement, including bank holidays, depending on your role
- Family-friendly leave policies
- 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme
- Medicash healthcare plan
- Occupational health support
- Confidential counselling
- Specsavers eye test vouchers
- A culture where people look out for each other
- Local Government Pension Scheme
- Salary sacrifice schemes, including Cycle to Work and buy tech
- Railcard and Tusker Green Car Scheme
- Local and national discount schemes
- Ongoing professional development
- Opportunities to build experience across apprenticeships, employer engagement and learner support
- Opportunities to step up, specialise or move across college teams
- Leadership pathways
HE Graphic Design Lecturer in Wigan employer: Wigan & Leigh College
Wigan & Leigh College is an exceptional employer that prioritises the growth and well-being of its staff while making a significant impact on the community. With a supportive work culture, generous benefits including a comprehensive healthcare plan and pension schemes, and clear pathways for professional development, employees are empowered to thrive both personally and professionally. Join us in shaping the futures of our students in a vibrant environment where your contributions truly change lives.
