Visual Arts Teacher - A reputed school (A/O Level)

Job Description: Teacher of Visual Arts (A-Level/IGCSE - Cambridge Curriculum)

Role Overview
We are seeking a passionate and creative Teacher of Visual Arts to join our dynamic department. The successful candidate will teach Visual Arts at both IGCSE and A-Level (Cambridge Curriculum) to students aged 16-18, helping them develop their artistic skills, critical thinking, and appreciation for the visual arts. The role requires a commitment to delivering engaging, inspiring, and challenging lessons that encourage students to express themselves creatively while developing their technical skills.

Key Responsibilities

Classroom Teaching

• Teach Visual Arts at IGCSE and A-Level, providing engaging, innovative, and student-centered lessons across a range of artistic disciplines (e.g., painting, sculpture, digital media, photography, printmaking).
• Deliver lessons that foster creativity, critical thinking, and independent exploration of art, inspiring students to push their artistic boundaries and achieve excellence.
• Plan and deliver lessons in accordance with the schools curriculum, ensuring that content is adapted to meet the diverse needs of students, including those with SEND, EAL, and those who are ‘more able’.
• Set and maintain high expectations for student performance, behavior, and engagement, creating a supportive and stimulating classroom environment.
• Encourage the exploration of different artistic techniques, media, and methods, providing students with the tools to refine their skills and develop a personal style.
• Continuously assess and evaluate student progress through formative and summative assessment, providing constructive feedback to promote further development.
• Foster an atmosphere of creative risk-taking and experimentation while emphasizing the importance of technique and discipline.

Assessment & Reporting

• Take responsibility for the ongoing attainment, progress, and final outcomes of students.
• Mark and assess students’ work regularly in accordance with the school’s marking policy, offering constructive feedback to support reflection and improvement.
• Write academic reports according to the school’s schedule, providing detailed feedback on students' artistic progress and achievements.
• Attend Parent-Teacher meetings to discuss student progress, and communicate effectively with parents regarding their child’s development in the Visual Arts.
• Use assessment data to inform lesson planning, ensuring that teaching is differentiated to support all students’ learning needs.

Wider Professional Responsibilities

• Collaborate with colleagues within the Visual Arts Department to share best practices, resources, and ideas to enhance the teaching of Visual Arts.
• Assist with extra-curricular activities, such as art exhibitions, workshops, trips, and after-school art clubs, as directed by the Head of Department.
• Provide cover teaching for colleagues within the department and across the school when needed.
• Participate in staff development opportunities, including the school’s induction, performance management, and appraisal processes.
• Support the development of super-curricular activities, including student-led projects and community art initiatives.

Pastoral and Co-Curricular

• Play an active role in the pastoral life of the school, supporting students’ emotional and social development.
• Act as a Personal Tutor for a group of students, offering guidance, support, and mentorship throughout their academic journey.
• Contribute to the wider co-curricular life of the school, including art-related clubs, exhibitions, and trips.
• Encourage students to build their confidence and resilience, both in their artistic endeavors and personal growth.

Person Specification

Qualifications and Experience

• A good honours degree in Visual Arts, Fine Arts, or a closely related subject (applications from final-year university students are welcome).
• Proven experience teaching Visual Arts at IGCSE and/or A-Level in the Cambridge curriculum, with a strong understanding of the subject content and assessment requirements.
• A teaching qualification (PGCE, QTS, or equivalent) is desirable, but not essential.
• A strong portfolio of personal artistic work and a passion for the visual arts.

Skills and Abilities

• Extensive subject knowledge in a variety of art forms (e.g., painting, drawing, sculpture, photography, digital media) and the ability to teach and inspire students across these areas.
• The ability to plan and deliver stimulating lessons that promote creativity, critical thinking, and technical proficiency in the visual arts.
• Strong skills in assessment and feedback, providing constructive critique to help students refine their skills and deepen their understanding of art.
• Proficiency in using ICT tools to enhance the learning experience, including art software, digital photography equipment, and online resources.
• Strong organizational skills with the ability to manage classroom projects, deadlines, and exhibitions effectively.

Personal Attributes

• Excellent communication skills (oral and written), with the ability to foster a positive and supportive classroom environment.
• A professional yet caring and compassionate approach to working with students, with a focus on their individual needs and artistic development.
• Enthusiasm for the subject and a commitment to developing students’ potential in the visual arts.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a collaborative team.
• Strong interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
• Flexibility and willingness to contribute to school-wide activities and extra-curricular programs.

Additional Requirements

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of students.
• Willingness to participate in extracurricular activities, including art exhibitions, workshops, and school trips.
• Availability to work some evenings and weekends for art-related events, such as gallery exhibitions, parents’ evenings, and school functions.