Associate Dean of Learning, Teaching and Inclusion

Salary: Competitive, commensurate with experience

Shape the Future of Excellence and Equity in Performing Arts Education

Bird College is seeking an exceptional individual to lead our learning, teaching and inclusion agenda at a time of exciting transformation and ambition. As Head of Learning, Teaching and Inclusion, you will play a pivotal leadership role in ensuring that our teaching practice remains world-class, inclusive, and student-centered —reflecting the diverse and dynamic world of the performing arts.

This is a rare opportunity to influence pedagogy, shape inclusive curriculum design, and champion student voice within one of the UK’s leading conservatoires for dance and musical theatre.

About the Role

• Lead strategic development and implementation of learning, teaching and inclusion initiatives across all higher education provision.
• Champion inclusive, anti-oppressive pedagogies, curriculum decolonisation, and innovative teaching practice.
• Drive staff development aligned with the UK Professional Standards Framework (UKPSF), fostering a culture of reflection, collaboration, and scholarly teaching.
• Embed student voice in all aspects of academic enhancement, curriculum design, and quality assurance.
• Provide leadership on equality, diversity and inclusion (EDI) in learning and teaching, working in alignment with the College’s Access and Participation Plan (APP).
• Ensure alignment with relevant sector frameworks (QAA, UKPSF, Subject Benchmark Statements, OfS conditions).

About You

• A deep commitment to inclusive, student-centred learning.
• Experience in curriculum design, quality assurance, and pedagogic development within a creative or performing arts context.
• A track record of implementing strategic change in learning and teaching.
• Understanding of sector frameworks including the UKPSF, QAA Quality Code, and APPs.
• The ability to foster cross-disciplinary collaboration, inspire innovation, and center diverse learner voices.

Why Bird College?

At Bird College, we are passionate about shaping the next generation of artists, performers, educators, and creative leaders. We pride ourselves on excellence in teaching and on creating a welcoming, inclusive community where every student can thrive and belong. This is your opportunity to lead learning and inclusion at the heart of a world-renowned performing arts institution.

How to Apply

For further details of this position please click on the ‘Apply’ button above.

Interviews: Monday 11^th August 2025

Start Date: Autumn 2025 or by mutual agreement.

For further information or to arrange an informal conversation about the role, please contact Kerensa at hr@birdcollege.co.uk.

Bird College is committed to diversity, equity and inclusion. We welcome applications from individuals of all backgrounds and particularly encourage those from groups underrepresented in higher education leadership.

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