At a Glance
- Tasks: Inspire students through engaging drama and music lessons tailored for their unique needs.
- Company: Join a supportive independent school focused on creativity and emotional growth.
- Benefits: Enjoy life assurance, pension options, mental health support, and flexible benefits.
- Other info: Lead extracurricular activities and collaborate with a passionate team.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives while nurturing their artistic talents.
- Qualifications: Teaching qualification and experience with SEMH learners in drama or music.
The predicted salary is between 46000 - 46000 £ per year.
Location: Manor House School, Slinfold, Horsham, RH13 0QX
Salary: Up to £46,000.00 per annum (depending on experience, not pro rata)
Hours: 40 hours per week | Monday to Friday
Contract: Permanent, Term Time Only
Start Date: September 2026
UK applicants only – no sponsorship available
About the Role
We are seeking a dedicated and compassionate practitioner to join our independent school, supporting students with social, emotional and mental health (SEMH) challenges. Whether your background is in drama, music or both, you will nurture creativity, confidence, emotional expression and personal growth through the performing arts.
Key Responsibilities
- Teaching & Learning
- Plan and deliver engaging Performing Arts lessons tailored to the needs of SEMH learners.
- Develop a flexible, individualized curriculum aligned with school aims and the National Curriculum, with a specialist focus in drama or music.
- Create a safe, supportive and inspiring learning environment that promotes emotional well-being and creative expression.
- Use a range of teaching strategies to meet diverse learning styles and abilities.
- Assess and monitor student progress, providing personalised feedback and guidance.
- Work collaboratively with colleagues and the wider support team to ensure holistic support for students.
- Integrate performing arts approaches into therapeutic and SEMH-supportive practice where appropriate.
- Contribute to whole-school initiatives, events and cross-curricular projects.
- Organise and lead extracurricular performing arts activities, clubs or productions that support social and emotional development.
- Encourage student participation in performances, showcases and creative projects.
About You
Essential
- A recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, QTS or equivalent).
- Proven experience teaching drama or music, ideally with SEMH learners.
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with a compassionate and patient approach.
- Flexibility, creativity and the ability to adapt to the unique needs of SEMH students.
- A strong commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Driving licence required.
Desirable
- Experience with music technology, performance direction or creative arts therapy approaches.
- Knowledge of relevant policies, codes of practice and legislation.
Benefits
- Life assurance.
- Pension scheme with options to increase contributions.
- "Your Wellbeing Matters": mental health support and physical health checks.
- Flexible benefits platform (Vista), including health, wellbeing and insurance benefits, hundreds of UK and international discounts, cycle to work scheme and electric car purchase scheme.
- Critical illness cover.
- Family growth support, including enhanced maternity/paternity leave and paid fertility treatment support.
We reserve the right to close the vacancy early if we receive a high volume of suitable applications.
Performing Arts Teacher (Drama or Music Specialist) in Horsham employer: Acorn Care and Education
Contact Detail:
Acorn Care and Education Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Performing Arts Teacher (Drama or Music Specialist) in Horsham
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow teachers, join performing arts groups, and connect with local schools. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Create a portfolio showcasing your best lessons, performances, or projects. This will give potential employers a taste of what you can bring to their school and how you can support SEMH learners.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its values. Tailor your answers to reflect how your experience aligns with their mission, especially in supporting students with SEMH challenges. We want to see your passion shine through!
✨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 engage with us directly.
We think you need these skills to ace Performing Arts Teacher (Drama or Music Specialist) in Horsham
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: Let us see your enthusiasm for the performing arts! Share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your teaching style. We want to know what makes you tick and how you can inspire our students.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to highlight your experience with SEMH learners. We’re looking for someone who understands their unique needs, so be specific about how you’ve adapted your teaching methods in the past.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and make sure your key skills and experiences shine through without unnecessary fluff.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Acorn Care and Education
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the specifics of teaching drama or music, especially in relation to SEMH learners. Brush up on relevant teaching strategies and be ready to discuss how you would tailor your lessons to meet diverse needs.
✨Show Your Passion
Let your enthusiasm for the performing arts shine through! Share personal stories or experiences that highlight your commitment to nurturing creativity and emotional expression in students. This will help you connect with the interviewers.
✨Prepare for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about how you would handle specific situations involving SEMH students. Think of examples from your past experience where you successfully supported a student’s emotional or creative development, and be ready to share those.
✨Ask Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, don’t forget to ask insightful questions about the school’s approach to performing arts and SEMH support. This shows your genuine interest in the role and helps you gauge if it’s the right fit for you.