Head of Music

Would you love to lead the music department in a school with a real passion for music? Music is at the heart of our school with 80% of boys playing an instrument and 70% enjoying one of our many choirs. 

We are seeking an enthusiastic and experienced Head of Music to lead our thriving music department. The ideal candidate will be a visionary educator with a passion for music and the ability to inspire students of all abilities. The Head of Music will be responsible for developing and implementing a comprehensive music curriculum, overseeing extracurricular music activities, and fostering a culture of musical excellence within the school.

Key Responsibilities:

·       Develop and deliver an engaging and challenging music curriculum from Nursery to Year 8

·       Lead, manage, and inspire a team of music teachers and peripatetic staff

·       Organise and direct school concerts, recitals, and other musical events

·       Oversee the school orchestra, choir, and other musical ensembles

·       Foster a love of music and encourage participation in extracurricular music activities

·       Collaborate with other departments to integrate music into the broader school curriculum

·       Manage the music department budget and resources

·       Maintain and develop partnerships with external music organisations and the local community

·       Ensure the highest standards of teaching and learning in music

·       Monitor and support the progress of all students in the department, providing regular feedback and assessments

Person Specification:

·       A degree in Music or a related field, with a teaching qualification (PGCE or equivalent)

·       Proven experience in teaching music at all levels

·       Strong leadership and organisational skills

·       Excellent communication and interpersonal abilities

·       A track record of directing successful music performances and events

·       Proficiency in a range of musical instruments and styles

·       Commitment to continuous professional development

·       A passion for working with young people and a belief in the transformative power of music education

What We Offer:

·       A supportive and collaborative working environment

·       Access to excellent facilities and resources

·       Opportunities for professional development and career progression

·       Competitive salary and benefits package

·       A vibrant school community with a strong commitment to the arts

·       Access to employer provided accommodation

About Us:

St John’s is an independent prep school for boys aged 3 – 13, set in a magnificent thirty-five acre estate overlooking London. Our rich heritage as part of the Merchant Taylors’ family of schools was recently commemorated in our centenary celebrations. Traditional values of respect and kindness are blended with an innovative approach to teaching and learning; our ethos is both rounded as well as academically rigorous.

We are committed to fostering a dynamic and inclusive environment where each student can thrive and develop their talents. Our music department is a core part of our school community, promoting creativity, discipline, and a love for the arts.

Music is extremely well respected by students, staff and parents alike and it is embedded as part of the ethos where boys are encouraged to take up learning an instrument on an individual basis. The team of visiting instrumental teachers are hardworking dedicated practitioners, dedicated to supporting the work of the Head of Music and the music department.

Boys look forward to their curriculum music lessons, group rehearsals and individual instrumental lessons, taking pride in the opportunity to be involved in music at St John's; they really care about their music and are keen to engage in a wide variety of musical opportunities. The school's leadership and academic team supports music overtly, fully recognising wholeheartedly the benefits of music to all children at St John's.

The department is well equipped with a large teaching space, practice rooms and a rehearsal hall with Yamaha Grand Piano. Music benefits from an outdoor music classroom, containing outdoor instruments installed by generous donation from the Merchant Taylors' Educational Trust. 

Recent music event highlights have included the Brass Band performing as part of The Lord Mayor's Show Parade in the City of London, a 90 strong choir singing at Young Voices at Wembley Arena, joint events with Northwood College for Girls and Orchestral afternoons at Merchant Taylors' School.

This appointment is an excellent opportunity for the right candidate to lead an already thriving and well-respected music department.

Contact Information:

For more information about the role or to arrange an informal discussion, please contact Mrs C Baguley on email headsea@st-johns.org.uk or telephone 020 8866 0067.

How to Apply:

Interested candidates should submit an application form, childcare disqualification self declaration form and equal opportunities monitoring form and include a covering letter outlining their suitability for the role.

Closing Date for applications: 28 June 2024

Interviews: Interviews will take place w/c 1 July 2024

Applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible as shortlisting will take place up until the closing date. Shortlisted candidates will be invited into school for interview and tour of the school.

St John’s is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. 

St John’s is an equal opportunities employer.