What does an art teacher do?
Art teachers educate students in visual arts, helping them develop creative skills, technical techniques, and an understanding of artistic expression. They teach subjects such as drawing, painting, sculpture, design, and art history, while encouraging creativity, critical thinking, and confidence. Art teachers plan lessons, assess student work, and create inclusive learning environments that support individual artistic development.Art teacher jobs are commonly found in primary and secondary schools, specialist art schools, community education settings, and private studios. Some art teachers also combine teaching with professional art practice or curriculum leadership roles
Is a career as an art teacher right for me?
An art teacher career may suit you if you enjoy working with young people and have a strong interest in visual arts. Skills and attributes important for this role include:
- creativity and artistic ability
- strong communication and interpersonal skills
- patience and adaptability
- organisation and lesson planning skills
- the ability to inspire and motivate learners
- understanding of different learning styles.
How to become an art teacher
If you are exploring how to become an art teacher, the typical pathway in Australia involves completing an approved teaching qualification with a focus on visual arts, followed by teacher registration. This usually includes completing a bachelor's degree in education specialising in art, or a visual arts degree followed by a postgraduate teaching qualification.
Teacher registration requirements vary by state and territory and may include supervised teaching placements, background checks, and ongoing professional development.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways into art teaching depending on your prior study and career goals.
View UniSQ’s Education and Teaching and Creative Arts degrees.
Average salary per week
$2166
Future demand
Stable
Industries
Related careers
Source: yourcareer.gov.au
© Commonwealth of Australia
Art teacher FAQ's
What are the key art teacher qualifications?
Art teacher qualifications typically include a bachelor's degree in education with a visual arts specialisation, or a visual arts degree combined with a recognised teaching qualification. Registration with the relevant teacher regulatory authority is required to teach in schools.
What art teacher jobs are available?
Art teacher jobs include classroom teaching roles in primary and secondary schools, specialist art instruction, private tuition, community education programs, and curriculum or subject leadership positions.
How long does it take to become an art teacher?
A bachelor's teaching degree typically takes around four years of full-time study. Students who complete a visual arts degree first may then undertake a postgraduate teaching qualification, which can add additional study time depending on the pathway chosen.
Is an art teacher career a good choice?
An art teacher career can be highly rewarding for those passionate about education and creative expression. Art teachers play an important role in developing students’ creativity, confidence, and cultural understanding across diverse learning environments.
What does an art teacher do day to day?
An art teacher’s day may involve lesson preparation, delivering practical and theory-based classes, assessing student work, providing feedback, and supporting students’ creative development through structured and exploratory activities.
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