Director of Music, CLARUS EDUCATION

Guardian Jobs; Haywards Heath; On-site; GBP 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading independent school is seeking a Director of Music to foster musical excellence and lead a dynamic music program. The successful candidate will inspire staff and students, develop a diverse curriculum, and manage key ensembles, ensuring every child experiences the joy of music.

Benefits

Competitive Salary based on experience

Remission on fees for staff children

Generous pension scheme and life assurance

Free on-site parking

Complimentary dining during term time

Free use of the indoor swimming pool

Occupational sick pay scheme

Qualifications

• Exceptional musicianship and proven track record in music education.
• Ability to conduct/direct choirs and orchestras.
• Experience in teaching Key Stage 2-3 Music.

Responsibilities

• Lead and inspire a team of music staff.
• Develop and deliver a strategic vision for the Music Department.
• Organize and maintain effective records of pupil progress.

Skills

Leadership

Musicianship

Management

Organizational Skills

Collaboration

Education

Degree in Music

Tools

Music Technology

Job description

Position:Director of Music

Location:Haywards Heath

Setting: Independent School (Day & Boarding School)

Salary: £50,000 (Depending on experience)

Reporting to:Deputy Head

Start date:September 2025

Job Overview

We are inviting exceptional candidates to apply for the position of Director of Music. We are seeking an inspiring and dynamic leader with outstanding musicianship, strong management skills, and a clear vision for fostering musical excellence. We are looking for someone to join us on a full time and permanent basis.

The successful candidate will be a talented musician and educator, capable of motivating both pupils and staff to strive for the highest standards while cultivating a lifelong love of music. You will be responsible for delivering a diverse and engaging music programme that balances inclusivity with excellence, ensuring every child experiences the joy of musical expression and performance.

With a commitment to nurturing individual talent, you will also champion ensemble work, encouraging collaboration and confidence through regular concerts, services, and productions.

Responsibilities

•Lead and inspire a team of music staff, including the Assistant Director of Music, Music Administrator, and Visiting Music Teachers (VMTs), ensuring consistent excellence in teaching and performance.

• Oversee the recruitment, induction, and management of VMTs, facilitating their timetabling and appraisals.

• Develop and deliver a clear strategic vision for the Music Department, ensuring alignment with the school’s co-curricular goals.

• Organise and maintain effective records, tracking pupil progress and ensuring clear communication with parents.

• Ensure that music plays a central role in the school’s marketing and public profile.

• Create and deliver an inspiring music curriculum for all year groups, promoting progression and continuity in musical education.

• Lead by example through outstanding classroom teaching, including preparation for Y8 Music Scholarship candidates.

• Foster a love of music across the school, encouraging participation and musical exploration.

• Keep the department handbook and development plan updated annually, ensuring relevance and innovation.

• Incorporate music technology into lessons, enhancing pupils’ musical literacy and creativity.

•Lead and direct key school ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, and chamber groups.

• Plan and deliver a diverse programme of concerts, recitals, and performances throughout the year, including the Carol Service, House Music Competition, Coffee Concerts, and Leavers’ Concert.

• Support and prepare pupils for external performances, competitions, and music scholarships.

• Collaborate with the pastoral team to deliver the musical component of weekday and Sunday services.

• Ensure all performances reflect the school’s high standards of musical excellence and presentation.

• Lead on music outreach initiatives, including coordinating and managing large-scale community events, fostering partnerships, and promoting the school’s musical presence locally and beyond.

Requirements

• A degree in Music with exceptional musicianship and a proven track record in music education.
• Ability to accompany rehearsals and concerts, and to conduct/direct choirs, orchestras, and other ensembles.
• Excellence in teaching Key Stage 2-3 Music, with experience preparing pupils for scholarships and competitions.
• Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and support colleagues. •
• Proficient keyboard skills to ABRSM Grade 8 standard, or similar professional experience would be advantages.
• Proficiency in using music technology and incorporating it into the curriculum. • Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage complex timetables and events.
• Experience working flexibly and creatively with the Director of Drama, with the ability to collaborate on theatrical productions.

Benefits

• Competitive Salary based on experience
• Remission on fees for staff children attending the school or nursery. • Generous contributory pension scheme and life assurance.
• Free on-site parking.
• Complimentary dining and refreshments during term time.
• Free use of the indoor swimming pool at specified times.
• Occupational sick pay scheme.

If you are enthusiastic about leading musical initiatives and have a desire to educate others through music, we invite you to apply for this rewarding position.

To apply for this opportunity, please provide your detailed CV to Georgina at Clarus Education now to be considered. We will be contacting those shortlisted within 48 hours of an application.

We are dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expect all staff to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to enhanced clearance through the Disclosure and Barring Service and employment will be subject to references.

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Job Types: Full-time, Permanent, Graduate