Head of Art

Loretto School is a leading independent boarding and day school located on the outskirts of Edinburgh.  We seek an enthusiastic and passionate Head of Art who is committed to the quality of learning and teaching and to providing an engaging and inspiring experience for the pupils.  The successful applicant will be able to deliver the subject to GCSE, and A-level standard, and will be a teacher who understands the importance of this role as well as the broader task of conveying interest and passion for the subject in the classroom. This is a full time permanent position.You will lead a supportive and committed Art department. We aim to offer pupils an exciting curriculum and a broad range of extra-curricular opportunities within a safe, secure and encouraging environment. Our department is extremely popular with a highly creative and engaged body of pupils who are passionate about art and design. We have a high uptake at GCSE and offer both Art and History of Art at A-level.We welcome applications from candidates who can offer experiences in any area of Art and Design.You will be expected to possess the following qualities:a passion for teaching Art and an ability to share this with pupilsa high level of academic qualification in this subjectthe ability to plan, prepare and deliver creative and challenging lessons to all age groupsthe confidence to use innovative teaching methods that enhance learning and teachingthe creativity to produce resources which contribute to teaching and departmental developmentgood organisational skills and punctualitywillingness to work as part of a team and to share ideas with colleaguesTo be considered for the role, you will need to be GTCS registered, or be able to become registered. You will need to be: A subject specialist with an ability to teach to GCSE and A-Level standard;Passionate about the subject with the skills to enthuse our highly ambitious pupils;A confident and highly effective classroom teacher, sensitive to pupils’ needs and with high expectations of what can be achieved; andA team player who is capable of working closely with the rest of the department.Loretto operates for seven days a week in term time (with lessons Monday to Friday and Saturday Enrichment) and all members of staff have broader roles in the pastoral care of children and the extra-curricular life of the school.  The successful candidate will be a tutor to around ten tutees and will also undertake an evening duty in a boarding house once a week.Loretto is a busy and vibrant boarding school and applicants should be excited about working in an environment where staff are fully committed in term time.Loretto children are friendly, engaging and eager to learn.  Musselburgh, on the eastern edge of Edinburgh, is a terrific location to work.  The city with its rich culture is on the doorstep and the countryside and East Lothian coastline lie to the east.In addition to your basic salary, the benefits of working with the School include:Bike to work schemeFamily friendly policiesEmployee Assistance programme,Fee remission for staff with children at the schoolAnnual review and opportunities for training and continued professional developmentOpportunities for involvement in the wider school communityWe aim to attract and retain a diverse group of talented people, who are committed to upholding the school's ethos. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we welcome applications from all sections of the community.This is a permanent, full-time post.  Loretto has its own salary scale and salary will be determined by experience and aptitude for the role.  There is also a fee remission for staff with children at the School.ApplicationWe welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates who are excited at the prospect of making a positive difference.  Alternatively, if you would like to arrange for an informal discussion please email HR@Loretto.com.Closing Date: Friday 2nd February 2024 at 4.00pm (GMT)Interview ProcedureIt is anticipated that the first-round interviews will be conducted by the Vicegerent and the Assistant Head (Academic). Candidates who advance to the short list will be interviewed in school by the Headmaster and other senior staff.The School is committed to equal opportunities for all its pupils and staff.Loretto is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. Loretto meets the requirements in respect of exempted questions under the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974, all applicants who are offered employment will be subject to Disclosure Scotland Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme checks before the appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands or final warnings, as well as convictions. The cost of this application will be met by the School. Annually, every member of staff at the School is required to undergo, complete, and sign to confirm that they have received child protection training and will uphold it.About LorettoLoretto is that school. Founded in 1827, located in a spacious campus just outside Edinburgh, we are one of the UK’s leading independent coeducational schools, for both boarding and day school pupils. Traditional and innovative educational methods, first-class facilities and the advantages offered by a small school all combine to provide a uniquely rounded learning experience for girls and boys.Our emphasis on the whole person is really what sets us apart. From day one, Loretto’s Founder was dedicated to blending academic excellence with a wealth of experiences beyond the classroom.By helping girls and boys to excel in mind, body and spirit, we aim to help them unlock and realise their full potential.Today’s staff and pupils are living proof of the clear benefits offered by that ethos. Being a small school enables us to share our big heart and ambition, and offer big opportunities for our young people.Also reflecting Loretto’s commitment to help bring out the best in all, are our high standards of teaching and a diverse yet rigorous curriculum.The enormous range of co-curricular activities we offer away from the classroom ensures that each pupil can grow and develop wherever their interests and talents may lie.The School’s achievements in music, art and drama and our strong reputation in sporting endeavours – rugby, hockey, cricket, lacrosse and golf to name just a few – are both testament to that.