At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Keyboard Department, teach music, and accompany performances.
- Company: Christ’s Hospital is a unique independent school focused on social mobility and diversity.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, potential accommodation, and involvement in a vibrant boarding community.
- Why this job: Join a passionate team in a diverse environment that values innovation and inspires students.
- Qualifications: Must be a qualified graduate with a strong enthusiasm for teaching music.
- Other info: Early application is encouraged; interviews may occur before the closing date.
The predicted salary is between 48177 - 53282 £ per year.
Christ’s Hospital wishes to appoint an outstanding pianist and teacher as Head of Keyboard. The appointee will lead the large Keyboard Department. The enhanced role of Assistant Director of Music (Performance) may be available for the right candidate.
For nearly five centuries, Christ’s Hospital has pioneered social mobility and challenged social inequality to provide an unrivalled start in life for disadvantaged children. As economic and social inequality continue to grow in the UK, Christ’s Hospital’s mission is as relevant today as it was in 1552. The school is unique, with a richly diverse pupil body, in terms of ethnicity and socio-economic background. More than 75% of our pupils are on some form of financial support, with a considerable number receiving full bursaries.
We are currently conducting a search for a well-qualified and enthusiastic Assistant Director of Music (Performance) and Head of Keyboard from January 2026 or earlier if the person is available sooner. This is an exciting prospect for the right person to be part of a unique educational environment.
The successful applicant will lead the large Keyboard Department including:
- allocating students and accompanists;
- taking the lead role in accompanying concerts, examinations, and other performances;
- teaching;
- contributing to the wider life of a busy boarding school.
The successful applicant will be a well-qualified and capable graduate with an enthusiasm for the teaching of Music in a large co-educational boarding school. Innovation, flair, and vision are highly valued, as is the ability to inspire pupils both inside and outside the classroom. Applicants should evidence in their personal statement how they meet the requirements of the role and person specification.
Salary for the Head of Keyboard position is commensurate with experience and paid in accordance with the Christ’s Hospital salary scale up to £48,177 per annum. An allowance of £5,105 is available for the Assistant Director of Music (Performance) responsibility. Full participation in the broader life of this busy boarding community is essential and accommodation on-site may be available.
Early application is encouraged and we reserve the right to interview candidates prior to the closing date. Interview date: w/c 2 June 2025.
Christ’s Hospital is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All successful applicants are required to complete an enhanced disclosure application with the DBS (Disclosure and Barring Service).
Head of Keyboard and Assistant Director of Music (Performance) employer: HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
Contact Detail:
HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference) Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Keyboard and Assistant Director of Music (Performance)
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with Christ’s Hospital's unique ethos and history. Understanding their commitment to social mobility and diversity will help you align your teaching philosophy with their mission, making you a more appealing candidate.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your leadership skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully managed music departments or led ensembles in the past. Highlighting your ability to inspire and innovate within a musical context will set you apart.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff at Christ’s Hospital if possible. Gaining insights into the school culture and expectations can provide you with valuable information to tailor your approach during interviews.
✨Tip Number 4
Prepare to discuss your vision for the Keyboard Department and how you would contribute to the wider life of the school. Being able to articulate your ideas clearly will demonstrate your enthusiasm and readiness for the role.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Keyboard and Assistant Director of Music (Performance)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role: Before applying, make sure you fully understand the responsibilities of the Head of Keyboard and Assistant Director of Music (Performance). Familiarise yourself with the school's mission and values, as this will help you tailor your application.
Craft a Compelling Personal Statement: Your personal statement should clearly demonstrate how your qualifications and experiences align with the role. Highlight your teaching philosophy, experience in music performance, and any innovative approaches you've used in your teaching.
Showcase Relevant Experience: In your CV and application form, emphasise your experience in leading music departments, teaching piano, and any roles that involved working with diverse student populations. Include specific examples of your contributions to music education and performance.
Follow Application Instructions: Ensure you complete the application form as specified in the job listing. Remember that CVs must be accompanied by the application form, and double-check for any additional documents required before submission.
How to prepare for a job interview at HMC (Headmasters' and Headmistresses' Conference)
✨Showcase Your Passion for Music Education
During the interview, express your enthusiasm for teaching music and how it can inspire students. Share specific examples of how you've engaged students in the past, particularly in a diverse educational setting.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Skills
As the Head of Keyboard, you'll be leading a department. Be prepared to discuss your leadership style and provide examples of how you've successfully managed teams or projects in previous roles.
✨Highlight Your Accompaniment Experience
Since the role involves accompanying concerts and performances, be ready to talk about your experience in this area. Mention any notable performances or collaborations that showcase your skills as an accompanist.
✨Align with the School's Mission
Christ’s Hospital has a strong commitment to social mobility and supporting disadvantaged children. Make sure to articulate how your values align with the school's mission and how you can contribute to this important work.