Head of Performing Arts

Outwood; Barnsley; On-site; GBP 51,000 - 58,000; Full time

Job summary

A local educational academy in Barnsley is seeking an experienced Head of Performing Arts to lead their dynamic team. The role emphasizes leadership in music and drama, ensuring a high-quality curriculum and supportive teaching environment. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in education, specifically in performing arts, and be committed to enhancing student success. This position offers full-time employment and the opportunity to impact students’ lives positively.

Benefits

Comprehensive professional development opportunities

Access to well-resourced facilities for arts education

Qualifications

• Experience in a leadership role within education.
• Strong background in music and performing arts.
• Proven track record of driving improvement in student outcomes.

Responsibilities

• Lead the Performing Arts Faculty and drive improvement.
• Ensure ambitious curriculum planning and effective teaching.
• Develop a professional learning culture among staff.

Skills

Leadership

Teaching ability in Music

Curriculum development

Staff development

Commitment to student success

Education

Qualified Teacher Status

Job description

Description

• Role : Head of Performing Arts
• Academy : Outwood AcademyShafton
• Start Date : As soon as possible
• Salary (Actual Salary) : L1 51773 to L5 57137
• Working Pattern : Standard Teaching Hours

Outwood Academy Shafton is seeking a dynamic passionate leader to head our successful Performing Arts Faculty (Music & Drama).

The Candidate & The Role

Are you an inspirational Performing Arts specialist ready to take on a Head of Faculty role? We are looking for an energetic leader with a strong background in Music (essential teaching ability) and a deep knowledge of Teaching and Learning.

You will be expected to

• Drive Improvement: Lead with clear direction to elevate the faculty’s performance.
• Curriculum & Environment: Ensure a broad ambitious curriculum is planned and that an effective teaching and learning environment is consistently provided.
• Culture: Develop a highly effective professional learning culture that supports colleagues continuous development.
• Students First: Share our unwavering commitment to putting Students First, making a life-changing impact on every child’s success.

This role is ideal for experienced subject teachers seeking progression into senior leadership or current Department Heads looking to join a high‑performing organization.

The Faculty & Resources

The Music department at Shafton has 2 very well‑resourced rooms with a suite of macs and keyboards (running GarageBand) and class sets of guitars and ukuleles. We also have 5 well‑resourced practice rooms.

The Drama department has 2 purpose‑built teaching spaces with stage lighting and curtains. We also have the use of a dynamic and versatile performance space with professional lighting and sound equipment.

Teaching and learning is exceptionally led across the academy by a team of experienced SLT team and middle leaders who ensure a curriculum for our students which will set them up for lifelong success.

The continuing professional development of staff is important here at Outwood Academy Shafton. Staff have access to a wide range of CPD including a number of one‑off sessions.

From the Principal

Thank you for your interest in the vacancy at Outwood Academy Shafton.

As Principal I am thrilled to introduce our academy as a true place of belonging in Shafton Barnsley. Kindness, compassion, high standards and the highest quality teaching are our core business every single day.

Having worked in this school community for 26 years I feel absolute pride seeing our students flourish. Every member of staff is deeply committed to providing the very best life chances for our students. Many colleagues have been part of our journey from the start and we are unbelievably proud of the transformation we bring to our young people and the whole community.

As part of the Outwood Family renowned for transforming lives and raising standards we would be delighted to welcome you to our team if you share our passion and dedication.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss the role or arrange a visit please contact Davina Mellor Vice Principal.

For more information and to apply online please click the apply button.

Closing date

Midday on Thursday 11 December 2025.

Required Experience

• Director

Key Skills

• Marketing & Promotions
• Attorney At Law
• Jni
• Airlines
• Art

Employment Type

Full-Time

Experience

years

Vacancy

1