Caitlin Smith

I am a recent postgraduate, having obtained high merit in my Visual Practice MFA and first-class honours in my Bachelor’s degree; I have worked with an array of students, ranging from KS3 and 4 to university and mature students, teaching elements of Fine Art through both practical and theory-based avenues, as well as providing support through SEN specialist curriculum.

As an artist, I aim to disrupt and extinguish the prevailing prerogatives of society’s patriarchal paradigm and resist the social conditioning of the so-called gender normative positions, “masculine” and “feminine”; as a teacher, I aim to alleviate the stress academia can bring to students and help them thrive as they embark on their academic journey.

I have always expressed an empathic and understanding attitude toward students with and without extenuating circumstances and have provided any necessary adjustments. As well as supporting students with mental health such as anxiety, depression & BPD, I have also worked alongside students who have ADHD, autism, and additional needs, aiding them in recognising that tasks that may initially seem daunting can be tackled; it is feasible, and they do not have to do so on their own.

I want to cultivate an ideology that allows space for everyone, with no prejudice or judgement. I want to support students and see them assiduously seek out their aspirations and goals. I believe in providing a space where students can express rather than repress themselves. The world can already be quite an oppressive experience for a lot of individuals, so if I can provide a space of respite for students to progress in their studies, I will.