Director of Music (Jan 2027

St John's Beaumont is seeking an outstanding Director of Music to lead one of the school's flagship departments at a particularly exciting point in its development.

Music occupies a central place within the life of St John's Beaumont. It enriches our worship, strengthens our sense of community and provides countless opportunities for pupils to develop confidence, creativity and self-expression.

The successful candidate will inherit many strengths. Our dedicated Music School provides excellent facilities, instrumental lessons are exceptionally well supported and pupils enjoy a rich programme of concerts, ensembles, productions and Chapel music. Alongside these strengths is a genuine opportunity to shape the future direction of music across the school, developing scholarship pathways, strengthening partnerships and building upon an already vibrant musical culture.

The Role:

The Director of Music is responsible for the strategic leadership and day-to-day management of Music throughout St John's Beaumont from Nursery to Year 8.

We are seeking an exceptional musician who combines outstanding musicianship with inspirational teaching and thoughtful leadership. Someone who understands that musical excellence and broad participation are not competing ambitions but complementary ones. Someone who will nurture individual talent whilst ensuring that every child experiences the confidence, creativity and enjoyment that music can bring.

The successful candidate will:

• Lead curriculum music from Nursery to Year 8.
• Direct the Chapel Choir, orchestra and instrumental ensembles.
• Oversee a thriving programme of concerts, recitals, productions and Chapel music.
• Lead and support our team of Visiting Music Teachers.
• Prepare pupils for Music Scholarships and senior school auditions.
• Develop and communicate a compelling vision for Music across the school.

Qualifications,

Skills and Experience:

• A good honours degree in Music or a closely related discipline.
• Evidence of ongoing professional development.
• Successful experience teaching Music across the primary or preparatory age range, with a proven record of excellent classroom practice.
• Experience leading choirs, ensembles and musical performances, and organising concerts, productions and major musical events.
• Outstanding practical musicianship and the ability to accompany rehearsals and performances, with excellent piano accompaniment skills desirable.
• The ability to articulate and implement a clear vision for Music, inspiring colleagues and pupils through positive leadership.
• A passion for music education, a collaborative approach and a commitment to contributing to the wider life of the school.

Working with Us:

At St John's Beaumont, our people are our greatest strength. We believe that an exceptional education is only possible because of exceptional staff who are committed to inspiring children, supporting one another and continually striving for excellence.

We seek colleagues who are ambitious, reflective and collaborative. In return, we provide a professional environment where staff are trusted, supported and encouraged to develop throughout their careers, alongside a competitive salary and an excellent range of staff benefits.

Above all, we are looking for someone who will become one of the defining adults in our pupils' lives. Great Directors of Music are remembered long after children leave school. They inspire confidence, uncover talent, create lifelong memories and foster a love of music that stays with pupils for years to come.