Amber Gristwood
Blackpool,Lancashire
Summary
Art and Textile educator focused on enhancing creativity and self-expression in students. Employs a holistic teaching approach to cultivate educational, emotional, and social skills. Develops engaging learning environments that boost artistic potential and student involvement. Proficient in both in-person and remote instruction, utilising interactive activities to inspire students.
Overview
28
28
years of professional experience
8
8
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Jewellery Designer Maker - Part Time
Amber Marie
Blackpool, Lancashire
2020.09 - 2026.04
- Directed comprehensive rebranding and product redesign to revitalise brand identity.
- Integrated traditional craftsmanship with modern technology in innovative jewellery designs.
- Developed jewellery, cards, and decorative items focused on health and wellbeing.
- Resumed business to create jewellery inspired by floral motifs and vibrant colours.
- Utilised raw, natural materials to accentuate beauty of traditional crafts.
- Crafted pieces evoking stillness through delicate design.
- Incorporated diverse artistic mediums to enhance overall aesthetic appeal.
D&T Teacher - Full Time
LSA High School
Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
2025.04 - 2025.07
- Completed SMHS health and safety course on safe tool usage for practical lessons.
- Assist in production of plastic moulded wooden phone holders within D&T department to year 9 pupils.
- Enhanced year 7-8 Textile lesson plans, to make more inspiring, engaging and motivating pupils.
- Ensured curriculum continuity by covering various subjects across department and school.
Art & Design Teacher – 3 Days per week
Moor Park High School
Preston, Lancashire
2024.12 - 2025.04
- Delivered dynamic art classes for year groups seven to 13, covering A Level curriculum.
- Conducted tailored ceramics sessions and multimedia painting lessons fostering creativity.
- Ensured safe handling of materials and equipment during all instructional periods.
- Facilitated after-school meetings with pupils to implement behaviour improvement strategies.
Art & Textiles Teacher - Full Time
South Shore Academy
Blackpool, Lancashire
2023.04 - 2024.10
- Adapted art curricula across all year groups to address diverse student needs.
- Developed engaging Textile schemes for Year 10 to enhance curriculum involvement.
- Delivered comprehensive Textiles instruction for Year 11, focusing on ART GCSE outcomes.
- Managed challenging behaviour to cultivate positive learning environments.
- Established strong relationships with students through active interest in personal growth.
Art & Design Teacher - Full Time
St Bede's High School
Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
2023.02 - 2023.04
- Instructed Art and Design for all year groups, focusing on Year 11 photography.
- Implemented techniques and demonstrations to enhance pupil engagement in each lesson.
- Guided pupils in showcasing knowledge and meeting expectations through creative projects.
Art & Design Teacher - Two Weeks FT
Cardinal Allen School
Fleetwood, lancashire
2023.01 - 2023.02
- Implemented innovative teaching methods, sparking student engagement in art and design for years 7-9.
D&T Teacher - 1 Day
Millfield School
Thornton-Cleveleys, Lancashire
2023.01 - 2023.01
- Facilitated making woodwork maze game in D&T lessons in collaboration with technician support.
General Supply Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
Blackpool, Lancashire
2022.11 - 2023.01
- Facilitated learning in Maths and other subjects during teacher absences.
Textile Teacher - Full Time
LSA High School
Lytham St Annes, Lancashire
2022.01 - 2022.07
- Managed textile department at largest school on Fylde Coast, instructing years seven to ten.
- Refined curriculum by creating and updating textile schemes of work.
- Supported year ten form group in academic progress and wellbeing initiatives.
- Evaluated assessments to input grades and modified seating plans for learning support.
- Offered assistance in art and D&T classes in absence of regular teachers.
Art & Design Teacher - 4 days a week
Baines School
Blackpool, Lancashire
2021.11 - 2021.12
- Supported year eleven pupils during preliminary Art exams to ensure effective preparation.
- Facilitated skill development in Art and D&T across all year groups, focusing on light sensor circuits and construction for year 10.
Art Teacher - 3 Days a week
Brookfield's School
Poulton-le-Fylde, Lancashire
2021.10 - 2021.11
- Developed and delivered textile and craft themed lessons to inspire, engage, and motivate learners with EHCPs across diverse SEMH needs.
D&T Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
Blackpool, Lancashire
2021.03 - 2021.05
- Delivered diverse fine art and CAD projects for year groups 7 to 11.
- Conducted architecture lessons within Design and Technology curriculum.
- Collaborated with student teacher to provide guidance and support.
Art & D&T Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
Blackpool, Lancashire
2020.12 - 2020.12
- Enabled teaching across all subjects in art and design technology, fostering valuable skills in construction, systems and controls, along with graphics and architecture.
Art Teacher - 2 weeks
St Marys Academy
Blackpool, Lancashire
2020.11 - 2020.11
- Delivered diverse drawing and painting lessons to students in years 7 to 13.
