Are you a passionate artist and educator with the vision to lead a thriving department? Cranleigh School is seeking an inspiring Head of Art to join our vibrant boarding community from September 2026.
We are looking for a candidate who does more than teach; we want a leader who conveys genuine expertise and passion, delivering lessons that spark lifelong creativity. You will head a department characterised by a close-knit, collaborative atmosphere, where innovation is encouraged and student success is celebrated.
Key Areas of Responsibility
Academic Leadership
● Excellence in Teaching: Deliver high-standard instruction across all year groups.
● Higher Education Guidance: Lead the preparation of portfolios and write references for students pursuing Art foundation courses and university degrees.
● Strategic Growth: Drive the evolution of teaching and learning within the department and contribute to whole-school strategy at Heads of Department meetings.
Team Management
● Cultivate Culture: Foster a supportive, collective environment where staff feel confident to trial new initiatives.
● Mentorship: Line manage the Art Technician and oversee the development of PGCE and Early Career Teachers (ECTs).
● Professional Growth: Conduct work scrutinies and lesson observations to maintain the highest standards of pedagogy and professional development.
Creative Operations & Administration
● Exhibitions & Display: Mastermind the GCSE and A-level Summer Exhibitions, the Midyear Lower Sixth Exhibition, and curate student work across the school and boarding houses.
● Enrichment: Organise gallery trips, workshops, and visits from professional artists to broaden student horizons.
● Departmental Management: Oversee budgets, resources, and annual risk assessments.
● Admissions & Awards: Lead the Art Award assessment process (scholarships) and run workshops for prospective Prep school students.
The Boarding School Life
At Cranleigh School, education extends beyond the classroom. The successful candidate will be fully immersed in our community, serving as a Tutor within a Boarding House and contributing to our extensive co-curricular programme. This role offers the unique opportunity to mentor students’ personal growth as well as their artistic talent.
Cranleigh offers a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits.
For further details about the role and to apply, please visit our website:
Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application (no more than one side of A4), together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button on the website) as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am 6th February 2026. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised.
Cranleigh School recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.
All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.