Job Description

Cumnor House Sussex is inviting exceptional candidates to apply for the position of Director of Music. We are seeking an inspiring and dynamic leader with outstanding musicianship, strong management skills, and a clear vision for fostering musical excellence. The successful candidate will be a talented musician and educator, capable of motivating both pupils and staff to strive for the highest standards while cultivating a lifelong love of music.

You will be responsible for delivering a diverse and engaging music programme that balances inclusivity with excellence, ensuring every child experiences the joy of musical expression and performance. With a commitment to nurturing individual talent, you will also champion ensemble work, encouraging collaboration and confidence through regular concerts, services, and productions.

Reporting to:

The Head and Deputy Head Academic (DHA)

Principal DutiesLeadership and Management:

Lead and inspire a team of music staff, including the Assistant Director of Music, Music Administrator, and Visiting Music Teachers (VMTs), ensuring consistent excellence in teaching and performance. Oversee the recruitment, induction, and management of VMTs, facilitating their timetabling and appraisals. Develop and deliver a clear strategic vision for the Music Department, ensuring alignment with the school's co-curricular goals. Organise and maintain effective records, tracking pupil progress and ensuring clear communication with parents. Ensure that music plays a central role in the school's marketing and public profile.

Teaching and Curriculum Development:

Create and deliver an inspiring music curriculum for all year groups, promoting progression and continuity in musical education. Lead by example through outstanding classroom teaching, including preparation for Y8 Music Scholarship candidates. Foster a love of music across the school, encouraging participation and musical exploration. Keep the department handbook and development plan updated annually, ensuring relevance and innovation. Incorporate music technology into lessons, enhancing pupils' musical literacy and creativity.

Concerts, Productions, and Events:

Lead and direct key school ensembles, including choirs, orchestras, and chamber groups. Plan and deliver a diverse programme of concerts, recitals, and performances throughout the year, including the Carol Service, House Music Competition, Coffee Concerts, and Leavers' Concert. Support and prepare pupils for external performances, competitions, and music scholarships. Collaborate with the pastoral team to deliver the musical component of weekday and Sunday services. Ensure all performances reflect the school's high standards of musical excellence and presentation. Lead on music outreach initiatives, including coordinating and managing large-scale community events, fostering partnerships, and promoting the school's musical presence locally and beyond.

Facilities and Resources:

Manage and maintain the music facilities and resources to a high standard. Oversee the care and maintenance of instruments, ensuring they remain in excellent condition. Organise and optimise the use of the music rooms and performance spaces.

Safeguarding and Pastoral Care:

Ensure the safety and well-being of all pupils in the music department, in line with the school's safeguarding policies. Foster a positive and encouraging environment where pupils feel safe, supported, and inspired to achieve their best.

Desirable Qualities and Experience:

A degree in Music with exceptional musicianship and a proven track record in music education. Ability to accompany rehearsals and concerts, and to conduct/direct choirs, orchestras, and other ensembles. Excellence in teaching Key Stage 2-3 Music, with experience preparing pupils for scholarships and competitions. Strong leadership and management skills, with the ability to inspire and support colleagues. Proficient keyboard skills to ABRSM Grade 8 standard, or similar professional experience would be advantages. Proficiency in using music technology and incorporating it into the curriculum. Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with the ability to manage complex timetables and events. Warm and effective communication skills, with the ability to engage and collaborate with pupils, parents, and staff. A positive and flexible attitude, maintaining professionalism and good humour under pressure. Experience working flexibly and creatively with the Director of Drama, with the ability to collaborate on theatrical productions. Previous experience in arranging and composing original music for productions is desirable.

Remuneration and Benefits:

Competitive Salary based on experience Remission on fees for staff children attending the school or nursery. Generous contributory pension scheme and life assurance. Free on-site parking. Complimentary dining and refreshments during term time. Free use of the indoor swimming pool at specified times. Occupational sick pay scheme.

Application Process:

To apply, please complete our application form (available on our website) and submit it with a covering letter to

hr@cumnor.co.uk

We reserve the right to make an appointment at any time prior to the closing date.

Cumnor House Sussex is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. An offer of employment will be subject to an enhanced DBS disclosure, satisfactory safeguarding interview and pre-employment references, verification of ID, medical fitness, and relevant qualifications, as well as other security checks.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Benefits:

Company pension Cycle to work scheme Discounted or free food Free parking Health & wellbeing programme On-site parking Sick pay
Schedule:

Monday to Friday
Work Location: In person

Reference ID: Assistant Director of Sport
Expected start date: 01/09/2025