Head of Music (Secondary)

Geneva English School is a small, not-for-profit international school, which provides a high-quality, innovative and holistic education and is known for its inspiring environment, friendly community and all-round excellence. The secondary campus, which is situated in Versoix just outside Geneva and about 3km from our early years and primary site in Genthod, was established in 2016 and is developing and growing rapidly, adding one year group every academic year. 

Our secondary site is set within an architect-designed, modern building with state-of-the art classrooms (including a fully equipped science lab and art studio) and a performance space that houses an elegant refurbished Pleyel grand piano. Music resources include two dedicated practice rooms for individual lessons and a set of keyboards for class teaching. The pupils all have their own iPads at school.

We are looking to appoint a part-time (initially 12.5%) Head of Music for January or September 2019, who will lead and develop music and musical education at GES Secondary. We currently have classes in Years 7, 8 and 9 and will be adding Year 10 from September 2019. Pupils in Key Stage 3 have one hour of class music per week. Although we have not currently planned for a GCSE course at Key Stage 4, the School is growing rapidly and opportunities to expand our offering in both curricular and extra-curricular music will be available to an enthusiastic and enterprising candidate. Some pupils learn individual instruments, including voice, at school and there will be opportunities to build a programme of ensembles, informal and formal concerts, and musical shows. At Key Stage 5 we plan to offer a pioneering A-level Baccalaureate, based on UK A-levels and incorporating the best elements of broad, modern international and interdisciplinary programmes.

Tasks and responsibilities

The role involves developing and leading all aspects of music at GES Secondary, initially teaching class music lessons to pupils in years 7, 8 and 9. Close liaison with the Head of Music at GES Primary will be important, as we seek to provide continuity of education and encourage the sharing of ideas across the whole school.

This is an exciting time to be joining GES Secondary as there is opportunity to shape and develop music in a really engaging and exciting way as the school evolves.

Personal qualities

At GES, we keep an open mind in the consideration of any applicant who believes they have something special and valuable to contribute, including outstanding newly qualified teachers and people from other industries or professions.

Essential

• Experience of teaching Music at Key Stage 3 and beyond
• Proficiency as a practicing musician, including skills in conducting, accompanying and arranging
• An enthusiastic and creative approach to teaching, which inspires pupils and enables learning to be engaging and relevant
• A commitment to ensuring pupils develop a broad range of skills and attributes
• A commitment to an interconnected curriculum and to working with colleagues across a range of disciplines
• An ability to communicate effectively with pupils, colleagues and parents and to work as part of a collaborative team
• An interest in education beyond the classroom and across the age ranges
• Flexibility, a sense of humour, and a willingness to contribute to all aspects of school life, including trips, projects, special events and extracurricular clubs

Desirable

• A degree and/or higher level qualifications in Music
• Good keyboard skills
• Qualified teacher status 

How to apply

Apply by submitting a completed GES application form to the Head of HR (Ms Aurore Alefsen: hr@geschool.ch) before noon on 17 October 2018. A brief covering letter to the Head and/or curriculum vitae may be submitted in addition but will not be accepted in place of a complete application form. Interviews will be held at the School on Thursday 1 November. The application form, together with further information about the School and our recruitment procedures, is available on our website at http://www.geschool.ch/about/work-with-us.

Safer recruitment

Geneva English School 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 checks with past employers and enhanced national/international criminal records checks.

Please note that in order to be considered for interview, candidates must submit the completed application form before the deadline.