A top-performing secondary academy in Reading is seeking an ambitious, academically distinguished Lead Practitioner of Music to drive whole-school teaching standards, curriculum innovation, and post-16 outcomes on a full-time, permanent basis starting in January.

Job Overview

As Lead Practitioner, you will combine exemplary classroom teaching with strategic responsibility for raising pedagogical standards in Music across Key Stages 3, 4 (GCSE), and 5 (A-Level / Music Technology). You will model outstanding practice, mentor early-career teachers, lead whole-school voice and performance initiatives, and design rigorous composition and analysis schemes of work.

Working closely with senior leadership and the Expressive Arts faculty, you will oversee curriculum alignment, digital music technology integration (Logic Pro, Sibelius), and advanced ensemble coaching. This is a full-time, permanent contract.

Key Responsibilities

• Model outstanding classroom practice across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level / Music Tech)

• Lead whole-school music pedagogy workshops, peer coaching, and lesson observation feedback across the arts faculty

• Design, refine, and audit music schemes of work, ensuring alignment with national standards and university-entry expectations

• Oversee the quality of instrumental/vocal peripatetic tuition and ensemble performances

• Mentor early-career teachers (ECTs) and subject specialists to improve student engagement and examination outcomes

• Analyze performance data across all key stages to implement targeted academic interventions for high-attaining and SEND pupils

Role Overview & Specifications

• Start Date: January

• Contract Type: Full-time, permanent contract

• Location: Reading, Berkshire

• Salary / Pay Rate: Lead Practitioner Scale (LP1–LP5 equivalent)

• Key Curriculum: Eduqas / AQA / Pearson Music

Candidate Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) with an honors degree in Music, Performance, or Composition

• Proven track record of consistently outstanding classroom teaching and exceptional GCSE/A-Level exam outcomes

• Experience in whole-school teaching and learning coaching, curriculum development, or departmental leadership

• Advanced practical musicianship (keyboard/piano accompaniment skills and choral/ensemble conducting proficiency)

• An active enhanced DBS check on the Update Service (or willingness to apply)

How to Apply: Please send your CV at your earliest convenience to be considered for this Lead Practitioner of Music position in Reading for a January start.