From school teacher to university lecturer: Illuminating the journey from the classroom to the university for two arts educators

This article aims to provide insights into the journey of two artist teachers who currently work as arts educators at the university level. Narrative inquiry has been used to discuss how the arts have informed their identities and subsequent transition into their current roles. The identities of artist, artist teacher and arts educator are considered in relation to how these have informed and continue to inform their teaching. The unique characteristics of those who work in the arts are also explored and provide important understandings in relation to the mentoring and support required for educators who work in this context.

Research highlights► Providing insights for school arts teachers wishing to teach in the university sector; ► Highlighting the unique characteristics of educators in the arts and levels of support/mentoring required; ► Recommendations relating to providing a more seamless journey for school teachers to university educators.