Head of Popular Music

ALLEYNS SCHOOL DULWICH; Greater London; On-site; GBP 40,000 - 50,000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious co-educational school in London is seeking a Head of Popular Music to establish and lead its contemporary music provision. The ideal candidate will be passionate about teaching a variety of contemporary genres, including rock and electronic music, and will collaborate closely with the music department to enhance the school's offerings. This is a dynamic opportunity for an experienced musician looking to shape an inclusive music culture that complements existing classical programs. Applications are encouraged from diverse backgrounds.

Benefits

Access to superb facilities

Various benefits detailed in the brochure

Qualifications

• Experienced musician and educator with a passion for teaching.
• Ability to lead and develop contemporary music programs.
• Skilled in classroom and individual teaching.

Responsibilities

• Lead popular music provision including rock, pop, and electronic genres.
• Develop a vibrant contemporary music culture.
• Collaborate with the Director of Music and faculty heads.

Skills

Dynamic teaching

Leadership in music education

Experience with contemporary genres

Collaboration with other music departments

Education

Relevant higher education in music

Job description

We are pleased to invite applications for the post of Head of Popular Music at Alleyn’s for the start of the Trinity Term 2026 (April) or Advent Term 2026 (September).

This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced musician and educator to establish and lead the contemporary music provision at one of London’s most ambitious and high‑performing music departments.

As one of this country’s leading co‑educational schools, music plays a pivotal role at Alleyn’s, and we are seeking a dynamic, creative, and forward‑thinking musician to develop our popular music programme across all contemporary genres.

The Head of Popular Music will work closely with the Director of Music, the Assistant Directors of Music, Heads of Faculty, and the wider departmental team to ensure that contemporary music sits alongside our other musical offerings as an equally valued and celebrated part of musical life at Alleyn’s.

They will be responsible for leading all aspects of popular music provision at Alleyn’s including rock, pop, electronic music, and other contemporary styles, and will provide support and guidance to our singer‑songwriters.

This role combines classroom teaching at KS3, individual teaching, strategic leadership, and ensemble direction, offering the opportunity to shape a vibrant and inclusive contemporary music culture that complements our already outstanding classical and jazz programmes.

Interviews are planned for Thursday 5 February.

All staff enjoy access to superb facilities and resources, as well as a variety of great benefits which are detailed in our Working at Alleyn’s brochure.

If you have any questions or would like to discuss an application, you are very welcome to contact the HR Department ([e-mail], 020 8299 8009).

Please note that suitable candidates may be interviewed before the closing date, and we reserve the right to withdraw the position if an early appointment is made.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be subject to an enhanced DBS check. Alleyn’s is an Equal Opportunities employer.

Alleyn’s welcomes applications from all applicants who meet the requirements for the position, however we are especially keen to receive applications from those in minority groups for which the School is currently underrepresented. We celebrate diversity and thrive on the benefits it brings.