Teacher of Drum Kit

About the job

Eton College is seeking to appoint an experienced and committed Teacher of Drum Kit with a passion for teaching, and who will join a team of 3 other percussion teachers led by the Head of Percussion. Responsibilities will be to teach and inspire drum kit pupils across the 13-18 age range (including some of our most advanced drummers), to encourage practice and to enable technical and musical development. The successful candidate should ensure an excellent set up on the instrument as well as support on preparation for performances, competitions, exams and Music College entrance. They will also be expected to conform to the administrative and reporting procedures of the school and to be supportive of the activities of the department. Additionally, we would welcome a willingness to engage with occasional rehearsals if suited to the skills of the candidate and to teach orchestral percussion at a beginner level if required.

Eton has a busy instrumental and choral programme including four orchestras and several chamber music groups, jazz ensembles, a percussion ensemble, rock and pop societies, masterclasses with distinguished guest artists, and many percussion and contemporary commercial music performances every year.

Working Pattern

We offer flexibility regarding the working days as we recognise professional musicians have busy schedules. VMTs are contracted to give 30 lessons each academic year of flexible duration based on the students’ needs. The teaching element of this role is currently in the region of approximately 5 hours per week. However, there is an element of flexibility required in the role, and the number of lessons taught may change on a termly basis. There is no guaranteed number of pupils or hours of teaching.

Initial long-list interviews may be required and if so will take place virtually on Wednesday 30th October.

Onsite interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place on Wednesday 6th November 2024 during the afternoon.

Due to the needs of the school and the department, we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. This job may also close early if a large number of applications are received. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply.

Main Duties

• Teach individual drum kit lessons to pupils across the 13-18 age range and oversee their technical and musical progress in preparation for performances, exams, competitions etc.;
• Inspire and monitor pupils’ practice and report on their progress;
• Design lesson plans and exercises tailored to students’ needs and goals;
• Organise weekly lessons with the students and engage in a reasonable level of flexibility and communication regarding timetabling;
• Report pupils’ absences in accordance with departmental procedures;
• Engage with occasional ensemble coaching if suited to the skills of the candidate;
• Attend the annual VMT department meeting and sign up;
• Meet all administrative and reporting deadlines;
• A commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion;
• All positions at Eton are classed as ‘regulated activity’ as per the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2024 guidance, therefore a good understanding of safeguarding procedures is essential;
• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, including but not limited to, completing safeguarding training as required, and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood;
• To understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality.

The Ideal Candidate

To be successful in this role, you will need to be able to demonstrate the following:

• Previous experience of teaching pupils in the 13 to 18 age range at all levels, including advanced pupils;
• A relevant diploma, professional music degree or equivalent qualification;
• A teaching qualification is desirable but not essential;
• Proven interest and experience in drum teaching and knowledge of repertoire and exam material;
• Demonstrable experience as a drum player and teacher with thorough knowledge of relevant repertoire; Excellent organisation and interpersonal communication skills;
• That you are a ‘team’ player with ability to work flexibly as part of a team;
• Excellent and adaptable written and oral communication skills in relation to staff, students and parents;
• A positive and enthusiastic approach with a pro-active ‘can do’ attitude;
• The ability to be approachable, open and honest.

Benefits

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme, a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free or heavily discounted access to the College’s sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

About the College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity. We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online search and, where applicable, Prohibition checks. If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form.  Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS. The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as “spent” under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules. It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.