Cranbrook School is seeking an outstanding and creative leader to lead our Visual Arts Department.
ABOUT THE POSITION
This is a full-time position based at the Senior School campus in Bellevue Hill.
The Head of Department – Visual Arts is responsible for leading and managing the Visual Arts Department as well as establishing and leading a vibrant cultural centre for the School community, providing strategic direction and creative leadership across the School’s exhibitions and visual arts programs.
The role will be offered as a permanent appointment to our teaching staff, reporting to the Deputy Head of Senior School (Academics).
ABOUT YOU
You have demonstrated experience building partnerships with exhibitions, museums, universities or cultural institutions, together with a track record in exhibition programming and event management applied in ways that facilitate and enhance teaching and learning.
You have led diverse teams of educators and creatives, with a proven capacity to implement and assess educational programs, and you build strong, collaborative relationships with students, staff, parents and the wider School community.
You are an excellent written and verbal communicator who is well organised and demonstrates a robust commitment to ongoing professional development.
SELECTION CRITERIA
- Demonstrated experience building partnerships with exhibitions, museums, universities or cultural institutions, including a deep understanding of NESA curriculum requirements and standards
- Demonstrated experience in exhibition programming and event management, applied in ways that facilitate and enhance teaching and learning
- Experience leading diverse teams of educators and creatives with a proven capacity to implement and assess educational programs
- Experience establishing or leading a cultural centre or exhibition program is desirable, ideally combined with experience as an educator
- Sound judgement in recommending resources and managing budgetary requirements
- An active professional arts practice is desirable
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills
- Sound knowledge of, and ability to apply, work health and safety (WHS) policies and procedures relevant to exhibition operations
- A firm commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
- A demonstrated understanding of child safety and appropriate behaviours when engaging with children
- Current Working With Children Check (WWCC) – NSW, or willingness to obtain prior to commencement
HOW TO APPLY Applications should include a resume and a cover letter addressing the selection criteria and reasons for your interest in the position. Applications should be submitted via email to
[email protected].
Details of at least three referees and statements of service will be requested from the successful applicant.
CLOSING DATE: Monday, 28 October 2026
ABOUT CRANBROOK SCHOOL
Founded in 1918, Cranbrook School is a multi-campus Anglican independent day and boarding school for students in Pre-School to Year 12.
In 2026, the School welcomed girls into Years 7 and 11, with full coeducation across the campus by 2029.
Guided by its enduring vision to be a world-class school that nurtures and enables every student to fulfil their potential and thrive, Cranbrook offers a values-led education enriched by academic excellence and extensive sporting and co-curricular opportunities. The School’s motto, esse quam videri – “to be, rather than to seem to be” – underpins its commitment to authenticity, character and service. This well-rounded educational approach provides an educational experience that celebrates each individual and prepares every Cranbrookian for a purposeful life of contribution within and beyond the School gates.
Overlooking Sydney Harbour and set on approximately 13 hectares in one of Sydney's most prestigious eastern suburbs, the School currently educates over 1,800 students across four campuses: two Pre-Schools – St Michael's and St Mark's – a Junior School campus in Rose Bay, and the Senior School Campus in Bellevue Hill. The School's two Boarding Houses provide care and accommodation for 75 students from Years 7 to 12.
Cranbrook School is a child safe organisation. We actively promote the safety and wellbeing of all students and are committed to protecting our students from abuse and harm.
WORKING WITH CHILDREN CHECK AND WORKING RIGHTS The successful applicant for this position will be required to hold a current NSW Working with Children Check clearance. Applicants must be an Australian citizen or permanent resident or hold a visa with appropriate working rights.
📌 HEAD OF DEPARTMENT – VISUAL ARTS (Bellevue Hill)
🏢 Cranbrook School
📍 Bellevue Hill