Director of Visual Arts
About This Role
The Department
Art
The Art program at Dunottar School is both ambitious and exceptionally successful. Key Stage 3 students are instructed in mixed ability groups, engaging with a wide variety of practical and conceptual concepts through various projects. At the GCSE level, students adhere to the AQA specification for art, craft, and design, as well as fine art. For A Level, students follow the AQA specification in their selected endorsement, which currently encompasses art, craft and design, fine art, and photography. In recent years, all students applying for arts degree programs have received unconditional offers.
Art holds a core status at Dunottar. The department motivates all students to investigate various materials, media, processes, and techniques. Co-curricular activities include an art club for KS3 students of all abilities, as well as opportunities for our art scholars. Students in GCSE and A Level programs have access to art studios during lunch and after school, and trips to galleries and other points of interest are considered integral to the Visual Arts education at the school.
Three-Dimensional Design (3D Design D&T)
3D Design (D&T) is taught on a rotational basis in KS3 to engage students and introduce them to the subject. The 3D Design workshop and CAD (computer-aided design) suite are equipped with the latest workshop machinery, tools, and CAM (computer-aided manufacturing) technology, including a laser cutter, 3D printer, and CNC (computer numerical control) router.
In KS3, students are introduced to 3D Design while also developing their graphic communication abilities through CAD/CAM, electronic textiles (e-textiles), user-centered design, design communication skills, model making, and metalworking.
At Key Stage 4, students follow the OCR GCSE specification for 3D Design. In Year 10, they spend the initial two terms enhancing their design, CAD/CAM, and practical skills, building upon their Key Stage 3 foundation and drawing inspiration from product designers and architects. Following Easter, students commence their NEA (non-exam assessment) coursework portfolio. Past projects have included lighting, storage solutions, architectural design, furniture design, jewelry, and product design. Students have access to an array of materials, such as polymers, natural and man-made timber, metal, plaster, concrete, and glass (including stained glass and glass-fusing).
The ideal candidate for the Director of Visual Arts will possess a strong enthusiasm for advancing the Visual Arts department and sharing effective practices. They will actively participate in the diverse co-curricular program at the school, both during the week and on some weekends.
The Role
We seek to appoint a highly motivated and effective Director of Visual Arts to lead the department in delivering exceptional teaching and learning, inspiring and empowering our students to reach their fullest potential. The Director of Visual Arts will play a crucial role in shaping and guiding the Visual Arts Department, bringing a strategic vision to elevate the department to the next level. This individual will nurture a love for creativity and artistic expression, contributing to the school’s dedication to educational excellence and the development of well-rounded individuals. We are looking for a Director of Visual Arts with a specialization in Art, and the associated teaching responsibilities will reflect this area of expertise.
In this role, the Director of Visual Arts will be tasked with advancing Visual Arts at Dunottar, ensuring excellence in both the Art and 3D Design (D&T) departments. As an accomplished and seasoned leader, you will be responsible for maintaining a high-quality teaching and learning environment throughout the department, ensuring that our students receive outstanding support and an education that inspires their creative talents and achievements.