Compare courses from top Australian unis, TAFEs and other training organisations.
Explore Careers
Find A Course
Job Tips
How to Become An Art Teacher
What is a Art Teacher
An Art Teacher plays a vital role in nurturing creativity and artistic expression among students of all ages. They work in various educational settings, from primary schools to private institutions, where they inspire students to explore their artistic talents. By teaching a range of techniques and mediums, Art Teachers help students develop their skills in drawing, painting, sculpture, and more, fostering a love for the arts that can last a lifetime.
In their day-to-day responsibilities, Art Teachers design engaging lesson plans that cater to the diverse needs of their students. They prepare and present instructional materials that cover both the theory and practical aspects of art. This includes demonstrating techniques, guiding students through projects, and providing constructive feedback to help them improve. Additionally, Art Teachers assess student progress and adapt their teaching methods to ensure that each student can thrive in a supportive environment.
Beyond the classroom, Art Teachers often organise exhibitions or performances to showcase their students’ work, allowing young artists to gain confidence and recognition for their efforts. They also stay current with developments in the art world by attending workshops and professional conferences, ensuring that their teaching remains relevant and inspiring. This commitment to continuous learning not only enhances their own skills but also enriches the educational experience they provide to their students.
Overall, a career as an Art Teacher is both fulfilling and impactful. It offers the opportunity to shape the next generation of artists while fostering a creative community. For those passionate about art and education, this career path provides a unique platform to inspire and cultivate talent, making a lasting difference in the lives of students.
Career Outlook for Art Teacher
Becoming an art teacher is a fulfilling career choice for those passionate about creativity and education. The median age of art teachers is around 46 years, reflecting a mature workforce that brings a wealth of experience to the classroom. Art teachers typically work part-time, with about 77% of them engaged in part-time roles, and they often work an average of 41 hours per week. Employment can be either permanent or casual, depending on the institution and the specific role. The field is predominantly female, with women making up approximately 80% of the workforce.
In terms of job security, the unemployment rate for art teachers is relatively low, indicating a stable demand for educators in the arts. However, the sector has seen a slight decline in annual employment growth, with a decrease of about 300 positions reported recently. Despite this, the future outlook for art teachers remains positive, as schools continue to recognise the importance of arts education in fostering creativity and critical thinking skills among students. As educational institutions adapt to changing curricula, there may be new opportunities for art teachers to innovate and inspire the next generation of artists.
On this Article
Introduction
Average Salaries
Resources
Steps to Become an Art Teacher
Step 1
The journey to becoming an art teacher begins with obtaining a relevant educational qualification. Most art teachers hold at least a bachelor’s degree in fine arts, art education, or a related field. This foundational education provides aspiring teachers with essential knowledge in art history, techniques, and pedagogy. Many universities offer specialised programs that combine art and education, equipping future teachers with both artistic skills and teaching methodologies. Pursuing a degree not only enhances artistic abilities but also prepares individuals for the diverse challenges of teaching art to students of various ages.
Step 2
Practical experience is crucial for aspiring art teachers. This can be achieved through internships, volunteer opportunities, or part-time positions in educational settings. Engaging with students in a classroom environment allows future teachers to develop their teaching style, understand classroom dynamics, and learn how to effectively communicate artistic concepts. Many education programs include student-teaching components, where individuals can gain hands-on experience under the guidance of experienced educators. This step is invaluable in building confidence and competence in teaching art.
Step 3
In Australia, obtaining a teaching certification is a vital step for those wishing to teach in public schools. This typically involves completing a postgraduate qualification in education, such as a Graduate Diploma of Education or a Master of Teaching. These programs often require candidates to complete additional coursework in educational theory and practice, as well as supervised teaching placements. Certification ensures that art teachers are well-prepared to meet the educational standards and requirements set by the state or territory in which they wish to teach.
Step 4
Creating a personal art portfolio is an essential step for aspiring art teachers. This portfolio showcases an individual’s artistic skills, creativity, and versatility in various mediums. It serves as a visual representation of the teacher’s abilities and can be a powerful tool during job applications and interviews. A well-curated portfolio not only highlights personal achievements but also demonstrates a commitment to the art form, inspiring students and showcasing the teacher’s unique artistic voice.
Step 5
Once the necessary qualifications and experience have been obtained, aspiring art teachers can begin applying for positions in schools, community centres, or private institutions. Crafting a compelling resume and cover letter that emphasises relevant experience, educational background, and artistic achievements is crucial. Networking with other educators and attending job fairs can also provide valuable opportunities to connect with potential employers. The job market for art teachers can be competitive, but with determination and a strong application, individuals can find fulfilling positions that allow them to share their passion for art with students.
