At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop the wind and brass programme, teaching and directing ensembles.
- Company: Join Dragon School, a top preparatory school in Oxford with a vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary up to £48,521 plus allowances and professional development opportunities.
- Other info: Be part of a community that values diversity, equity, and inclusion.
- Why this job: Shape young musicians' futures while enjoying a dynamic and supportive environment.
- Qualifications: Experience in music education and strong leadership skills required.
The predicted salary is between 48521 - 48521 € per year.
Dragon School is one of Britain’s leading preparatory schools, offering a first-class day and boarding education for children aged 4-13 years. Located in the heart of the city of Oxford, the Dragon provides a distinctive educational experience that not only celebrates childhood and the joy of learning, but also prepares young people with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing world and continue to ‘Reach for the Sun’ (Arduus ad Solem). This is an exciting time to join the Dragon School Community as we have just launched our Strategy, 2027 and Beyond.
The Head of Wind and Brass is responsible for the development of wind and brass playing at the School, agreeing a broad overview and vision in close consultation with the Director of Music. They must show awareness for the other Heads of Section and display the skills required to assist and liaise effectively with these members of staff, in order to facilitate the smooth running of the department. The role involves a combination of teaching, directing ensembles and leading a team of teachers, with general responsibility for the provision of opportunities and resources for percussion playing within the department.
Reports to: Director of Music
Salary: Up to £48,521 p/a plus allowances
Duties and Responsibilities
- To plan, prepare and teach individual lessons according to the educational needs of pupils assigned to him.
- To advise the DoM on the allocation of pupils in the wind and brass department.
- To lead the team of visiting wind and brass teachers and maintain the quality of teaching in the department.
- To assist with the appraisal procedure of staff within the wind and brass department.
- To be involved in interviews for new wind and brass teachers as required by the Director of Music.
- To oversee and facilitate wind and brass examination entries and the actual exams through all examining bodies, in consultation with the Director of Music and Music Administrator.
- To be responsible for the maintenance of the school’s extensive stock of wind and brass instruments, both at the Dragon and at Pre-Prep.
- To develop the library of suitable teaching and performing resources, both for solos and for ensembles involving wind and brass.
- To provide the Director of Music with an Instrument stock and hire list, and to update this regularly.
- To direct and organise activities and concerts involving wind and brass, both as soloists and ensemble players at the Dragon, as agreed with the Director of Music.
- To participate in the schemes currently in place to introduce children to percussion at Pre-Prep.
- To direct and organise a morning practice at Pre-Prep involving wind and brass in collaboration with the Head of Pre-Prep Music, as agreed with the Director of Music.
- To organise opportunities involving wind and brass as well as continuing to develop already established groups.
- To attend a weekly meeting with the Director of Music, as necessary.
- To participate fully in the School’s consultative procedure ensuring an effective communication system.
- To integrate into the broader life of the School and facilitate music-making in the wider community.
- To accommodate up to two Bursary Children for music lessons, as requested by the Director of Music.
The Person
- Ability to plan ahead and anticipate deadlines.
- Organisation.
- Communication (both written and oral) to pupils, staff and parents.
- Administrative and good use of IT.
- Understanding of safeguarding and their pastoral role within the school.
- Flexibility.
- Good leadership and working rapport with peers.
- Ability to form and maintain relationships with peers.
- Vision to generate interest and diversity within the wind and brass section.
- Good overview of all wind and brass players.
- Ability to maintain a high standard of teaching.
- Proactivity within the role and therefore the department.
- Confident and amenable character.
- Displays commitment to the principles of Diversity, Equity and Inclusion.
- Displays commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.
- Values and respects the views and needs of children.
Health and Safety at Work
All staff share responsibility for achieving safe working conditions. The postholder must take care of their own health and safety and that of others, observe applicable safety rules and follow instructions for the safe use of equipment.
For an informal discussion about the role, please contact William Morris through Dragon School Careers.
Head of Wind and Brass employer: Dragon School Oxford
Dragon School is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture in the heart of Oxford. With a commitment to professional development and a focus on nurturing talent, employees are encouraged to grow within their roles while contributing to a dynamic educational environment that celebrates creativity and collaboration. The school’s strategic vision for 2027 and beyond presents exciting opportunities for staff to engage in meaningful initiatives that shape the future of music education.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Wind and Brass
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the music education field, especially those connected to schools or music departments. A friendly chat can lead to opportunities that aren’t even advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! When you get the chance to meet with the hiring team, let your enthusiasm for wind and brass shine through. Share your vision for the department and how you plan to inspire students.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the interview by researching the school’s music programme. Familiarise yourself with their current ensembles and teaching methods. This will help you tailor your responses and show you’re genuinely interested in joining the Dragon School community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about the role and ready to be part of our exciting journey at Dragon School.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Wind and Brass
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music:When writing your application, let your love for music shine through! Share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your teaching philosophy. We want to see your enthusiasm for wind and brass and how you plan to inspire our students.
Tailor Your Application:Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Head of Wind and Brass role. Highlight your leadership skills and experience in directing ensembles, as well as your ability to collaborate with other staff members. We’re looking for someone who can fit right into our community!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your qualifications and vision for the role.
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 position. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining the Dragon School community!
How to prepare for a job interview at Dragon School Oxford
✨Know Your Music
Brush up on your knowledge of wind and brass instruments, their teaching methods, and current trends in music education. Be ready to discuss how you would develop the department and engage students in learning.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or collaborated with other educators. Highlight your ability to communicate effectively and maintain a positive rapport with both staff and students.
✨Demonstrate Your Vision
Think about your vision for the wind and brass department. Be prepared to share innovative ideas for concerts, activities, and resources that could enhance the students' musical experience at Dragon School.
✨Engage with the Community
Discuss how you plan to integrate music-making into the wider school community. Show your enthusiasm for involving parents and local musicians, and how you can promote diversity and inclusion within the music programme.
