Head of Performing Arts

Job Overview

We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic individual to be our new Head of Performing Arts.

Hollygirt School aims to develop the whole child. We believe that academic progress and personal development are equally important to preparing children for life beyond school.

The Head of Performing Arts is responsible for the development of Performing Arts and Music throughout the Prep and Senior School and for managing the various resources made available to the department. They should ensure that pupils are positively encouraged to develop their potential to the full both in curriculum lessons and extra-curricular opportunities. 

They are expected to foster a lively and enthusiastic atmosphere within the department for both pupils and staff. 

Job Description

Curriculum, Staff and Administration  

1.  To plan, implement and review the curriculum of the department  
2. To represent the department in all matters relating to the curriculum within the school, within curriculum committee and full staff meetings 
3. To liaise with other department heads in the Senior School/class teachers in Prep School 
4. To plan future developments of the subject 
5. To contribute towards school development planning 
6. To manage effectively the administration of the department including GCSE entries, updating schemes of work, updating the departmental handbook, assessments and reports  
7. To organise and oversee all visits and events planned within and in conjunction with the department 
8. To liaise with the Head in all matters concerned with the timetable 
9. To prepare requisitions for the department for books, equipment and stationery 
10. To monitor the departmental expenditure (where applicable) 
11. To ensure that stock and equipment are well cared for and economically used and stock lists are kept up to date 
12. To ensure that the departmental rooms present a stimulating environment and displays are changed regularly 
13. To oversee the work of the peripatetic staff 
14. To participate in the school’s appraisal and professional development arrangements 
15. Organise and oversee school productions 

 Pupils 

1.  To act as a Form Tutor in Senior School as required 
2. To ensure that assessment is both regular and thorough and that full records of work done by pupils are kept 
3. To be responsible for the advice and guidance given to pupils when choosing courses, particularly in Year 9 and to assist with post 16 choices 
4. To assess new entrants for possible music scholarships 

Extra-Curricular Contribution  

Built into this role is an expectation of contribution to the extra-curricular programme in the school to facilitate the pupils’ broader education and to offer opportunities for individual and group performance internally and externally. Whole school events and other opportunities to perform in public are integral to the marketing and promotion of the school and developing these are a key feature of the role.  

Currently the Head of Performing Arts contributes as follows: 

1.  Manages the Senior and Prep choirs and assists with the vocal group 
2. Compiles and rehearses an entertainment programme for Prize Giving, including items from the above groups as well as solo items. 
3. Organises the Carols formal service and rehearses the choirs and soloists for this occasion 
4. Assists with and rehearses the music for the Prep Christmas show/nativity 
5. Organises performances, as applicable, for Open Days and/or other school events. 
6. Promotes and organises the House Music Competitions in Prep and Senior School  
7. Organises internal and external concerts 

This is not an exhaustive list but it is representative of the current post holder’s responsibilities. 

The Candidate

The successful candidate will be able to demonstrate:

1. Proven experience in a similar role
2. Excellent inter-personal and communication skills
3. Commitment to building strong home/school links
4. Commitment to developing the Performing Arts curriculum
5. Passionate about offering extra curricular activities
6. Ability to plan and deliver exciting and thorough lessons adapted to the needs of all pupils
7. Ensure Pupils make excellent progress

The salary will be commensurate with the experience and qualifications of the successful candidate.

"The school embodies its ethos of kindness, honesty, resilience and hard work, successfully enabling the pupils to develop respect for themselves, the school and the community."

ISI Inspection 2022, to read more, click here

Closing date for applications: Sunday 23 February 2025 at 5pm.

Provisional Interview Date: Wednesday 26 February 2025

If you would like to discuss the role and find out more about the school before the interview, please contact Chris Bowker, Bursar at bursar@hollygirt.co.uk

Hollygirt School is committed to safeguarding children. A full DBS disclosure will be required for all successful applicants.