Art Technician

The Department

Art at Dunottar School is ambitious, creative and highly successful. Pupils in Key Stage 3 are taught in mixed-ability groups and engage with a broad range of practical, technical and conceptual projects that foster creativity, independence and confidence. At GCSE, students follow the AQA Art, Craft and Design and Fine Art specifications, while at A Level they study their chosen AQA endorsement, currently including Art, Craft and Design and Fine Art. In recent years, all students applying for degree courses in the arts have received unconditional offers.

Art is a valued and thriving subject within the school, with pupils encouraged to experiment with a wide variety of materials, media, processes and techniques. The department offers an extensive co-curricular programme, including a KS3 Art Club open to all students, opportunities for Art Scholars, and supervised access to the studios for GCSE and A Level students during lunchtimes and after school. Educational visits to galleries, exhibitions and other places of artistic interest form an important part of the Visual Arts experience.

The department enjoys strong uptake at both GCSE and A Level, with courses spanning Fine Art, Textiles and Three-Dimensional Design. Through a combination of excellent facilities, enriching opportunities and outstanding outcomes, the department provides an inspiring environment in which students can develop their artistic potential and pursue their creative ambitions.

The Role

This appointment is a technical position supporting the Director of Visual Arts with the smooth running of the department. The successful applicant will work closely with teaching staff and be responsible for maintaining stock levels of materials, equipment and resources. An art-based degree or similar qualification is desirable.

The role is 0.52 FTE, equivalent to 25 hours per week during term time, typically 9.00am to 3.00pm, with a one-hour unpaid lunch break. There may be some flexibility around the working pattern, which can be discussed at interview. Some additional flexibility will be required to work before the start and after the end of school terms, as well as on INSET days when required.  This position may suit an art graduate or someone interested in pursuing a pathway into Art teaching through United Teaching.

Key Responsibilities

• Support the delivery of the Art and Design curriculum by preparing materials, equipment and resources for lessons and practical activities.

• Provide technical and practical assistance to staff and students during lessons, independent study sessions and extra-curricular activities.

• Run a weekly Key Stage 3 Art Club and support students in developing and refining their creative work.

• Prepare specialist materials and equipment for a wide range of art processes, including ceramics, sculpture, printmaking and textiles.

• Maintain Art Department facilities, equipment and resources, ensuring they are clean, safe, well organised and in good working order.

• Manage the storage of materials, equipment and student artwork, including the safe archiving and distribution of examination work and sketchbooks.

• Monitor stock levels, carry out regular stock checks and place orders in a timely and cost-effective manner, working within the department budget.

• Maintain departmental calendars and assist with the planning and organisation of key events, exhibitions, workshops and educational visits.

• Coordinate displays and exhibitions within the department and around the school, including supporting the annual Art Exhibition.

• Assist with the planning and production of online art assemblies.

• Prepare displays and resources for Open Evenings, Open Mornings and other school events, promoting the work of the department to parents and visitors.

• Manage the department's social media presence and contribute to promotional materials and digital content where required.

• Organise visiting artists and workshops and assist with the administration of educational visits and enrichment activities.

• Support school productions and events through the creation of props, costumes, displays and other artistic contributions as appropriate.

• Help to maintain accurate health and safety records, including COSHH documentation and risk assessments, and promote safe working practices at all times.

• Liaise with maintenance and support staff to ensure departmental facilities remain safe, functional and well maintained.

• Use Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Outlook, Excel and PowerPoint, to support departmental administration.

• Attend relevant training and professional development activities to maintain and develop technical knowledge and skills.

• Undertake any other duties reasonably required by the Director of Visual Arts that are commensurate with the nature and grade of the post.

• Safeguard and promote the welfare of pupils in accordance with the school's safeguarding and child protection policies and procedures.

This is not intended to be all-inclusive, and the post holder may perform other duties reasonably required by the Headmaster. 

The School reserves the right to make an appointment at any stage during the recruitment process.