Director of Music

Appointment of a Director of Music for September 2018 (or by negotiation for the ideal candidate)

An exciting opportunity has arisen to be the Director of Music at Exeter Cathedral School, a 900-year-old and musically-alive Choir School with some 260 pupils aged 3-13.

The Headmaster and Governors are seeking to appoint a dynamic and inspirational person to this high-profile post. Music is absolutely central to the life of the School. Founded in the 12th century as a chorister school, ECS now educates boys and girls with a broad range of talents and interests, including the Choristers of Exeter Cathedral, and the School’s musical heritage continues to be a crucial part of its identity. Our aim is to foster a culture of inclusivity and ‘music for all’ but with a mindfulness for realising the potential of our most gifted pupil musicians. ECS has a celebrated track record of 13+ music scholarships to leading senior schools (19 awarded in 2017).

The successful candidate is likely to be a genuinely outstanding individual with exceptional credentials as a musician. S/he is likely to have considerable experience of high-level music-making, substantial leadership/management experience, and will have the energy and vision to be a role model for pupils and staff. A sensitivity and regard for the traditions and past achievements of the Department will need to be combined with the vision to seek out new ideas and inspire the confidence of colleagues, pupils and parents in pursuing them. The ability to work co-operatively alongside the Department of Liturgy and Music at the Cathedral, and to be mindful of the demands made on the Choristers, is a prerequisite.

This is an exciting opportunity to play a major role in shaping the future direction of music and music–making at the School. The Director of Music will enjoy an appropriate level of autonomy and will be supported by a dynamic and ambitious Senior Leadership Team, part of whose vision is for Exeter Cathedral School to be recognised as a beacon of musical excellence.

For an ‘Information for Candidates’ pack and an application form, please contact the Bursar’s Assistant, Mrs Rosie Hankin: r.hankin@exetercs.org. Information about the School can be found at www.exetercathedralschool.co.uk. Additionally, potential candidates are very welcome to book a visit to the School and/or to have an informal conversation about the post with the Headmaster.

The deadline for applications is 12 noon on Thursday 1st March 2018.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates are likely to take place during the week beginning 5th March and/or the week beginning 12th March 2018. The School reserves the right to interview and appoint at any time.

Exeter Cathedral School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all employees to share this commitment. The successful applicant will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).