Head of Music & Performing Arts
Oakfield Preparatory School, West Dulwich, London, SE21 8HP
Job Status: Full time
Salary: Teachers Main Pay Scale with a responsibility allowance
Required for: September 2025 or January 2026
An Education Development Trust school for children aged 2-11 years
Oakfield is a vibrant independent preparatory school in the heart of West Dulwich. We have high aspirations for our pupils' academic success, providing a nurturing environment that values them as individuals. We are committed to offering a well-rounded education that equips pupils with the skills and experiences they need to thrive in the future.
Are you passionate about music and performing arts? Do you have the vision and drive to lead a dynamic team and inspire young minds? Oakfield Preparatory School is looking for an enthusiastic and forward-thinking Head of Music & Performing Arts to join our team!
As the Head of Music & Performing Arts, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for all aspects of Music and Performing Arts at Oakfield Preparatory School. You will ensure the highest standards of teaching, learning, and pupil engagement across both curricular and co-curricular activities. This role is pivotal in developing an ambitious, inclusive, and forward-thinking programme that enables every pupil to participate in and excel through music, drama, and performance opportunities.
Key Responsibilities:
- Strategic Vision: Develop and maintain a clear vision for Music and Performing Arts in line with the school's strategy and development plan.
- Curriculum Development: Lead the delivery and evolution of a dynamic Music curriculum from Early Years to Year 6.
- Co-Curricular Activities: Oversee a full programme of ensembles, productions, concerts, and events.
- Team Leadership: Manage and develop the music and drama team, including teachers, coaches, and peripatetic staff.
- Community Engagement: Foster a culture of creativity, performance, and artistic expression within the school and the wider community.
What We Offer:
- Collaborative Environment: Work closely with colleagues across the school to deliver an integrated and ambitious performing arts experience.
- Professional Development: Opportunities for ongoing professional development and training.
- Supportive Leadership: Report to the Director of Studies and work with the Senior Leadership Team to achieve the school's goals.
- Inspiring Work: Shape a programme that not only inspires pupils but also engages the wider community and sets new standards for creativity and ambition.
About You:
- Qualifications: A degree in Music (QTS and further professional development are desirable).
- Experience: Proven experience in teaching the National Curriculum, KS1 & 2, and leading choirs, orchestras, and ensembles.
- Skills: Excellent interpersonal skills, ability to direct choral and/or instrumental ensembles, and competence in using ICT in both classrooms and administration.
- Personal Qualities: Honesty, integrity, adaptability, enthusiasm, and a passion for Music and Performing Arts.
A full list of job objectives and requirements can be found in the Job description on our website.
Deadline for applications: Friday 16 May. Please note, we reserve the right to close our vacancies early if sufficient applications are received.
Interview details: Interviews will take place on Thursday 22 and Friday 23 May with the Head Teacher and a member of her Senior Leadership Team.
How to apply: To be considered for this vacancy, applicants are required to complete and submit a fully completed application form through our website.
Education Development Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults whom we work with and come into contact with around the world. All applicants are subject to thorough screening and successful candidates are subject to the relevant level of criminal record checks with national police authorities or the UK’s Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS). For all school based roles this will be an Enhanced DBS check.
At Education Development Trust, we strive to create a workplace where everyone feels valued, can be themselves and knows they can reach their full potential. We embrace and celebrate our differences through various initiatives and support colleagues through a number of staff networks. We’re committed to building a strong, diverse workforce and making Education Development Trust an inclusive place to work. If you have specific requirements or adjustments, please let us know if there is anything we can do to support your application. We are proud to be a member of the Disability Confident employer scheme.
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