Head of Performing Arts

Randstad Education; Thurrock; On-site; GBP 65,000 - 90,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

London Fringe allowance

Teachers' Pension Scheme

Healthcare cash plan

Employee Assistance Programme

CPD & leadership qualifications

Loans: ICT and season ticket

Cycle-to-work schemes

Lifestyle discounts

Job summary

Harris Academy Chafford Hundred invites an inspirational Achievement Director of Performing Arts. You will drive academic standards, shape the creative curriculum and lead the faculty to outstanding results across KS3–KS5.

In this pivotal role, you will mentor staff, monitor student progress and champion enrichment activities that nurture creative talent and foster excellence in drama and the arts.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent secondary teaching qualification.
• Proven track record of successful teaching in Drama / Performing Arts across KS3, KS4 and KS5.
• Strong leadership, organisational and communication skills with Head of Department or Phase Leader experience.

Responsibilities

• Lead and manage the Drama and Performing Arts team to ensure high-quality teaching.
• Monitor, track and elevate student progress across Years 7–13.
• Oversee curriculum and enrichment to inspire drama and the arts.

Skills

QTS or equivalent

Drama/Performing Arts leadership

Leadership & communication

Curriculum development

Education

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)

Job description

On behalf of Harris Academy Chafford Hundred, we are seeking an inspirational and visionary Achievement Director of Performing Arts ( Head of Dept. / Phase Leader).

In this pivotal leadership position, you will drive academic standards, shape the creative curriculum, and lead the Performing Arts faculty to outstanding student achievements across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5.

Key Responsibilities

• Departmental Leadership: Lead and manage the Drama and Performing Arts team to ensure high-quality classroom teaching and learning.
• Academic Standards: Monitor, track, and elevate student progress and attainment across all year groups (Years 7-13).
• Curriculum & Enrichment: Oversee a rich curriculum and foster extra‑curricular opportunities that inspire a passion for drama and the arts.
• Staff Development: Mentor and support teaching staff within the department to promote continuous professional development.

Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent secondary teaching qualification.
• Proven track record of successful teaching in Drama / Performing Arts across KS3, KS4, and Key Stage 5 / Sixth Form.
• Strong leadership, organisational, and communication skills with experience as a Head of Department or Phase Leader (or readiness to step up into the role).
• Passion for raising student achievement and nurturing creative talent.

Why Join the Harris Federation?

• Competitive Pay & Rewards: Upper Pay Scale salary with London Fringe allowance, loyalty bonuses, and Teachers' Pension Scheme.
• Health & Wellbeing: Healthcare cash plan, 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, and wellness support.
• Career Growth: Industry-leading CPD, accredited leadership qualifications, and rapid progression across 50+ academies.
• Financial Perks: Interest-free ICT and season ticket loans, electric car salary sacrifice, and cycle-to-work schemes.
• Lifestyle Discounts: Exclusive savings on high street shopping, gyms, cinemas, travel, and school uniforms

We are committed to promoting equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. We aim to create a supportive and inclusive working environment in which all individuals are able to make best use of their skills, free from discrimination or harassment.

This post is subject to an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS) check, pre-employment checks, and satisfactory references, as part of our commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people.