Director of Music

Tes is supporting the appointment of a Director of Music to join a school based in Highgate, London. The School is seeking to appoint an outstanding, inspiring and highly accomplished Director of Music to lead all aspects of academic and co-curricular music in the Senior School from January or April 2027. This is an exciting opportunity to lead a vibrant and ambitious Music Department with an established culture of musical excellence and participation.

At the school, “Music for all” is their mantra. They are committed to providing a stimulating, inclusive musical environment in which pupils of all ages and abilities are encouraged to develop their confidence, creativity and musicianship, whether performing individually, as part of an ensemble, or pursuing music academically. Music is a central and highly visible part of school life. The department benefits from excellent facilities, including 13 practice and teaching rooms, a fully soundproofed percussion studio and a dedicated Music Technology room equipped with 26 iMacs and full-size Yamaha keyboards.

Each week, pupils can take part in around 24 co-curricular musical activities, ranging from Theory Club and choirs to Jazz Band and Concert Orchestra, alongside regular lunchtime recitals and formal concerts. The successful candidate will provide strategic, academic and artistic leadership for Music across the Senior School, while working closely with the Head of Music in the Junior School. They will lead a talented team of teaching staff, Heads of Section, Visiting Music Staff and the Music School Manager, and will oversee a busy programme of concerts, ensembles, examinations, trips and performances.

The role combines strong departmental leadership with a highly visible practical contribution to the musical life of the School. The Director of Music will teach across KS3–KS5, including GCSE and A level, direct significant ensembles and performances, oversee the annual concert programme and co-curricular provision, and lead the music for the bi-annual musical and bi-annual music trip. The successful candidate will also be a confident pianist, capable of accompanying musicians at Grade 8 and diploma level.

The Director of Music will also play an important role in the wider life of the School, working collaboratively with colleagues across Sport, Drama, Admissions and the Junior School, supporting the Music Scholarship process and helping to ensure that music remains a distinctive and celebrated part of the school's educational experience. They are looking for an experienced and inspirational teacher and leader with a strong track record of high-quality teaching, excellent musicianship, sound organisational skills and the ability to lead colleagues with warmth, professionalism and ambition.

The successful candidate will share the school's Unitarian ethos and commitment to developing fearless learners through inspiring education, exceptional co-curricular opportunities and meaningful partnerships. For further information, please refer to the Job Description document provided. Hours: Full Time Start Date: January or April 2027 Salary & Benefits: • Competitive salary scale, dependent on qualifications and experience • Enrolment into the APTIS pension scheme (10% employer contribution, minimum 2% employee contribution) • Laptop and iPad provided • Free lunch and refreshments throughout the day • Use of School sports facilities when available • Annual flu vaccination and Employee Assistance Programme • Extensive CPD and INSET opportunities, with scope for professional progression How to Apply Please complete the TES application form by clicking on Apply below.

CVs will not be accepted in place of a completed application form. Interviews: First-round online interviews: Friday 25 September 2026 (max 1 hour) Second-round in-person interviews: Friday 2 October 2026 (all day) Safeguarding Commitment The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young peo