Craig Gaffney, teacher of dance at St John Bosco Arts College

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Since joining St John Bosco Arts College in 2009, Craig Gaffney has held a variety of roles, including teaching assistant, pastoral care lead, and safeguarding officer. He now works within the performing arts department as a teacher of dance.

 

A passionate advocate of the Salesian ethos, Craig brings warmth, inclusivity, and a deep sense of purpose to his work. Whether he’s mentoring students, directing a production or supporting pastoral care, he strives to create an environment where faith, hope and love are lived experiences – key values at St John Bosco.

 

“I’ve always wanted to work in arts education as I am so passionate about the arts and all the possibilities it offers,” he explained. Every year, Craig supports the school chaplain in co-developing the Passion Play, which is always a highlight for him as it’s a performance that resonates with students and staff alike.

 

He said: “It allows me to blend faith and artistry in a way that touches the entire school community. Collaborating with the chaplain and students brings a sense of unity and reflection, and it remains one of the most spiritually fulfilling projects I’ve ever been part of.”

 

Craig also plays a key role in shaping the school production each year, which is recognised as a celebration of student talent, teamwork, and ambition.

 

Through his involvement with various external arts programmes Craig brings his knowledge of the industry into his teaching. This, he says: “offers students a real-world arts diet that’s both enriching and two previous consecutive nominations. and passion that our students and staff pour into the arts. The result reflects our commitment to excellence and inclusivity, and they inspire us to keep pushing boundaries and raising the bar year on year!” aspirational. It helps bridge the gap between school and the wider creative world.”

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Craig’s dedication to St John Bosco and the performing arts department supported the school in winning the esteemed title of Outstanding Arts in Secondary at the Educate Awards 2025, following two previous consecutive nominations.

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Speaking on the recent award win, Craig said: “It’s a tremendous honour and a validation of the hard work, creativity, and passion that our students and staff pour into the arts. The result reflects our commitment to excellence and inclusivity, and they inspire us to keep pushing boundaries and raising the bar year on year!”

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Now on the cusp of gaining qualified teacher status (QTS), Craig is excited to formalise his teaching journey.

 

He said: “Gaining QTS will allow me to innovate further, mentor more deeply, and continue building a space where every student feels empowered to express themselves and flourish.”