Head of Art

The Role

As the Head of Art, you will be at the forefront of promoting artistic excellence within a multicultural, international school community. You will be responsible for delivering a progressive, student-centered curriculum that not only fosters technical skills and creativity but also encourages students to explore and express their identities through art.

The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader with a deep appreciation for both traditional and contemporary art forms, including digital and interdisciplinary approaches. You will guide and mentor a talented team of art educators, oversee the development of engaging art programs, and ensure that the department remains at the cutting edge of art education.

In this role, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the artistic culture of the school by organizing exhibitions, leading creative projects, and building strong relationships with local and international artistic communities. You will also champion student involvement in art competitions, portfolios for higher education, and community events, inspiring students to take pride in their creative achievements.

If you are an accomplished educator and artist with a passion for empowering young learners to think critically and creatively, we invite you to apply.

The School

The school, founded in 2016, is a K-12 international school located at the foot of the picturesque and historic YuQuan Mountain, Haidian District in Beijing. The campus is 200,000 square meters of beautiful gardens that integrate natural ecology, cultural heritage, and modern beauty with 140,000 square meters of green space.

The school curriculum is organized into the Elementary School, grades K-5, the Middle School, grades 6-8, and High School, grades 9-12. Under the guidance of the Ministry of Educations nine-year compulsory education program, the curriculum is built on the strength from both Chinese and western education.

Key Responsibilities

The Head of Art will play a pivotal role in ensuring that art education is a cornerstone of the schools culture. This position combines teaching, leadership, strategic planning, and collaboration with stakeholders. Below are expanded responsibilities for the role:

1. Visionary Leadership:

• Develop and articulate a vision for art education that aligns with the schools mission and goals.
• Act as a role model for creative and innovative thinking within the school.
• Represent the Art Department at school leadership meetings, ensuring the department's initiatives align with whole-school priorities.

2. Curriculum Innovation and Development:

• Design, implement, and continuously refine the Art curriculum for various educational levels ([e.g., IB PYP/MYP/DP, IGCSE, or National curriculum]).
• Incorporate diverse art traditions, contemporary practices, and emerging technologies into lessons.
• Ensure that the curriculum encourages creativity, critical thinking, and technical skill development.

3. Fostering a Creative Environment:

• Create a supportive, inclusive, and stimulating environment where students of all abilities feel encouraged to explore and express themselves.
• Foster innovation through the integration of digital tools, such as graphic design, 3D modeling, and digital painting.
• Celebrate student achievements through exhibitions, competitions, and events within and beyond the school.

4. Teaching and Student Engagement:

• Deliver engaging and inspiring lessons to students at multiple levels.
• Provide personalized feedback and guidance to students developing their artistic skills and portfolios.
• Mentor students preparing for external examinations, university applications, and international art competitions.

5. Professional Development and Team Building:

• Support and mentor Art Department staff, identifying opportunities for professional development.
• Lead training sessions on best practices, contemporary techniques, and curriculum updates.
• Foster collaboration and idea-sharing within the department to maintain a cohesive team.

6. Resource and Facility Management:

• Oversee the maintenance and development of the schools art facilities, including studios, supplies, and digital equipment.
• Manage the departments budget effectively, prioritizing resources that enhance student learning.

7. Events and Community Outreach:

• Organize school-wide art initiatives, such as themed art weeks, interdisciplinary projects, and charity events.
• Establish partnerships with local artists, galleries, and organizations to enrich the schools art program.
• Lead the preparation of student work for local and international exhibitions and competitions.

8. Collaboration Across Departments:

• Work with other subject leaders to integrate art into interdisciplinary projects and themes.
• Support co-curricular programs and contribute to schoolwide events such as cultural festivals or open days.

9. Advocacy for Art Education:

• Champion the importance of art education to students, parents, and the wider school community.
• Stay updated with global art education trends and incorporate these insights into school practices.

10. Pastoral Care and Inclusivity:

• Provide guidance and encouragement to students facing personal or academic challenges in art.
• Ensure that the Art Department is a safe, welcoming, and inclusive space for all students.
• 
  

Qualifications & Experience

Essential:

• Degree in Art related subject
• Recognised teaching qualification B.Ed, PGCE, QTS, National Qualification, State US License. NOT TEFL/TESOL
• Extensive teaching experience across multiple educational levels.
• Demonstrated success in managing or leading an Art Department.
• An in-depth understanding of traditional and contemporary art forms.

Desirable:

• Experience working in an international school setting.
• Familiarity with emerging trends in digital art and design.
• Evidence of active engagement in professional art communities or networks.

Remuneration & Benefits

The salary and benefits package provided is highly competitive depending on the
qualifications and experiences of the successful candidate.
- Competitive base yearly salary and promotion system $53K -$65K per year
- Paid winter and summer vacations & public holidays
- Contract fulfillment bonus
- International cover health Insurance for teachers and their dependents
- Social Insurance & Medical Insurance
- Flights to school from point of origin and relocation allowance
- Visa fees are covered by the school
- Free on-campus lodging or a generous housing allowance
- Annual flight allowance
- Meals: 3 meals free for school days.
- Education for dependents (5-18 years)
- Professional development opportunities
- Rich staff activities, clubs. Excellent on-campus facilities including gym, swimming
pool, tennis court, golf driving and putting ranges, etc.

We Are Proud to Offer
- A passionate and highly talented team with a commitment to inspirational teaching.
- A fully supportive and effective governing body that is committed to furthering your
professional development.
- A beautiful school with excellent facilities including all kinds of sports venues.
- A strongly competitive salary and benefits package.