Director of Music

About us

Doha College is a high-profile, leading, not-for-profit British International School for children aged 3–18. Its vision is to enable personal growth, instil a passion for learning, and create aspirational minds, whilst offering a well-balanced, all-embracing curriculum that follows the English National Curriculum. It was the first High Performance Learning accredited school in the world and has consistently outstanding educational achievements and excellent examination results at all stages. 

We have been established in Qatar for over 40 years under the patronage of the British Embassy. This is an exceptional opportunity to play a part in the continual improvement of a school with an already worldwide-renowned reputation for excellence. With 2,500 students and 350 staff, the school is a vibrant international community that subscribes to equal opportunities for all. An exciting time for the school, we moved to a brand-new, 90,000m² state-of-the-art campus, amalgamating two previous sites and ensuring the College’s place at the forefront of educational provision in world-class facilities.

The opportunity

We are looking to appoint an experienced, dynamic and enthusiastic Director of Music with the ability to teach from KS1 to A Level. Specialist knowledge in orchestral music performance would be an advantage, along with the ability to teach composition as well as the skills and aptitudes required at all Key Stages. A keen interest in directing and contributing to a vast array of extra-curricular musical ensembles on a weekly basis would be a welcome addition. Experience in music technology and sound knowledge of music APPs would enable a smooth start in our digitally advanced learning environment. We are looking for a successful leader who has a strong track record of bringing about effective and collaborative change in a variety of contexts including forging successful links within departments as well as with the outside community.

Our Music classrooms are equipped with keyboards, Rock-band instruments, iMacs, surround sound, interactive smartboards, grand pianos and synthesizers. In addition to this, we have further practice rooms fully equipped for a 6-person band, including drums, bass and electric guitar plus keyboards.  

The Music Department runs an incredible array of events throughout the year from National Battle of the Bands in the Secondary School, to Qatar School Choir of the Year - a large choral event for children age 5 to 18. We also attend Young Musician of the Gulf annually and this year are due to host the global COBIS Music competition. This is in addition to a full complement of internal concerts, productions and recitals. We are a busy and thriving team that requires energy, passion and commitment from its members.

All students are furnished with an iPad upon entry, and all staff and students use Google Classroom.

About you

The successful candidate will be a professional, who understands the holistic rewards of the subject and, above all else, has a genuine passion for all aspects of the role. You should demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and a proven track record of achieving success for your students, with a willingness to contribute in a positive manner to all aspects of the school vision, including extra-curricular activities. Health and safety are obviously paramount, and an up-to-date health and safety certificate would be beneficial.

As the Director of Music, you will be responsible for setting the tone and ethos of the Primary and Secondary Music departments, for Music at the college and for articulating a clear vision that staff and students will work towards. You will lead and inspire staff and pupils, plan a diverse programme of concerts and musical events, foster links with local Qatari and other music organisations, encourage participation in music competitions at all levels, and take responsibility for all aspects of teaching, learning and enjoyment of music within and beyond the curriculum. You will monitor and evaluate the students’ achievement as well as the staff’s contribution towards accomplishing the college’s development plan, vision and mission. The successful candidate will be an outstanding role model within the Music Department and Doha College as a whole.

A high standard of written and spoken English is an essential requirement for all our positions.

Qatar

A combination of old-world hospitality and cosmopolitan sophistication means that Qatar is a country like no other, and its capital Doha is a city that has something for everyone. Performances, museums and galleries make for a captivating cultural scene; city hotspots such as the busy markets and the waterfront promenade are a great way to spend a day; there is a lively night-life that means that there is plenty to do when the sun goes down; the Pearl Qatar offers luxury and elegance; there are some breath-taking areas of natural beauty, and lovers of sport and adventure can enjoy numerous clubs and activities. Whether you are looking to move with your family or to come on your own, you are guaranteed a warm welcome. 

In return

Our tax-free salary and benefits package is recognised as one of the best in the Middle East. We also have a comprehensive induction and orientation programme, which allows new staff to effectively navigate the challenges that come with an international move. Valuing the importance of recruiting and retaining the best staff, the professional development offered at Doha College is significant. We welcome applications from Newly Qualified Teachers who have relevant experience and excellent references.

Please note: Due to government requirements, we can only consider applicants who are below 50 years old for this position. 

To see our vision in action and find out what makes our school so amazing, click here: vimeo.com/667248321 

To find out more, please visit: www.dohacollege.com/discover/careers 

Closing date: 8 January 2023

Longlist process: As part of the selection process, longlisted candidates will be required to complete a Pre-recorded Micro-teach, which you will then submit to us. The recorded Micro-teach should be 10 minutes in length of your continuous teaching (live in class). Further details will be provided.

Shortlist process: Interviews will take place mid/end of January 2023 and shortlisted applicants will be required to submit a digital portfolio.

We reserve the right to close a position once we have received sufficient applications to form a shortlist. Early application is therefore encouraged.

Doha College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening, including reference checks with previous employers and a criminal records check. Teaching staff will also be subject to a Barred List and Prohibition from Teaching Check. This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and the amendments to the Exceptions Order 1975, 2013 and 2020.

As an equal opportunities employer, Doha College is committed to a culture of equality, diversity and inclusion. We believe that a diverse staff body reflects and supports the diversity of our students and wider society and leads to a cognitive diversity, which promotes excellence in all areas.