Head of Art

HEAD OF ART - Required for September 2022

Cumnor House Sussex is looking for an inspirational, ambitious and successful Head of Art to run our already outstanding Art Department. Cumnor House is a school rightly known for the warmth and strength of its community, the breadth and depth of its educational provision, and its positive and supportive culture, all of which is encapsulated in our motto, “Aim High, Be Kind, Dare to be Different”.

We have a very strong reputation for art, and a history of securing numerous awards, prizes and scholarships over many years. We are seeking a full-time artist/qualified teacher with the experience and imagination to make the most of our talented pupils, excellent facilities and beautiful grounds, while contributing to the wider Cumnor Community.  

Overarching responsibilities: 

The Head of the Art (HoA) is expected to make the subject central to the life of the school as a whole as much as within the Art Studio; to work in cooperation and communication with the Art Assistant, other teachers and the DoCR ensuring an outstanding program and provision for all pupils, including cross-curricular activities.

Desirable Qualities and Experience

• A good degree in Fine Art or other relevant Art degree

• Qualified Teacher Status is essential

• Skill in planning and teaching inspiring lessons across age and ability ranges

• Proven ability to inspire, encourage and teach pupils effectively

• Sensitivity to the needs of all pupils and an ability to adapt teaching methods

• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to delegate to the Art Assistant

• Confidence in nurturing Scholarship candidates to meet or exceed expectations of senior schools

• Willingness to share outstanding practice with other staff

• Share a creative and enthusiastic approach to cross-curricular opportunities 

• Clear practical vision of the future of the Art Department

• Willingness to contribute to the wider Prep School curriculum and community

• Ability to communicate warmly, positively and authentically with parents about their child’s progress and potential

• Maintain a positive, flexible and good-humoured approach

• Consistently exhibit high standards of conduct including punctuality, professional appearance and discretion

• Empathy with the Cumnor principles, and the ethos and aims of independent education.

Remuneration and Benefits

• Cumnor is in a position to offer an outstanding remuneration package, in line with experience and qualifications, and this will be discussed at interview.

• Substantial remission on fees for Staff children attending the School or Nursery

• Generous contributory pension scheme

• Free on-site parking

• Complimentary dining and refreshments available all day during term time

• Free use of swimming pool at specified times

• Occupational sick pay scheme

Application Process and Safeguarding

To apply, please complete our application form (which can be found on our website) and submit it with a covering letter by Friday 20th May to hr@cumnor.co.uk

Interviews of selected applicants will be held the following week, with a view to a decision being made by 27th May, and would involve a visit to the School. We reserve the right to make an appointment at any time prior to the closing date. If you would like to make enquiries, please call Teresa Mockridge on 01825 790347.

Cumnor House Sussex is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. An offer of employment will be subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure, satisfactory safeguarding interview and pre-employment references, verification of ID, medical fitness and relevant qualifications, and other security checks including Overseas and Teachers Barred lists.

Cumnor Principles:  “Aim High, Be Kind and Dare to be Different”

1. Children First: The happiness and well-being of each child is of paramount importance; in all decision-making, the impact upon children is considered first. We are ambitious for every child in our care. Children are offered a fully rounded education within a community that values the concept of childhood.

2. Care is Widespread: Cumnor is non-selective and both embraces and supports a diversity of interest, ability, background and outcome. We aim to be sympathetic, empathetic and professional in our relationship with children, staff and parents.

3. Community Values: We act in partnership with other school communities – both state and independent. We keep in mind our local community as well as wider environmental issues and encourage children in similar thinking. Old Cumnorians are seen as a valued part of our community.

4. Communication Matters: We seek to communicate clearly and without favour, respecting and valuing the opinion of others.

5. Core Strength: We aim for the highest standards of professional performance and behaviour supported by these principles. We seek to develop ourselves through appraisal and CPD to be excellent teachers.