At a Glance
- Tasks: Assist in running the Music Department and support various musical activities.
- Company: Join a leading independent school with a vibrant music culture.
- Benefits: Enjoy 25 days paid leave, private healthcare, and free lunches during term time.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' musical journeys while developing your skills.
- Qualifications: Degree-level education with strong musical expertise and passion for music education.
- Other info: Flexible working options and opportunities for professional development available.
The predicted salary is between 18200 - 22000 £ per year.
Abingdon School is looking for an exceptional Graduate Music Assistant to assist with the day to day running of the Music Department.
Location: Park Road, Abingdon, Oxfordshire, OX14 1DE
Job Type: Full Time, Fixed Term Contract
Working Hours: 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday, 8.30am to 5pm
Salary: £20,268.82 based on 0.7595 FTE (1.0 FTE is £26,687 per annum)
Closing date: Friday 20th March 2026, midday
About Us: The Foundation comprises two schools: Abingdon School and Abingdon Prep School, as well as Abingdon School Enterprises. Abingdon School is a leading independent day and boarding school with more than 1,000 pupils aged 11-18. Currently a boys school, it will become co-educational from September 2026. Abingdon Prep School is a vibrant and warm day preparatory school with around 200 pupils aged 4-13 which has been co-educational since last year. Both Schools are situated in beautiful and extensive grounds, with the senior school in the heart of Abingdon on Thames, just south of Oxford, and the Prep School located a few miles away in nearby Frilford.
Graduate Music Assistant - The Role:
We are looking for an exceptional Graduate Music Assistant to assist with the day to day running of the Music Department. This is principally in two guises, administrative support and musical contribution to the varied programme within the department. This role is offered on a Fixed Term Contract for one year, with a possibility to extend a further year. The maximum tenure will be 2 years.
Graduate Music Assistant - Key Responsibilities:
- Running aural classes for pupils as required and teaching music theory from grade 1-5
- Taking a share in the piano accompaniment required at concerts and for examinations
- Assisting at all school concerts alongside supporting ensembles as appropriate
- Assisting with other boarders musical activities, according to demand
- General administrative support including compiling the lists of pupils who have clashes with music lessons and liaising with the VMT body
- Contribution and support to the social media platform and music department youtube channel
- Setting up for orchestra and band practices
Graduate Music Assistant - You:
- Educated to degree level with a high level of musical expertise
- A strong understanding of music education, a genuine passion for music and the ability to support the whole musical programme and full range of musical activities and events
- Conscientiousness, enthusiasm and a willingness to work hours as required during term time
- Ability to work independently and also as part of a team
- Ability to inspire and motivate pupils
- Strong organisational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
Graduate Music Assistant Benefits:
- 25 days off paid time off each year plus bank holidays
- Up to 14.1% employer pension contribution
- Abingdon Foundation Death in Service Scheme
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Private healthcare insurance
- Flexible working from home may be available
- Free use of leisure facilities with discounted exercise classes
- Free lunches during term time
- Cycle to work scheme
- Christmas closure days
- Discounted school fees (eligibility criteria apply)
- Regular staff social events and opportunities to join other staff
- Free on-site parking and bike storage for all staff
- A range of online and in-person courses to staff for free including first aid, mental health first aid and health and safety courses
We recognise the value of a diverse and inclusive workplace and are committed to equality of opportunity for all staff and job applicants. Early applications are encouraged. We may make an appointment prior to the advertised closing or interview dates.
Closing Date: Midday on Friday 20 March 2026
Interviews: Wednesday 25 March 2026
Abingdon is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to a satisfactory enhanced DBS check.
To submit your CV for this Graduate Music Assistant opportunity please click Apply now!
Graduate Music Assistant in Oxford employer: Abingdon School
Contact Detail:
Abingdon School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Graduate Music Assistant in Oxford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your music professors, classmates, and even alumni from your university. They might have insider info on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! If you’ve got recordings of your performances or any teaching sessions, share them on social media or your personal website. It’s a great way to showcase what you can bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its music programme. Know their ethos and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their musical community. We want to see your passion!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take that extra step to connect with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Graduate Music Assistant in Oxford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music: When writing your application, let your love for music shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your musical expertise and how you can contribute to the vibrant programme at Abingdon School.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight relevant skills and experiences that align with the responsibilities of the Graduate Music Assistant position, like teaching music theory or supporting concerts.
Be Organised and Clear: Keep your application neat and structured. Use clear headings and bullet points to make it easy for us to read. Remember, strong organisational skills are key for this role, so show us you’ve got them right from the start!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way to ensure we receive your details and can consider you for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it’s super straightforward!
How to prepare for a job interview at Abingdon School
✨Know Your Music Inside Out
Make sure you brush up on your music theory and aural skills before the interview. Be prepared to discuss your musical background and how it aligns with the role. This will show your genuine passion for music and your ability to inspire pupils.
✨Showcase Your Organisational Skills
Since the role involves administrative support, think of examples where you've successfully managed tasks or projects. Bring along any relevant experience that highlights your organisational abilities, as this is key to running the music department smoothly.
✨Engage with Their Vision
Research Abingdon School and its music programme. Understand their ethos and be ready to discuss how you can contribute to their vision, especially with the upcoming transition to co-education. This shows you're not just interested in the job, but also in being part of their community.
✨Prepare Questions to Ask
Interviews are a two-way street! Prepare thoughtful questions about the music department's future plans or how they support staff development. This demonstrates your enthusiasm for the role and your commitment to contributing positively to the team.