Head of Drama

Wetherby Preparatory School; Greater London; On-site; GBP 55,000 - 75,000; Full time

Job summary

Wetherby Preparatory School in Marylebone, London, is seeking a Head of Drama to lead, develop and deliver an engaging performing arts curriculum for pupils from Reception to Year 8. The role starts January 2027 (April 2027 considered) and may include Head of Year 7/8 responsibilities for an experienced candidate.

You will oversee productions, clubs, safeguarding, and foster strong partnerships with parents and the wider community.

Qualifications

• QTS or equivalent teaching qualification.
• Experience designing and delivering drama lessons for primary/early years.
• Passion for drama and performing arts.
• Strong knowledge of the primary drama curriculum and teaching strategies.
• Excellent classroom and behaviour management.
• Strong communication with parents and the wider community.

Responsibilities

• Design, implement, and review a high-quality drama and performing arts curriculum appropriate for Reception to Year 8.
• Plan, organise, and direct major school productions, assemblies, and events, ensuring pupil participation.
• Lead and support after-school drama activities, including clubs and enrichment workshops.
• Foster strong behaviour management within lessons and rehearsals, ensuring a safe, positive environment.
• Build effective partnerships with parents, carers, and the wider school community to promote achievements in drama.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across departments to integrate performing arts into wider school life.
• Develop and coordinate a drama scholarship programme, identifying and supporting talented pupils.
• Take responsibility for the theatre space, equipment, and resources, ensuring their use and maintenance.
• Contribute to school events and performances that showcase drama and performing arts.
• Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and pupil wellbeing in line with policies.

Skills

QTS or equivalent

Job description

Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 125 premium private schools spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.

In 28 countries, Inspired schools are individually developed and anchored in the vibrant cultures of their respective locations. They collectively form an international family of schools that nurtures each student's academic and personal development in a progressive, dynamic, and innovative learning environment.

By joining our award-winning team of over 14,000 employees, you can work in state-of-the-art facilities alongside industry-renowned educators and leaders in some of the world's most desirable locations. We invest heavily in our team members who enjoy industry-leading professional development, exceptional career opportunities, and mobility across our group.

ROLE SUMMARY:

Wetherby Preparatory School is an independent preparatory school (ages 7-13) set in the dynamic area of Marylebone in London. Wetherby prepares its pupils for many of the top day and boarding senior schools in the country and therefore works at a level significantly above National Curriculum expectations.

Wetherby Prep are now looking for a Head of Drama to join them from January 2027. The Head of Drama will be responsible for leading, developing, and delivering an engaging and inclusive performing arts curriculum across Reception to Year 8.

The role is available for a January 2027 start, although an April 2027 start may be considered. There is also an opportunity to take on additional responsibility as Head of Year 7 and 8 for a candidate with the relevant experience.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Design, implement, and review a high-quality drama and performing arts curriculum appropriate for pupils from Reception to Year 8.
• Plan, organise, and direct major school productions, assemblies, and events, ensuring all pupils have the opportunity to participate.
• Lead and support extra-curricular drama activities, including after-school clubs and enrichment workshops.
• Foster strong behaviour management within lessons and rehearsals, ensuring a safe, positive, and supportive environment for all pupils.
• Build effective partnerships with parents, carers, and the wider school community to promote and celebrate pupils’ achievements in drama.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across departments to integrate performing arts into wider school life and curriculum.
• Develop and coordinate a drama scholarship programme, identifying and supporting talented pupils.
• Take responsibility for the theatre space, equipment, and resources, ensuring their effective use and maintenance.
• Contribute to, and help coordinate, school events and performances that showcase drama and performing arts.
• Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and the wellbeing of all pupils, in line with school policies and statutory guidance.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.
• Experience designing and delivering drama lessons for primary and early years pupils.
• Passion for drama and the performing arts.
• Excellent knowledge of the performing arts curriculum and effective teaching strategies for Reception to Year 8.
• Strong classroom and behaviour management skills.
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and engage young learners in drama.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to engage parents and the wider community.
• Good organisational and resource management skills.
• Up-to-date knowledge of safeguarding, child protection, and inclusion requirements.

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.

Visit our careers site for more information; https://jobs.inspirededu.com