- Developed tailored assessment preparation strategies for pupils in years 11 to 13.
D&T Teacher - Full Time
Armfield Academy,
Blackpool, Lancashire
2020.09 - 2020.09
- Designed engaging D&T lesson plans for years 7 to 9, enhancing student involvement.
- Utilised ICT tools to create interactive classroom environments that stimulated learning.
- Promoted student experimentation to facilitate development of individual artistic styles.
Art Teacher - 4 days per week
Montgomery High School
Blackpool, Lancashire
2019.12 - 2020.07
- Facilitated lessons for years 7 to 11, effectively preparing students for Art GCSE exams.
- Maintained thorough records while tracking pupil progress and growth.
- Assumed role of form tutor for year 10, responsible for assembly and attendance duties.
- Attended briefings, CPD meetings, and parents' evenings to enhance communication.
Art Teacher - Full Time
St Aiden's High School
Preesall, Lancashire
2019.09 - 2019.11
- Implemented creative teaching strategies across all year groups, enhancing pre-prepared lesson plans.
- Oversaw Year 11 registration and disseminated essential updates from staff briefings.
- Encouraged artistic expression through multiple art mediums.
Art & Design Trainee Teacher - Part time
Educational Diversity
Blackpool, Lancashire
2018.11 - 2019.06
- Adapted lessons to enhance educational access for SEND pupils.
- Developed lesson plans in accordance with AQA grading standards.
- Motivated underperforming students to improve study habits and participation.
- Organised classrooms to consistently facilitate positive learning experiences.
Designer Maker - Full Time
Amber Marie
Bath, Somerset
2005.11 - 2018.09
- Designed over 50 unique jewellery and accessory products, showcasing original textile designs.
- Managed production processes from concept to completion, coordinating with factories for overseas manufacturing.
- Distributed products across 40 retail locations, including White Stuff, enhancing market reach.
- Press feature in BBC Lancashire, local Gazette, London local publications, High Life Magazine, Bath Life, Spirit & Destiny.
- Conducted weekly mother and toddler craft sessions to promote revenue and brand awareness.
- Created comprehensive catalogue and designed marketing materials using Illustrator and photography skills.
Artist in Residence / Teaching Workshop Leader
Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool Council
, Lancashire
2006.07 - 2011.01
- Facilitated artistic events in Blackpool, enriching local art education.
- Conducted workshops for children aged six to sixteen, focusing on exhibitions and arts awards.
- Achieved Level 1 qualification as Arts Award Advisor for bronze and silver levels.
- Boosted gallery revenue through sales of Amber Marie branded jewellery.
- Provided private art tutoring, fostering artistic growth in students.
- Demonstrated strong work ethic and commitment to artistic excellence bringing visions to life.
Textile Graphic Designer - Freelance P/T
Long Island Products
, London
2004.11 - 2009.08
- Produced CAD textile illustrations for wooden beads, bangles and shell pendants sold to establised jewellery retailer Accessorize.
Jewellery Designer - Full Time
Long Island Products
, London
2003.10 - 2004.11
- Hand crafted women's costume jewellery for high street retailers, including Next and Accessorize.
- Organised workflow and maintained records to enhance efficiency.
- Liaised with factories and suppliers to optimise production processes.
Graphic Textile Designer - Full Time
Urban Girls & Gotham Angels
London
2002.02 - 2003.09
- Designed clothing collections for Top Shop and Miss Selfridge, featured in high-profile Oxford Street displays.
- Created seasonal textile prints for Gotham Angels, increasing sales with catalogue showcases.
- Developed compelling trade show displays and window paintings to enhance promotional efforts.
Full Time Printed Textile Designer
The Colorfield
New York
1999.07 - 2001.09
- Developed innovative fabric designs for retailers including GAP and Calvin Klein.
- Designs sold to brands inc Ralph Lauren, Polo, Ann Taylor, and Macy's and featured in Nylon Magazine
- Participated in international print shows, facilitating client interactions and supporting sales efforts.
Telesales Advisor
British Telecommunications
, Bristol
1998.08 - 1999.06
- Contacted new and existing customers to promote products and services.
Managed over 50 customer calls daily, surpassing competitor performance.
Achieved 'Call Advisor of Week' recognition on three occasions.
