Head of Music

Location: Havering

Ofsted Rating: Outstanding

School Type: Secondary School & Sixth Form (Co-educational)

An Ofsted-rated ‘Outstanding’ secondary school in the London Borough of Havering is seeking an ambitious, visionary, and accomplished Head of Music to lead and elevate their high-achieving Performing Arts department. This is a premier middle-leadership opportunity for an inspirational music educator, whether an established subject lead or an exceptional Second in Department ready to step into departmental leadership, to champion musical excellence, drive academic rigor, and cultivate a rich performance culture across the school.

About the Role

As Head of Music, you will provide strategic direction, pedagogical leadership, and operational oversight for the Music curriculum across Key Stage 3, Key Stage 4 (GCSE Music), and Key Stage 5 (A-Level / Vocational Music). Leveraging state-of-the-art music technology suites, recording facilities, practice rooms, and performance spaces, you will lead a dedicated team of specialist teachers and visiting instrumental tutors to ensure every pupil experiences a world-class music education.

• Start Date: Immediate or upcoming term

• Environment: A flagship co-educational secondary school celebrated for high academic standards, creative flair, and strong community engagement

• Culture: A collegiate, well-resourced, and high-trust working environment supported by an encouraging Senior Leadership Team (SLT) and dedicated creative arts support staff

Key Responsibilities

• Spearhead the strategic vision, curriculum design, and academic performance of the Music Department across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5.

• Oversee and raise student achievement in national GCSE and A-Level/Level 3 examinations through data-informed teaching and rigorous tracking.

• Expand a vibrant co-curricular music program, directing school choirs, orchestras, contemporary bands, and showcase concerts throughout the academic year.

• Line-manage, mentor, and empower departmental colleagues and visiting peripatetic music staff, fostering continuous professional development.

• Oversee departmental budgets, resource allocation, and partnerships with local London music hubs, conservatoires, and performing arts organizations.

Requirements

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or an equivalent recognized teaching credential.

• A strong academic background with a degree in Music, Music Performance, Composition, or Music Education.

• Proven track record of outstanding Music teaching across Key Stages 3, 4, and 5, with evidence of driving high academic attainment in public examinations.

• Demonstrated leadership capability or middle management experience (e.g., 2iC, Key Stage Coordinator, or Head of Department).

• Advanced instrumental or vocal expertise, with strong confidence in conducting, arranging, and leading diverse student ensembles.

• Expert knowledge of national curriculum specifications, exam board requirements (e.g., Edexcel, AQA, Eduqas), and music technology tools (e.g., Logic Pro X, Sibelius).

Salary & Benefits

• Pay Scale: Outer London MPS/UPS pay scale + generous TLR 2b/2c (commensurate with leadership experience).

• Structured executive leadership mentoring, dedicated administrative support for major performances, and clear pathways toward Senior Leadership (SLT).

How to Apply

If you are an energetic, creative, and visionary music leader ready to shape the future of music education at an Outstanding school in Havering, we would love to hear from you. Please submit your application as soon as possible for consideration.