Head of Learning - Performing Arts

Coherence Consulting Limited; Tonbridge; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 55,000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Tonbridge is seeking a Head of Learning - Performing Arts to lead and manage the Performing Arts department. The role involves curriculum development for Drama and Music, coaching a dedicated team, and enhancing teaching standards. Ideal candidates will have leadership experience and a commitment to fostering creativity in education. Join a supportive environment focused on professional growth and student success.

Benefits

Supportive work environment

Opportunities for professional growth

Collaborative team culture

Qualifications

• Experience in leading and teaching Performing Arts.
• Ability to develop creative curriculum in Drama and Music.
• Strong collaboration and team leadership skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Performing Arts department and ensure high standards.
• Develop and oversee the curriculum in Drama and Music.
• Collaborate with a team of Performing Arts specialists.
• Contribute to whole-school improvement efforts.

Skills

Leadership in education

Curriculum development

Collaboration

Creativity in teaching

Job description

Overview

Leigh Academy Hugh Christie has an exciting opportunity for an engaging and enthusiastic Head of Learning - Performing Arts to join their thriving department from January 2026. The successful candidate will lead the Performing Arts department and ensure high standards of teaching and learning. If you are an experienced Performing Arts practitioner ready for a role with leadership responsibilities, we want to hear from you!

This is a chance to join and lead an enthusiastic team of Performing Arts specialists who are dedicated, driven and highly creative. The team are generous with their time and share resources and expertise, creating a real team ethos in the Performing Arts department. You will play a key role in developing our curriculum in both Drama and Music, and will have the opportunity to be involved in many exciting projects.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Performing Arts department to maintain and raise standards of teaching, learning and pupil outcomes.
• Develop and oversee the curriculum in Drama and Music, including opportunities for projects and cross-curricular work.
• Lead, coach and collaborate with a team of Performing Arts specialists to share resources and best practice.
• Foster a positive department ethos and contribute to whole-school improvement and innovation.

Why Join Us?

• A supportive environment: Collaborate with an experienced team that values innovation and creativity in teaching.
• Opportunities to grow: We value talent and ambition and are committed to supporting the professional growth of all team members, helping individuals take the next steps in their career.
• Room to excel: Teaching both Drama and Music is possible, but not essential; what matters is dedication to student success and personal/professional growth.

Working with us

Leigh Academy Hugh Christie is a thriving secondary academy within Leigh Academies Trust, committed to delivering academic excellence, strong pastoral support, and meaningful community engagement. We offer a broad and inclusive curriculum that meets the diverse needs of our students, combining traditional subjects with vocational pathways and enrichment opportunities. We also focus on personal development, wellbeing and character education to help students grow into confident, resilient, and well-rounded individuals.

Applying for this Opportunity

Thank you for your interest in joining us. If you’d like to find out more about this role or arrange a visit to the academy, please contact Amy Wenban (Recruitment Advisor): 01634 412 205. To support your application, view the Job Pack which outlines the full role responsibilities and person specification to guide your application.

Early applications are encouraged; we reserve the right to interview before the closing date. All applications must be submitted through our online application form prior to the deadline.

Safeguarding, Equality & Diversity

Leigh Academies Trust and all of our academies are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of pupils. We adopt a fair, robust and consistent recruitment process in line with Keeping Children Safe in Education guidance. This includes online checks for shortlisted candidates, and offers are subject to an Enhanced DBS check, references, and any applicable checks. We are committed to equality and fairness and do not discriminate on any grounds.