VACANCY | Curatorial Assistant: Education and Public Programming

WE’RE HIRING!

Job Title: Curatorial Assistant: Education and Public Programming

Department: Curatorial Department, Javett Art Centre at the University of Pretoria 

Reports to: Curator: Education and Public Programming

Job Status: Full-Time 

Compensation: Competitive, dependent on experience 

SUMMARY

The Curatorial Assistant: Education & Public Programming is a new role at Javett-UP and provides support to the Curator: Education and Public Programmes and works closely with the curatorial team of the art centre. The role involves assisting in the development and delivery of dynamic and innovative public programmes and educational activities, resources, public engagement initiatives, and community programmes. The role directly liaises with educators, schools, community organisations, artists, and internal stakeholders to ensure the smooth execution of education and public programming, contributing to meaningful visitor experiences and engagement with exhibitions and collections. 

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY 

• Assist with the planning, organisation, and delivery of education and public engagement programmes for a variety of audiences.
• Prepare materials and resources for workshops, tours, and events.
• Support the facilitation of programmes on-site and off-site.
• Conduct research to assist in developing educational content linked to exhibitions and collections.
• Support the creation of curriculum-aligned resources for schools (Grade R–12).
• Assist in maintaining relationships with schools, teachers, community groups, and partner organisations.
• Help coordinate and lead group visits and ensure a positive visitor experience.
• Maintain and update programme calendars and schedules.
• Track attendance, feedback forms, and assist in preparing reports for internal use and stakeholders.
• Support in drafting or proofreading content for public programmes and education initiatives.
• Liaise with the communications team to promote programmes.
• Assist with basic financial tracking and reconciling programme-related expenses.
• Provide support in the coordination of volunteers, interns, and temporary staff during programmes and events.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the Curator: Education & Public Programme and the Curatorial Director and provide support to curatorial projects initiated within the curatorial department.
• Support programme and activities in both formal and informal contexts, inside and outside of the art centre.

EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor’s degree (or equivalent) in Visual Arts, Art History, Museum Studies, Education, or a related field.

• Ability to work collaboratively in a team environment.

• Proficiency in MS Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint) and basic digital tools.

• Language proficiency of at least two local languages.

• Working/teaching/internship experience of art subjects within an art gallery, museum, educational or cultural institutions. 

SPECIALISED KNOWLEDGE AND COMPETENCIES

• Strong organisational and time management skills.

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines.

• Familiarity with public programming and/or educational activities in an arts context.

• Knowledge of South African school curricula and education systems (advantageous).

• Experience with community engagement projects.

• Programme coordination.

• Research and resource development.

• Administrative and logistical support.

• Strong interpersonal skills.

• Creative thinking and problem-solving.

• Attention to detail and accuracy.

• Ability to work under pressure in a fast-paced environment.

• Knowledge of artmaking processes and techniques. 

KEY ATTRIBUTES

The ideal candidate is sharp, organised, and proactive, with meticulous attention to detail and a genuine passion for art education and art public programming. They should be an excellent communicator - both written and verbal. They are nurturing, social and curious, and are passionate about creating positive environments  for learning and sharing. They are able to bring together diverse stakeholders. They should be able to work well independently and collaboratively, approaching challenges with a calm, solutions-oriented mindset. Flexible and dependable, they are willing to assist during after-hours programmes.

APPLICATION PROCESS

Applicants are requested to submit applications to [email protected] with the Subject Line: Application for Vacancy: Javett-UP Curatorial Assistant: Education and Public Programming

In applying for this post, please attach: 

• Brief expression of interest letter; 

• A comprehensive CV; 

• Certified copies of qualification/s; 

• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact. 

No application will be considered if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements. 

DEADLINE FOR APPLICATIONS

16 October 2025 at 5pm. 

PLEASE NOTE

Shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by Javett-UP management.

Should you not hear from Javett-UP within 3 weeks of submitting your application, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful. 

Javett-UP is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of Javett-UP and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates who are from under-represented designated groups.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The Javett-UP reserves the right to not fill the advertised position.