Art teacher
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. You may be well suited to this field if you have creativity and artistic ability, an ability to inspire and motivate learners, and an interest in understanding different learning styles and educational needs.
Other skills and attributes important for this role include:
An ability to manage change positively and perform effectively in changing environments.
Clear written and verbal communication skills, supported by strong interpersonal skills.
Creative expression, storytelling and original thinking.
Effective time-management and prioritisation skills.
The ability to build positive relationships and support others effectively.
How to become an art teacher?
If you are exploring how to become an art teacher, there are a few different study pathways you can take in Australia. Some aspiring art teachers choose to complete a teaching degree with a visual arts specialisation, while others first study visual arts or a related discipline before undertaking a postgraduate teaching qualification. The specific pathway you choose will depend on your interests, qualifications and career goals.
After completing an approved teaching qualification, you will need to meet the teacher registration requirements in your state or territory. Depending on the jurisdiction, this may include supervised professional experience placements, background checks and ongoing professional development requirements.
Every journey to study is individual, and there are several pathways into art teaching depending on your prior study and career goals. Here is one common path to become an art teacher:
- Complete a recognised initial teacher education degree with a visual arts specialisation, including professional experience placements in school settings.
- Meet the requirements for teacher registration in the state or territory where you intend to teach.
- Graduate with the knowledge and skills to teach visual arts, support student learning and create engaging classroom experiences.
- Apply for art teacher positions in government, independent or faith-based secondary schools.
- Begin your career inspiring young people to develop their creativity, artistic skills and appreciation of the visual arts.
Accreditation and qualifications
An art teacher in Australia typically needs a recognised teaching qualification with a visual arts specialisation, teacher registration, and strong creative and artistic skills.
UniSQ offers accredited secondary teaching degrees with a music teaching area, such as the Bachelor of Education (Secondary) and the Master of Learning and Teaching (Secondary), that lead to eligibility for teacher registration.
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.
Start your journey with UniSQ
Prepare for a career as an art teacher with a UniSQ education degree and develop the creative, teaching and communication skills needed to inspire the next generation of artists and learners.
Responsibilities and work settings
Planning and preparing visual arts lessons and learning activities.
Delivering practical and theory-based classes across a range of artistic mediums and techniques.
Demonstrating artistic processes, tools and creative methods to students.
Assessing student work and monitoring progress against learning outcomes.
Providing constructive feedback to support student growth and development.
Encouraging creativity, self-expression and critical thinking through visual arts.
Managing classroom resources, materials and equipment safely and effectively.
Supporting students' creative development through structured and exploratory learning experiences.
Primary and secondary schools
Arts and creative organisations
Museums, galleries and heritage institutions
Universities and higher education providers
Non-profit, charity and community organisations
Early learning and childcare providers
Art teacher FAQs
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