We are looking for enthusiastic, committed and creative people to join our friendly team and help shape the future of Clay College:

Clay College offers a two-year, full-time skills-based ceramics Diploma course, evening and weekend courses, and Masterclasses delivered by highly experienced and internationally renowned potters. In addition, the College runs a Gallery showcasing the work of leading studio potters and the work of current students.

Our mission is to develop highly skilled, self-sufficient and diverse makers by teaching practical studio pottery techniques. By doing so, we attempt to maintain and grow the status of studio ceramics in this country and beyond.

An exciting opportunity for a full-time Head of Department to join our amazing team of staff and students at Clay College Stoke.

Job Description

Clay College Stoke is a unique, independent college with an international reputation, teaching ceramic skills to the highest level in Stoke-on-Trent.
Run by professional potters, the college delivers a comprehensive two-year Diploma course to fourteen full-time students, alongside public masterclasses and evening classes for the wider ceramic community.
We are looking for a full-time Head of Department to oversee the delivery of the teaching programme, to lead and support our small team of teaching staff, to co-ordinate the running of the studio, and to support and advance our mission.
We are looking for someone who is self-motivating, pro-active and highly-organised. In return we offer a collaborative and dynamic work environment, a competitive salary, pension contributions and 25 days holiday a year plus public holidays.

Job Requirements

Our ideal candidate will be friendly, pro-active, and creative, and will have:
– commitment to high quality teaching and fostering a positive learning environment for our students.
– excellent organisational skills
– sound people management and motivational skills
– experience of budget management
– at least 5 years as a professional maker and 3 years teaching ceramics.

Job Responsibilities

– The successful running of the Diploma Course and public Evening Classes and Masterclasses in line with the College mission and the Student Contract and Code of Conduct.
– Overseeing all activities related to the delivery of the curriculum, to budget and schedule, including organising the teaching rota and studio management.
– Student progression and welfare, including regular assessments and written records and the recruitment and selection of new students.
– Promoting a friendly, open-minded and collaborative learning environment.
– Management, support and development of the teaching team, including the part-time Course Director, part-time technician and visiting teaching staff.
– Compliance with employment, charity and company law, and health and safety policies.
– Liaison with the Board of Trustees: providing reports and attending occasional Trustee Meetings.

Job Overview

  • Job Title: Head of Department
  • Salary: £40k-£50k
  • Hours: Full time
  • Artform: Crafts
  • Role: Teaching
  • Contract: Permanent
  • Closing date: Sun, 05 Apr 2026

How to Apply

Please email: mail.adoptapotter@gmail.com to request a full job description and application form.
The deadline for applications is 11pm on Sunday 5th April.

 

Equal Opportunities

Clay College strives to be an equal opportunity employer and we ask that all candidates complete our Equality Opportunities Monitoring Form along with their application. Candidates will be emailed the form at the time of their application.

Please note our building is part of a heritage site and has a set of stairs that may be inaccessible for people with mobility concerns. Please do not hesitate to contact us about your specific requirements.