Principal – London Academy of Dravidian Arts (LADA)

Malayalee Association of the UK (MAUK); Greater London; On-site; GBP 80,000 - 100,000; Full time

Job summary

A community arts organization is seeking an experienced Principal to lead the London Academy of Dravidian Arts (LADA). This full-time role involves artistic direction, management, and community engagement for a specialist weekend arts academy. The ideal candidate will possess strong leadership, communication, and organizational skills, along with a deep understanding of Dravidian arts. The position offers a salary starting from £34,000 annually and requires a commitment to fostering creativity and collaboration in a diverse environment.

Qualifications

• Experience in arts education or arts organisation management.
• Strong leadership and communication skills.
• Understanding of health and safety responsibilities.
• Experience applying school management strategies.

Responsibilities

• Oversee day-to-day operations of the academy.
• Ensure smooth delivery of classes and events.
• Monitor and support teaching quality.
• Manage scheduling, staffing, and budgeting.

Skills

Leadership skills

Organisational skills

Communication skills

Knowledge of Dravidian arts

Relationship building

Education

Relevant degree in arts, education or management

Job description

About the Role

The Malayalee Association of the UK (MAUK) invites applications for a passionate, experienced and forward‑thinking Principal to lead the London Academy of Dravidian Arts (LADA) — a specialist weekend performing arts academy dedicated to preserving, teaching and promoting the rich heritage of Dravidian classical and contemporary art forms including dance, music, drama and martial arts. Although LADA operates primarily on weekends the Principal role is a full‑time leadership post (37.5 hours) responsible for year‑round artistic direction, academy management, project delivery, performance planning, staff development, safeguarding, administration and community engagement. This is a rare opportunity to shape a growing arts academy with deep cultural roots and an ambitious vision for the future.

Leadership and Operations

• Oversee the day-to-day running of the academy including weekend and evening activities.
• Ensure classes, rehearsals, assessments and events are delivered smoothly.
• Lead on safeguarding, health and safety and quality standards.
• Support teachers with timetables, resources and classroom needs.
• Manage student enquiries, admissions, attendance and records.

Quality and Curriculum

• Monitor teaching quality and support staff to maintain high standards.
• Coordinate assessments, exams and student progress reviews.
• Help improve and update lesson plans and activity programmes.
• Encourage opportunities for creativity, performance and skill development.

Community and Engagement

• Build strong relationships with students, parents, teachers and volunteers.
• Represent the academy at internal events, showcases and community programmes.
• Promote a positive and inclusive learning environment.
• Prospective applicants are welcome to arrange a visit to LADA by appointment.

Administration and Planning

• Manage scheduling, staffing, budgets and resource allocation.
• Lead on event planning including performances, festivals and presentations.
• Prepare reports, development plans and updates for MAUK leadership.
• Support recruitment of teachers and volunteers.

Development and Growth

• Help shape the long‑term vision for the academy.
• Identify opportunities to expand classes, partnerships and student numbers.
• Promote the academy across the community and support marketing efforts.

Person Specification

• Essential. Experience in arts education or arts organisation management.
• Essential. Strong leadership, organisation and communication skills.
• Essential. A good understanding of South Asian or Dravidian performing arts.
• Essential. Ability to build positive relationships and lead a diverse team.
• Essential. Confidence working in a fast‑paced weekend‑focused environment.
• Essential. Relevant degree or equivalent qualification in arts, education, management or a related discipline.
• Essential. Knowledge of school or academy administration.
• Essential. Understanding of health and safety responsibilities within an educational setting.
• Essential. Experience applying school management or operational strategies.
• Desirable. Experience coordinating performances or cultural events.
• Desirable. Background as a performer or instructor in music, dance, drama or martial arts.
• Desirable. Experience improving programmes or developing new classes.
• Desirable. Experience leading a traditional art form academy such as Kalari or similar.

Additional Information

The appointment will be subject to an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references.

Experience: Required

Employment: Full‑time

Salary: from £34,000 yearly

About Malayalee Association of the UK (MAUK)

The Malayalee Association of the UK (MAUK) is a long‑standing community organisation dedicated to supporting, celebrating and uplifting the Malayalee community across Britain. Established more than four decades ago, MAUK delivers a wide range of cultural, educational and social activities.