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Head of Art - Full-time

The Norton Knatchbull School, Ashford

  • Ref:KCC886-4528-376T
  • Posted:01/06/2026
  • Pay:MPS / UPS + TLR 2B
  • Start Date:September 2026
  • App Close Date:08/06/2026 at 09:00
  • Interviews:To be confirmed

Advert

 

The Norton Knatchbull School is a selective grammar school with a proud history dating back to 1630. We combine strong traditional values with a forward-looking approach, creating a vibrant learning environment where students develop into confident, considerate, and well-rounded individuals.

Art plays a central role in the creative life of the school. Our department supports students from Year 7 through to A Level, encouraging creativity, technical skill, and individual expression.

We are seeking an exceptional Head of Art to lead our established department. This is an exciting opportunity for a passionate practitioner to shape the future direction of Art at NKS. The successful candidate will be an inspiring teacher, creative leader, and strong advocate for the arts. The ability to teach across a range of specialisms, including photography, would be advantageous but is not essential.

Key responsibilities include:

  • Leading and developing the Art curriculum across all key stages
  • Teaching high-quality lessons up to and including A Level
  • Driving strong outcomes through excellent teaching and learning
  • Expanding extracurricular provision, including clubs and exhibitions
  • Managing resources and supporting colleagues’ development
  • Promoting Art across the wider life of the school

We are looking for:

  • An innovative practitioner with strong subject knowledge
  • The ability to teach A Level Art to a high standard
  • Excellent communication, organisation, and leadership skills
  • A commitment to nurturing creativity and confidence in young people
  • Experience in exhibitions or enrichment activities (desirable)

Why join us?

  • A supportive environment with excellent CPD opportunities
  • Staff wellbeing initiatives, including Benenden Health membership
  • A diverse and inclusive school community
  • Dedicated Art facilities, including a Sixth Form studio
  • Strong support for creative enrichment beyond the classroom

For applicants currently teaching, one referee should be your current Headteacher.

Application deadline: 9 a.m. Monday 8 June 2026


Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. We reserve the right to interview early.

NKS is committed to professional development and equality of opportunity. We support staff through training, coaching, and mentoring, and value ambition and initiative. Our inclusive culture is reflected in our Race Charter Mark and UK Feminista Silver accreditation.

We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.

 

Information about the school

The Norton Knatchbull School is a popular and highly regarded selective school for boys aged 11-18 which admits a growing number of girls into its sixth form. Having proudly served the local community of Ashford in Kent since the 17th century, they combine traditional values with a forward-looking and vibrant learning environment where young people are nurtured to become considerate, confident and well-rounded individuals.

Job Contact Information

  • Name:Catriona Dunton
  • Address:Hythe Road, Ashford, Kent, TN24 0QJ
  • Telephone: 01233 620045
  • Email: cdunton@nks.kent.sch.uk

Documents

Below are documents that have been added to this vacancy.

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We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all our students. You are advised that this post is subject to the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order 1975 (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2020 and therefore this post is subject to an Enhanced Disclosure Application to the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). Please be aware that schools are also required to undertake online recruitment checks on shortlisted candidates under changes to Keeping Children Safe in Education.