Head of Art

Head of Department - Art

Location: Birmingham

Contract: Temporary to permanent

Start date: April 2026

Salary: M4 - UPS3 plus TLR 2 (£3,527)

This is a high-performing, values-driven secondary school in Birmingham, serving around 600 pupils and recognised for its strong academic outcomes, calm and purposeful culture, and unwavering commitment to character education. The school is part of a highly regarded, multi award-winning trust, known nationally for educational excellence and strong leadership. Together, they offer an environment where high expectations sit alongside a supportive and inclusive ethos, enabling both students and staff to thrive, with professional development, collaboration and shared ambition at the heart of the culture.

Key Responsibilities

As Subject Lead, you will provide strong and inspiring leadership within your subject area, driving high standards of teaching, learning and achievement. You will:

• Lead the strategic development of your subject, ensuring a coherent, ambitious and well-sequenced curriculum that supports progression for all learners
• Work closely with senior leaders to contribute to school improvement planning, self-evaluation and the wider educational vision
• Support, coach and challenge colleagues to secure consistently high-quality teaching and learning across the department
• Use attainment data and evidence-informed practice to monitor performance, identify priorities and implement targeted interventions
• Lead on curriculum planning, assessment and reporting, ensuring alignment with current specifications and best practice
• Line manage and appraise staff where required, setting high expectations and supporting professional development
• Develop effective transition arrangements, particularly between primary and secondary phases
• Champion inclusive practice, ensuring the needs of disadvantaged students, those with SEND and high-attaining learners are met
• Promote enrichment and extra-curricular opportunities that enhance students' engagement and enjoyment of the subject
• Build positive relationships with students, parents, colleagues and external partners to support achievement and aspiration

The Ideal Candidate Will Have

We are looking for an ambitious and reflective practitioner who is ready to take on a key leadership role. The successful candidate will demonstrate:

• A relevant degree and Qualified Teacher Status
• A proven track record of delivering high-quality teaching and securing strong student outcomes
• Strong subject knowledge, with the ability to teach to GCSE level (and A Level where applicable)
• Experience of using data effectively to inform planning, intervention and improvement
• The ability to coach, mentor and motivate colleagues to improve practice and outcomes
• A clear vision for outstanding subject provision and the ability to lead change effectively
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the capacity to build positive professional relationships
• A strong commitment to inclusion, high expectations and removing barriers to learning
• Resilience, professionalism and a commitment to continuous professional development
• A willingness to contribute to the wider life of the school, including enrichment activities

Huntress does not discriminate on the grounds of age, race, gender, disability, creed or sexual orientation and complies with all relevant UK legislation. PLEASE NOTE! You should make yourself aware of how immigration laws apply to your situation before applying for any jobs. We are acting as a Recruitment Agency in relation to this role.