Director of Music

Bishopsgate School; Bishopsgate; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Bishopsgate School is seeking an inspiring and committed Director of Music to lead our thriving department from April 2027 (or January 2027). This role shapes the strategic direction of music across the school and leads a team of peripatetic teachers, playing a central part in our rich and varied musical programme.

The successful candidate will teach classroom Music to Years 4–8, direct the Junior Choir (Years 3–4) and prepare pupils for events such as the Christmas Carol Service, Spring

Qualifications

• Outstanding musician and teacher capable of inspiring pupils of all ages and abilities.
• Confident pianist, capable of accompanying rehearsals, performances and school events, with strong sight-reading skills.
• Excellent classroom practice with leadership and organisation to manage a busy music department.

Responsibilities

• Teach classroom Music from Years 4-8.
• Direct Junior Choir (Years 3 and 4).
• Prepare pupils for key events including the Christmas Carol Service, Spring Serenade and Summer Arts Fest.
• Contribute to Senior and Chamber Choirs and oversee ensembles and concerts.
• Inspire a lifelong love of music in pupils of all abilities.
• Play an active role in wider school life and pastoral responsibilities.

Job description

Due to an internal promotion, Bishopsgate School is seeking an inspiring and committed Director of Music to lead our thriving department from April 2027 (or January 2027). This is an exciting opportunity for a talented musician and teacher to shape the strategic direction of music across the school, lead a team of peripatetic teachers, and play a central role in our rich and varied musical programme.

We are seeking an outstanding musician and teacher with the ability to inspire pupils of all ages and abilities. The successful candidate will be a confident pianist, capable of accompanying rehearsals, performances and school events, with strong sight-reading skills highly desirable. They will combine excellent classroom practice with the organisational and leadership skills needed to manage a busy and successful music department.

The successful candidate will teach classroom Music from Years 4-8, direct our well-established Junior Choir (Years 3 and 4), and prepare pupils for key events including the Christmas Carol Service, Spring Serenade and Summer Arts Fest. They will also contribute to the Senior and Chamber Choirs, oversee a busy programme of ensembles and concerts, and inspire a lifelong love of music in pupils of all abilities.

The department is exceptionally well resourced, with whole-class samba and djembe sets, electronic and MIDI keyboards, a wide range of tuned and untuned percussion, and a subscription to Soundtrap for digital music making. Music is celebrated through regular teatime recitals, chapel performances, assemblies and large-scale termly showcases. With regular ABRSM exam sessions, half-termly performance opportunities and strong links with senior schools through collaborative workshops and concerts, this role offers an outstanding opportunity to build on an already flourishing programme and further enhance the musical reputation of the school.

As a member of our community, the successful candidate will play an active role in the wider life of the school, including pastoral responsibilities and co-curricular activities. Staff are encouraged to share their interests and talents beyond the classroom, helping to create a rich and well-rounded experience for all pupils.

Vigilance in safeguarding is central to everything we do, and the successful candidate must fully embrace this shared commitment. Any concerns arising from lessons, activities, or a pupil's attitude or behaviour must be identified and reported promptly to the Designated Safeguarding Lead.