Head of ADT and Creative Learning

About the School - Downsend - Main:
Downsend is an innovative and forward-thinking independent school with a new vision; to inspire a generation to embrace the future shaping incredible people who will make change in our world.

At Downsend we prepare our young people for the future with a creative and problem-solving approach. We think big we celebrate innovation and we never hold back.

We are delighted to announce that all four schools in the Downsend family have been judged to be excellent in all areas by the Independent School Inspectorate.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Head of Art Design & Technology and Creative Learning to join our fantastic team.

About Cognita:
Cognita is a global leader in independent education. Founded in 2004 we are a growing community of 90 schools in 21 countries - in Europe North America Latin America Asia and the Middle East - serving more than 100000 students. Each of our schools are proudly unique however our collective purpose is to create an environment where everyone can Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.

At Cognita we know every student is unique. We nurture their distinct personalities and strengths. We support them academically socially and emotionally wherever they are in the world wherever theyre starting from. And each and every one of our schools is unique too.

We protect whats special about them while offering them rich knowledge opportunities and best practices. And they get to be part of something bigger. We open their classrooms to the collective wisdom of 90 schools in 21 countries ensuring every child gets an education thats quite literally world class.

Its an individual approach that empowers every school teacher and student to focus on what they do best and thrive.

About the Role:
As Head of ADT and Creative Learning you will lead and champion Art Design and Technology across the school including resistant materials textiles and food and nutrition. Working closely with the Heads of School you will shape and deliver an ambitious highquality ADT curriculum from Key Stage 3 to Key Stage 5 while ensuring strong continuity from Key Stage 2.

Alongside departmental leadership you will play a key role in embedding the schools vision for creative learning as an essential future skill. You will manage and inspire a dedicated team of teachers and technical staff oversee enrichment opportunities such as competitions and scholarships and contribute actively to the wider life of the school through cocurricular and crosscurricular initiatives.

This is a permanent full-time role with an anticipated start date in September 2026.

To view our full Role Profile click here.

Who We Are Looking For:
You are an exceptional and dynamic teacher with experience of teaching GCSE and Alevel ADT and a proven ability to lead and motivate others. You bring excellent organisational and communication skills a calm and confident leadership presence and a genuine passion for creativity in learning. Committed to professional development and high standards you thrive in a collaborative environment and inspire pupils and colleagues alike.

Benefits at Cognita:
*Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience
*Enrolment in Teachers Pension Scheme
*Free lunch provided during Term Time
*School holidays and public holidays
*Free parking on site (subject to availability)
*School fee discount
*Exclusive third-party discounts
*Ongoing professional development

How to Apply:
Complete this application before the closing date: Sunday 17th May 2026.

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks including an enhanced DBS check. Our Safeguarding and Child Protection Policy is available on the school website. Details on Recruitment of Ex-Offenders is included within the Application Guidance.

We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.

Early applications are encouraged we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to closing date for the right applicant.