Education
SMHS - Secondary Materials Health and Safety - D&T
Design & Technology Association
Oxford 2025.07 - 2025.07
Level 3 CPD - Psychotherapy and Counselling
Alpha Academy
Distance Learning 2020.06 - 2020.07
Diploma -CPD - Understanding Autism Diploma
New Skills Academy
Distance learning 2020.05 - 2020.06
PGCE - Education Level 7
Blackpool and the Fylde College
Lancashire 2018.09 - 2019.09
Diploma Level 7 - Counselling & Psychotherapy
CPD Courses
Distance Learning 2020.07 - 2020.08
Diploma - Certificate - ADHD Awareness Diploma
New Skills Academy
Distance Learning 2020.06 - 2020.06
GCSE - Maths Grade 4
Blackpool and the Fylde College
Lancashire 2018.09 - 2019.07
Diploma (Level 4) - The Complete SEND
New Skills Academy
Distance Learning 2018.01 - 2018.04
CBT Diploma - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
New skills Academy
Distance Learning 2018.02 - 2018.03
Arts Award Advisor Level 1 And 2 - Education
Blackpool City Council
Blackpool 2009.07 - 2009.07
BA (Hons) 2:2 - Textile Design
Loughborough University
Loughborough, Leicestershire 1995.09 - 1998.07
Diploma of Higher Education - Surface Decoration (art, multi-media)
De Montfort University
Leicester 1993.09 - 1994.07
BTEC National - Art and Design
South Bristol College
Bristol 1991.09 - 1993.07
Skills
- GCSE level 4 maths and English
- Health and safety training
- Effective demonstration
- Classroom management
- Adaptability and approachability
- Creativity development
- Interpersonal communication
- Multicultural sensitivity
Affiliations
- Nature, national trust, swimming, arts, history and culture, theatre, films, music, travel.
References
References available upon request.
Timeline
SMHS - Secondary Materials Health and Safety - D&T
Design & Technology Association
2025.07 - 2025.07
D&T Teacher - Full Time
LSA High School
2025.04 - 2025.07
Art & Design Teacher – 3 Days per week
Moor Park High School
2024.12 - 2025.04
Art & Textiles Teacher - Full Time
South Shore Academy
2023.04 - 2024.10
Art & Design Teacher - Full Time
St Bede's High School
2023.02 - 2023.04
Art & Design Teacher - Two Weeks FT
Cardinal Allen School
2023.01 - 2023.02
D&T Teacher - 1 Day
Millfield School
2023.01 - 2023.01
General Supply Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
2022.11 - 2023.01
Textile Teacher - Full Time
LSA High School
2022.01 - 2022.07
Art & Design Teacher - 4 days a week
Baines School
2021.11 - 2021.12
Art Teacher - 3 Days a week
Brookfield's School
2021.10 - 2021.11
D&T Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
2021.03 - 2021.05
Art & D&T Teacher - Full Time
Baines School
2020.12 - 2020.12
Art Teacher - 2 weeks
St Marys Academy
2020.11 - 2020.11
Jewellery Designer Maker - Part Time
Amber Marie
2020.09 - 2026.04
D&T Teacher - Full Time
Armfield Academy,
2020.09 - 2020.09
Diploma Level 7 - Counselling & Psychotherapy
CPD Courses
2020.07 - 2020.08
Level 3 CPD - Psychotherapy and Counselling
Alpha Academy
2020.06 - 2020.07
Diploma - Certificate - ADHD Awareness Diploma
New Skills Academy
2020.06 - 2020.06
Diploma -CPD - Understanding Autism Diploma
New Skills Academy
2020.05 - 2020.06
Art Teacher - 4 days per week
Montgomery High School
2019.12 - 2020.07
Art Teacher - Full Time
St Aiden's High School
2019.09 - 2019.11
Art & Design Trainee Teacher - Part time
Educational Diversity
2018.11 - 2019.06
PGCE - Education Level 7
Blackpool and the Fylde College
2018.09 - 2019.09
GCSE - Maths Grade 4
Blackpool and the Fylde College
2018.09 - 2019.07
CBT Diploma - Cognitive Behaviour Therapy
New skills Academy
2018.02 - 2018.03
Diploma (Level 4) - The Complete SEND
New Skills Academy
2018.01 - 2018.04
Arts Award Advisor Level 1 And 2 - Education
Blackpool City Council
2009.07 - 2009.07
Artist in Residence / Teaching Workshop Leader
Grundy Art Gallery, Blackpool Council
2006.07 - 2011.01
Designer Maker - Full Time
Amber Marie
2005.11 - 2018.09
Textile Graphic Designer - Freelance P/T
Long Island Products
2004.11 - 2009.08
Jewellery Designer - Full Time
Long Island Products
2003.10 - 2004.11
Graphic Textile Designer - Full Time
Urban Girls & Gotham Angels
2002.02 - 2003.09
Full Time Printed Textile Designer
The Colorfield
1999.07 - 2001.09
Telesales Advisor
British Telecommunications
1998.08 - 1999.06
BA (Hons) 2:2 - Textile Design
Loughborough University
1995.09 - 1998.07
Diploma of Higher Education - Surface Decoration (art, multi-media)
De Montfort University
1993.09 - 1994.07
BTEC National - Art and Design
South Bristol College
1991.09 - 1993.07