Position Summary

We are seeking an experienced and visionary leader to guide our accredited training and education programs. The Head of Circus Studies will play a crucial role in shaping the next generation of circus performers while maintaining NICA's position as a leader in circus arts education.

Key Responsibilities

Educational Leadership

Teach high-level circus skills in the Bachelor of Circus Arts program

Lead and manage a team of education professionals

Develop, implement, and evaluate curriculum and training programs

Ensure compliance with educational standards and requirements

Apply contemporary learning pedagogies and technologies

Monitor and evaluate student progress and program effectiveness

Program Management

Plan, coordinate, and oversee the delivery of circus arts education programs

Implement industry best practices in circus training and safety

Develop and maintain program documentation and assessment tools

Ensure compliance with educational regulations and quality standards

Manage educational resources and facilities

Industry Engagement

Establish and maintain national and international partnerships

Build relationships with circus training providers worldwide

Engage and coordinate with guest circus artists and trainers

Represent NICA at industry events and forums

Stay current with industry trends and developments

Team Leadership

Mentor and support teaching staff

Foster a collaborative and innovative teaching environment

Coordinate professional development opportunities

Manage staff performance and development

Contribute to strategic planning and organizational growth

Required Qualifications

Significant experience in circus arts education or related performing arts field

Demonstrated expertise in circus skills training and pedagogy

Proven leadership experience in an educational setting

Relevant tertiary qualifications in education, performing arts, or related field

Strong understanding of contemporary circus arts industry

Experience in curriculum development and assessment

Desired Attributes

Vision for the future of circus arts education

Excellence in team leadership and management

Strong communication and interpersonal skills

Commitment to innovation in teaching and learning

Understanding of risk management in physical training

International perspective on circus arts training

Additional Requirements

Valid working rights in Australia

Current First Aid certification

Working with Children Check

Ability to work flexible hours including evenings and weekends as required

Benefits

Competitive salary package

Professional development opportunities

Opportunity to shape the future of circus arts education in Australia

Collaborative and creative work environment

How to Apply

Please submit:

Current CV

Professional Statement addressing the Key Selection Criteria

Evidence of working rights in Australia

Send applications to: people&culture@nica.com.au

About Us

NICA comes from humble beginnings in an un-renovated warehouse in Melbourne’s Docklands, wherein, a pilot national training project commenced in 1999. All eight participants of the project graduated in 2001 with a Diploma of Circus Arts from Swinburne University and found employment with Australian companies the following year.

The organisation has grown significantly since, having attained accreditation for the delivery of Certificate IV in Circus Arts, and training artists to meet the demands of the growing local and global circus arts industry.

NICA is a national not-for-profit arts training institute and registered cultural organisation, primarily funded by the Australian Government through the Department of Communications and the Arts. We are one of eight elite arts training organisations that comprise the Arts8, and members of the Federation of European Circus Schools (FEDEC).

As well as providing professional tertiary education, NICA offers a wide range of recreational courses for children to adults, operates a premier circus talent agency, NICA Represents, and supports the circus industry through professional development opportunities and masterclasses.