Pre-Prep Performing Arts Specialist

Brighton College Prep Kensington is a thriving independent preparatory school in central London, educating boys and girls from the age of 2 to 13. Guided by our core values of confidence, curiosity, and kindness, we offer a broad, ambitious, and enriching education that places strong emphasis on creativity, academic excellence, and outstanding pastoral care. We are recognised for our innovative approach and commitment to pupil wellbeing.

The school now has an exciting opportunity for an experienced Pre-Prep Performing Arts Specialist to join our fantastic team.

We are seeking a warm, energetic, and inspiring Pre-Prep Performing Arts Specialist to teach music and drama across the Pre-Prep, including Early Years through to Year 3. The successful candidate will join a collaborative and ambitious Performing Arts Faculty, working alongside the Head of Performing Arts and the Head of Drama. This is an exciting opportunity to join the school at a formative moment, with genuine scope to shape the Pre-Prep performing arts curriculum and contribute to the wider performance calendar of this ambitious school.

As a member of the Performing Arts team, the postholder will embrace the rich co-curricular life of the department. Rehearsals, ensembles, and clubs, including those that take place before and after the school day, are a valued and integral part of the role, sitting naturally alongside curriculum teaching and contributing to a vibrant performance culture.

In addition to leading Pre-Prep performing arts provision, the role includes supporting whole-school productions and performances as needed, working collaboratively across the faculty. For the right candidate, there may also be opportunities to contribute to Prep School teaching as the department continues to expand. The ability to teach dance or creative movement would be a significant advantage. A desire, ability, or interest in exploring the role of technology within the creative arts curriculum would also be highly valued.

This is a permanent, full-time position with a proposed start date in the new academic year in September 2026.

Person Specification

• A degree or specialist qualification in music, drama, performing arts, or a closely related field.
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent, or relevant Early Years teaching experience.
• Experience teaching music and/or drama to young children, including Early Years.
• A warm, creative, and engaging approach to teaching young learners.
• Strong communication and classroom management skills.
• A clear commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
• Experience contributing to performances or productions and a thorough understanding of the quality expected in a premium independent school.

Desirable

• Ability to teach dance or creative movement.
• Experience working in an independent or preparatory school.
• Willingness and enthusiasm to contribute to Prep School teaching for the right candidate.
• Interest in, or experience of, using technology creatively within the performing arts curriculum.
• A genuine enthusiasm for the co-curricular life of the performing arts, including rehearsals, ensembles, clubs, and performances.
• Enthusiasm for enrichment activities and the wider life of a school.

Benefits at Cognita

• Competitive salary depending upon qualifications and experience.
• Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme.
• Free lunch and refreshments provided during Term Time.
• Generous school holidays and public holidays.
• School fee discount.
• Exclusive third-party discounts.
• Ongoing professional development.

How to Apply

Complete this application before the closing date: 9am, Friday 27th February 2026. Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All appointments are subject to safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check.