Lead Practitioner of Art & Design – Secondary Academy in York (January Start)

An ambitious secondary academy in York, North Yorkshire, is seeking an imaginative Lead Practitioner of Art & Design to drive artistic rigor, portfolio curation, and faculty coaching starting in January. Job Overview This role combines expert practical studio delivery across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE Fine Art / Art, Craft & Design), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level Fine Art) with whole-faculty leadership in visual arts pedagogy. Working directly alongside senior leadership and creative arts staff, you will model evidence-based studio teaching strategies, lead staff coaching in sketchbook annotation and contextual critique, standardize internal Non-Exam Assessment (NEA) moderation, and direct the annual arts exhibition. This is a full-time, permanent contract. Key Responsibilities Model exemplary studio teaching across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5 (Fine Art, Mixed Media, and Printmaking) Lead departmental coaching and peer observations on sketchbook layout, contextual research, and technique development Standardize internal NEA assessment marks and prepare portfolios for external exam board moderation Maintain studio safety, kiln usage protocols, chemical fixative storage, and material inventories in line with COSHH Analyze progress tracking data to implement targeted portfolio clinics for borderline students Coordinate annual public exhibitions, visits to major galleries, and foundation degree portfolio workshops Role Overview & Specifications Start Date: January Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract Location: York, North Yorkshire Salary / Pay Rate: Lead Practitioner Scale (LP1–LP5 equivalent) Key Curriculum: AQA / Edexcel Fine Art Candidate Requirements Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with an honors degree in Fine Art, Visual Arts, or a related creative discipline Demonstrated track record of outstanding GCSE and A-Level Art examination and NEA outcomes Prior experience in peer coaching, curriculum innovation, or NEA moderation leadership High personal artistic standard and knowledge of contemporary/historical contextual sources An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply) How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this Lead Practitioner of Art position in York for a January start.