Head of Academic Music

About the job

Required: September 2025 or January 2026

Whether you are a talented Music Teacher who is aspiring to middle management, or an experienced, existing Head of Music, this is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in the continued development of the thriving musical life of Streatham & Clapham High School (SCHS).

Working closely with the Director of Music, you will take responsibility for the academic provision and outcomes of pupils in the senior school at all key stages and oversee a vibrant and challenging curriculum, building on a strong track record of examination results.

You will lead the vision for and delivery of the Music curriculum in line with the department development plan and foster a love of Music in all pupils, regardless of their skills or experience, leading by example and promoting excellence in teaching and learning.

You will be responsible for the maintenance of schemes of work from Year 7 to Year 13, ensuring progress and continuity between key stages and monitor pupils’ work and the classroom practice of those in the department to ensure that high standards are maintained and that the delivery of schemes of work is consistent.

You will also arrange various enrichment activities for pupils and work with the Director of Music to contribute to the Music Scholars’ programme of activities, acting as a champion for academic music.

Music at Streatham & Clapham High School (SCHS)

You will be part of a Music department that celebrates the musical ability of all pupils and provides opportunities for girls to experience a range of instruments. We have regular opportunities to perform large-scale choral and orchestral works in prestigious venues. The school rotates a choral work and a musical each year; the most recent productions being ‘School of Rock: The Musical’ and ‘Little Shop of Horrors’. We also host an annual Jazz Festival, where our band and other musicians accompany instrumental and vocal soloists.

About You

A good honours degree, or equivalent, in Music from a leading university, is essential.

High expectations, and the ability to inspire, excite and motivate pupils are equally important, as are strong classroom teaching skills and a commitment to sustained improvement in this area.

You will need to be able to develop a good rapport with pupils, engage them in their learning, and ensure that high standards are maintained.

Good Piano / Organ skills are also desirable.

About Streatham & Clapham High School

Streatham & Clapham High School is a vibrant, exciting and fulfilling place in which to work. The School is characterised by a warm, welcoming and supportive atmosphere. New colleagues are supported through a personalised induction programme.

As part of the GDST, the UK's leading network of independent girls' schools, we can offer a variety of benefits, such as:

• Competitive salaries and pay progression
• Access to extensive professional development opportunities
• Training grants for qualifications
• Generous pension schemes
• Free life assurance benefit
• A discount of up to 50% on fees for children at GDST schools
• Free lunches for all staff during term time
• Interest free loans for training, computer purchase loans and travel season ticket loans
• A Cycle to Work scheme
• Good transport links
• Competitive terms and conditions of employment

For further details and to apply please click the apply button.

Applications should be received no later than 08:00, Monday 19 May 2025.

Interviews will take place shortly thereafter, though the school reserves the right to appoint an exceptional candidate at any stage of the application process.

The GDST is committed to diversity, inclusion and real change: a family where every individual is valued, respected and included.

We are committed to the safeguarding of children and child protection screening will apply to this post.