Downside School - Artist in Residence

Somerset
Downside School
Full-time

Summary

We are currently seeking to fill the position of Artist in Residence.

Detail

Artist in Residence 2025/26

A committed, practicing Artist in Residence is selected annually to work at Downside School to be an artistic and creative presence and to inspire our pupils and staff, whilst having the opportunity to continue practicing art in our excellent facilities.

This is an exciting opportunity for an inspiring Artist, who is passionate both about Art and about helping young people to develop their artistic potential. You will possess the drive and determination to support a thriving Art Department, in a school which has a flourishing creative arts tradition. This is an exciting prospect for either a postgraduate or an experienced Artist.

There are two main studios in the Art department, plus a few smaller studios for specialist artwork. There is use of Adobe suite, a kiln and print studio.

It is essential that you are an effective team member, who is willing to support the Art Department in terms of technical support in timetabled lessons and in running workshops throughout the week. The main duties for this role will be to provide practical and technical support in Art, both inside and outside of lessons and activities and to assist Art staff with the display of student work within the school and online. Candidates will need to be flexible as the demands will vary throughout the school year. The timetabling for the Artist in Residence will include protected time for their own artistic endeavours which we hope will be inspirational to our pupils.

We are looking for someone who:

Has portfolio evidence of a high quality of artistic work.
Has a relevant University degree or equivalent experience in Art.
Is passionate about working with children in an educational setting.
Is committed to their own professional development.
Will embrace our Catholic, Benedictine ethos.
Is confident with the ability to motivate and enthuse students and work collaboratively with colleagues.

We can offer:

Complimentary food available daily for Breakfast, Lunch and Supper during the School terms
Single occupancy accommodation
Studio space in which to develop your own work
A term time only role (plus Inset days), working 35 weeks per year
A free employee assistance programme and on-site parking
Supportive, skilled, and innovative staff team
Pupils with highly developed social skills and self-confidence
Plenty of opportunities for CPD, and pastoral and wider-curricular involvement

Contractual Details

Salary: The post is accommodated (single occupancy residence) and has a pro-rated salary of £16,228.45 per annum for working 35 weeks (term-time plus Inset days) over a fixed term, 10-month contract.

Hours: Full time during term time, from the 27 August 2025 until the 26 June 2026, with Independent School holiday breaks. You will work 40 hours across 6 days per week including the weekend and some evenings during the academic terms (34 weeks). The post holder will be required to work flexibly to ensure proper performance of duties, this will include evening and weekend work.

How to Apply

For further information please visit our website at Downside School Opportunities - Downside School

Closing date for applications: Friday 9th May 2025 (midnight)

Interviews will take place in person at Downside School on Tuesday 20th May 2025.

All applications must include a link to a portfolio of work that can be viewed as part of the selection process.

Please be aware that we may interview before the closing date, so an early application is advised.

Downside School is an independent, co-educational boarding and day school for pupils aged 11 to 18, and one of Englands oldest and most distinguished Catholic schools. We are situated at the foot of the Mendip Hills, twelve miles south of the city of Bath. This is an exciting prospect for a graduate with an interest in entering the teaching profession or who is looking for professional experience before following a career outside education.

Downside School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be DBS checked. We strive to be an equal opportunities employer.

Registered Company No. 11751009 and Registered Charity No: 1184700