Step 6
Art education is an ever-evolving field, and ongoing professional development is essential for art teachers. Engaging in workshops, attending conferences, and pursuing further education can help teachers stay current with new techniques, technologies, and educational practices. This commitment to lifelong learning not only enhances personal skills but also enriches the learning experience for students. By continually developing their expertise, art teachers can inspire creativity and innovation in their classrooms.
Step 7
As an art teacher, creating a supportive and inspiring learning environment is key to encouraging student creativity. This involves developing lesson plans that cater to diverse learning styles, providing constructive feedback, and fostering a culture of experimentation and exploration. By nurturing students’ artistic talents and encouraging self-expression, art teachers play a vital role in their students’ personal and artistic growth. A positive and engaging classroom atmosphere can significantly enhance students’ appreciation for art and their willingness to explore their creative potential.
Becoming an art teacher is a rewarding career path that allows individuals to share their passion for art while inspiring the next generation of artists. With the right education, experience, and dedication, aspiring art teachers can embark on a fulfilling journey that combines creativity with education.
What does an Art Teacher do?
An Art Teacher plays a vital role in nurturing creativity and artistic expression among students of all ages. Each day, they design engaging lesson plans tailored to individual and group needs, covering various art techniques and historical contexts. They prepare and present materials that inspire students, demonstrating practical skills with a range of mediums, from painting to sculpture. Assessment is a key part of their role, as they provide constructive feedback and encouragement, helping students refine their artistic abilities. Additionally, Art Teachers stay current with trends in the art world by attending workshops and collaborating with peers, ensuring their teaching methods remain fresh and relevant. They may also organise exhibitions to showcase students’ work, fostering a sense of pride and accomplishment in their artistic journeys.
Tasks
Art teachers play a vital role in nurturing creativity and artistic expression among students of all ages. They inspire learners to explore various art forms, techniques, and mediums, fostering a love for the arts while developing essential skills. Whether working in schools or private settings, art teachers design engaging lessons that encourage students to express themselves and appreciate the world of art.
- Plans programmes of study for individual students and groups – Develops tailored lesson plans that cater to the diverse needs and interests of students.
- Prepares and presents material on the theory of the subject area – Delivers lectures and discussions on art history, techniques, and concepts.
- Instructs and demonstrates practical aspects of the subject area – Guides students in using various art materials and techniques through hands-on demonstrations.
- Assigns problems and exercises relative to students’ training needs and talents – Creates assignments that challenge students while considering their individual skill levels.
- Assesses students and offers advice, criticism, and encouragement – Evaluates student work and provides constructive feedback to support their artistic growth.
- Revises curricula, course content, course materials, and methods of instruction – Continuously updates teaching materials and methods to enhance learning outcomes.
- Prepares students for examinations, performances, and assessments – Helps students get ready for art-related evaluations and showcases.
- Keeps abreast of developments in the subject area – Engages in professional development through conferences, seminars, and literature to stay current in the field.
- May arrange visits and tours to professional exhibitions and performances – Organises field trips to art galleries and events to enrich students’ learning experiences.
- May organise exhibitions or performances of students’ work – Coordinates events to showcase students’ artistic achievements to the community.
Skills for Success
To thrive as an Art Teacher, a blend of creative and educational skills is essential. A strong foundation in various art techniques and mediums, such as painting, drawing, and sculpture, is crucial for effectively instructing students. Additionally, an understanding of art history and theory allows teachers to provide context and depth to their lessons. Beyond artistic skills, effective communication and interpersonal abilities are vital, as Art Teachers must engage and inspire students of diverse backgrounds and skill levels. They should also possess strong organisational skills to plan lessons, assess student progress, and manage classroom dynamics.
Moreover, adaptability and a commitment to continuous learning are important traits for an Art Teacher. The ability to revise curricula and incorporate new artistic trends or technologies can enhance the learning experience. Participation in professional development opportunities, such as workshops and conferences, helps teachers stay current in their field. Ultimately, a passion for art and education, combined with these skills, empowers Art Teachers to foster creativity and self-expression in their students, making a lasting impact on their artistic journeys.
Skills & Attributes
- Strong communication skills
- Creativity and artistic ability
- Knowledge of art history and techniques
- Ability to develop engaging lesson plans
- Patience and adaptability
- Strong organisational skills
- Experience with various art mediums and tools
- Ability to assess and provide constructive feedback
- Passion for teaching and inspiring students
- Commitment to ongoing professional development
- Ability to foster a positive and inclusive classroom environment
- Collaboration skills for working with other educators
Average Salaries
The average annual salary for a Art Teacher in Australia is around $72,129 but this varies based on qualifications and experience, so this number is only an estimation of current data.
max $99 K
av $72 K
Resources For Art Teachers
Related Searches
Career FAQs markets a range of courses from leading Australian tertiary education providers, and receives a commission from them for each prospective student.
© Career FAQs 2025