The posting
We are looking to appoint a positive and skilled Deputy Curriculum Leader of Art and Photography who has the vision and ambition to support the Curriculum Leader in leading a talented and successful department. The successful candidate will have excellent subject knowledge and be able to motivate students through inspirational, personalised teaching. This is an excellent opportunity for a talented teacher to join a thriving school and work with students who are committed to their learning and passionate about their development.
Art plays a crucial part of our students’ development. The enjoyment of the subject is evident in every classroom and the exceptional quality of work produced is seen all around the school through displayed and showcased artwork.
The opportunity for personal development and progression at Arden is enormous. An active commitment to staff development through a strong and consistent focus and dialogue around teaching & learning pedagogy makes this an ideal position for candidates committed to being the best practitioner they can be.
Middle Leader development continues to be a core focus of our school and our Trust. We run a highly regarded Middle Leader development training programme across the trust where our Middle Leaders work with Senior Leaders from across the Trust and Middle Leader colleagues in all of our schools to collaborate, consider aspects of leadership, and share best practice. Excellent line management ensures this position is well supported and that Middle Leaders are given every opportunity to develop and showcase their drive and leadership skills.
Art & Photography at both GCSE and A Level are popular subjects with excellent results. At the heart of the reason for our excellent recruitment to the subject is our commitment to delivering engaging learning across all Key Stages; our Art curriculum does not stand still and is continually adapting to ensure it is relevant and matches the needs of our students. The ability to teach Art to GCSE is essential and delivering to A Level in Art and/or Photography is desirable.
In every way the Art & Photography Department mirrors the aims and beliefs of the school. All staff work hard, supported by a committed leadership team, to provide a safe and encouraging environment for learning. Arden students love to acquire new knowledge and skills. Our teachers relish the opportunity to deliver engaging, challenging lessons to committed students, supported by caring families.
The department currently has three full time and one part-time members of staff. It has a wealth of experienced teachers who all work well together. The department collectively provide an excellent level of support and collaborative development through sharing of best practice and an open-door culture.
The school has an excellent record of success at GCSE and A Level:
GCSEs - In summer 2026, the school’s Progress 8 score was +0.70 (internally calculated), with an Attainment 8 score of 59.06, which shows the excellent attainment of our school. 71% of our students achieved a grade 5 in both English and Maths, with 85% achieving this at grade 4. More than 42% of the GCSE grades awarded were grade 7 and above, with 25.3% being awarded at grade 8 & 9.
A Levels - In 2026 students achieved an average grade of a B. Our average points score of 39.01 demonstrates the excellent outcomes that our students achieve. 35.7% of grades awarded were A*/A and 65% of grades awarded were A*- B.
In return we can offer you:
A positive and innovative learning culture supported by students, staff, parents and governors.
Enthusiastic students who enjoy learning and engage positively in all aspects of school life.
Access to high quality continuing professional development and the opportunity for personal growth and development.
A collaborative and supportive attitude amongst staff which promotes a sense of teamwork and unity.
Commitment to Middle Leader Development through:
Middle Leader cross trust training
Middle Leader support through highly effective Line Manager
A Senior Leadership team who are committed to promoting the best environment and outcomes for staff and students.
Use of your own personal laptop.
Teacher Pension.
Cycle to Work scheme.
Free on-site parking.
Children of staff who are permanently employed at Arden Academy are eligible for a ‘staff’ priority for Arden main school and Sixth Form admissions (please see Admissions on our school website for full details and eligibility criteria).
Arden Academy Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all its staff and volunteers to share this commitment. We welcome applications regardless of age, gender, ethnicity, sexuality or religion. The successful applicant will be required to undertake an Enhanced DBS Disclosure and, in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education, will be subject to a social media online search.
