Dunottar School - Violin & Piano Teacher

Dunottar is a vibrant, co-educational independent secondary school set in extensive grounds of 15 acres on the outskirts of Reigate, Surrey. We have 460 pupils across years 7-13 and are part of United Learning’s large and growing family of schools. We are a first-choice school for parents in the local area and operate a waiting list for admissions. 

Through excellent teaching and outstanding pastoral care, we aim to bring out the best in every pupil, enabling them to be the very best they can be. We believe that for pupils to succeed in the workplace of the future, they need a well-rounded education that goes beyond academics. Our unique Warrior Learning ethos encourages pupils to aim high, to challenge themselves and not to fear making mistakes, whilst also developing an excellent set of values. 

Dunottar is a great place to work, with a team of highly professional and committed teachers and support staff. We incorporate best practice from independent schools and academies from across the United Learning Group. You will join a network of staff belonging to over 80 other schools, with opportunities to engage with fellow professionals that far exceed what one school could achieve on its own.   

The Music Department

The Music Department has experienced rapid growth in recent years, with an increasing number of children involved in musical performances. The school teaches Music to both GCSE and A-Level, and offers a wide range of co-curricular music groups including Training Orchestra, choir, and the award-winning Dunottar Chamber Ensemble. The department works closely with the Drama Department, especially with the annual school musical, which is always a highlight of the year.  

The Music Department is set in the bespoke Castle Building, with a 520-seat theatre, five purpose-built practice rooms and a drama studio. 

The Role

We are seeking an experienced and inspirational musician to teach the violin and piano at our Saturday Music Academy. The Dunottar Saturday Music Academy operates from 8.30am-3pm on Saturdays during term, and welcomes young musicians aged 5-18 from Dunottar School and the surrounding areas. It provides an exciting setting for pupils to immerse themselves in musical learning and enjoyment through tuition and collaboration with others. The Academy is committed to musical excellence and aims to nurture young musicians through dedicated teaching and the provision of opportunities that are unique to Dunottar.

The successful candidate would relish the opportunity to join our successful and friendly Academy. We are looking for someone with an ability to stimulate curiosity and interest in music and who is prepared to give full commitment to the aims and ethos of the department and Dunottar School.    

The successful candidate will share our passion for developing the work of the Academy and sharing good practice. 

Key Responsibilities   

• Teach violin and piano lessons to pupils with a range of abilities, tailoring your approach to each student 
• Prepare pupils for exams with ABRSM, Trinity or equivalent
• Prepare pupils for performances, such as concerts and recitals 
• Enable pupils to build their confidence in aural skills and knowledge of music theory 
• Demonstrate excellent organisation skills
• Communicate effectively with pupils, parents, other peripatetic teachers and Music Department and Academy staff 
• Communicate pupils’ progress to parents regularly  
• Maintain high professional standards of dress code, punctuality and politeness 

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and the post holder may perform other duties reasonably required by the Headmaster. 

The School reserves the right to make an appointment at any stage during the recruitment process.  

Person Specification

Professional  Qualifications and Skills  

• Ability to perform to a high level on the violin and piano
• A degree-level music qualification 
• Experience in teaching beginner musicians to Grade 8+ 
• Accompaniment skills  

Personal Qualities  

• High levels of personal and professional integrity   
• Commitment to outstanding teaching   
• An ability to share a passion for music with young people
• Personal warmth, and good rapport with pupils,  colleagues and parents
• Appropriate levels of personal presentation
• Excellent organisation skills  

Philosophy and Ethos  

• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people
• High expectations for pupil attainment, personal  development and conduct
• Commitment to best practice in pastoral support and student welfare