Visiting Cello Teacher

We are looking for an enthusiastic and able self-employed cello teacher, who will be fully committed to the work of the department and will contribute positively to its development. Working closely with the Director of Music, the post holder will be a professional musician with relevant performing/teaching qualifications and experience of teaching cello from beginner to diploma level. The post holder will teach individual lessons throughout the junior and senior schools. 

The Music Department 

The Music Department is a thriving and welcoming place where pupils are encouraged to embrace music in all styles as a means of self-expression and personal development. 

Students in Year 7 have the opportunity to participate in an instrumental scheme, receiving free tuition on orchestral instruments and engaging in ensemble performances. The department runs a comprehensive programme of extra-curricular activities including choirs, orchestras, wind, brass and swing bands. There are many performance opportunities for pupils at Colfe’s ranging from high-profile events in external venues to informal platform concerts and assemblies. We have also formed a partnership with Trinity Laban Conservatoire and are host a recital series to showcase their talented students, from which our pupils can take inspiration. 

Our pupils have gained places in prestigious ensembles such as the National Children’s Orchestra and London Schools Symphony Orchestra and a number of students go on to study Music at university or conservatoire. 

Across the Junior and Senior Schools our peripatetic teachers teach approximately three hundred instrumental lessons per week. The department has an excellent record in ABRSM and Trinity exams, with over 75% of pupils achieving a distinction or merit since March 2019. 

Main Duties 

TEACHING AND LEARNING 

• Teach 30-minute lessons to individual pupils as requested by the Director of Music 
• Deliver inspirational and engaging lessons that demonstrate awareness of the individual ability and needs of each pupil 
• Liaise with Learning Support staff where appropriate to accommodate the specific requirements of SEN pupils 
• Prepare and encourage pupils to take part in public performances 
• Encourage pupils to participate in school ensembles according to their ability and progress 
• Prepare pupils for practical music examinations and liaise with the Music Administrator to enter pupils for ABRSM examinations 
• Direct and assist ensemble rehearsals as requested by the Director of Music 

ADMINISTRATION 

• Keep an accurate and up-to-date register of lessons and pupil progress 
• Ensure that pupils are aware of their weekly practice requirements 
• Provide feedback to the Director of Music regarding pupil progress and any causes for concern (e.g. pupil attendance, lack of progress) 
• Maintain regular communication with parents, dealing with queries involving music lessons and other musical issues promptly and professionally 
• Write reports once a year on each pupil’s work and progress 

PROFESIONAL RESPONSIBILITIES 

• Attend compulsory INSET training at the beginning of the academic year 
• Work in accordance with school’s policies and procedures as detailed on the school’s website and as set out in the Staff Handbook, ensuring compliance with the School’s Code of Conduct, the Safeguarding Policy and Child Protection procedures, the school’s Health and Safety policy and the Health and Safety at Work Act.
• Be a role model to pupils through personal presentation, dress and professional conduct 
• Any other duties as reasonably requested by the Director of Music 

 Application procedure: The recruitment process will require all applicants to complete an application form, accompanied by a letter of application, current CV and details of two referees, who will be contacted prior to interview, in accordance with the School’s Safer Recruitment procedures. There will be an interview and lesson observation for short listed candidates.

The application may be submitted either electronically or by post, to:

Post: Electronic:

Mrs A Ross recruitment@colfes.com

Human Resources 

Colfe’s School

Horn Park Lane

London SE12 8AW

Applications should be sent as soon as possible and by NOON, Monday 1 November at the latest. Colfe’s reserves the right to appoint to this post before the closing date if necessary.

Colfe’s School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure & Barring Service.