Head of Music in Portadown

Overview: The following text outlines the application expectations, shortlisting process and person specification for the role. It includes essential/desirable criteria, method of assessment, and related notes.

Notes to Applicants and General Guidance: You must clearly demonstrate on your application form under each question how, and to what extent you meet the required criteria as failure to do so may result in you not being shortlisted. You should clearly demonstrate this for both the essential and desirable criteria, where relevant. You must demonstrate how you meet the criteria by the closing date for applications, unless the criteria state otherwise. The stage in the process when the criteria will be measured is outlined in the table below. Shortlisting will be carried out on the basis of the essential criteria set out in Section 1 below, using the information provided by you on your application form. Please note that the Selection Panel reserves the right to shortlist only those applicants that it believes most strongly meet the criteria for the role. In the event of an excessive number of applications, the Selection Panel also reserves the right to apply any desirable criteria as outlined in Section 3 at shortlisting, in which case these will be applied in the order listed. It is important therefore that you also clearly demonstrate on your application form how you meet any desirable criteria.

SECTION 1 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

• Qualifications/ Professional Membership: By the closing date for receipt of applications; Hold a teaching qualification which meets the requirements for recognition to teach in grant-aided schools in Northern Ireland. Hold a degree or equivalent Level 6 qualification which has prepared the applicant to teach Key Stage 3 Music as his/her main subject. Grade 6 (or higher) in piano from a recognised music examinations board (e.g. ABRSM, TCL, LCM).
• Experience: At the date of taking up appointment; Minimum of 3 years’ paid demonstrable experience of teaching Music at Key Stage 3 to achieve positive learning outcomes. Demonstrable experience of using a range of teaching strategies to meet the learning needs of pupils. Demonstrable experience of using digital media / technology to enhance teaching and learning. Demonstrable experience of promoting and developing the subject area through enrichment activities (e.g. Choir, Orchestra).
• Other: Be registered with the General Teaching Council for Northern Ireland (GTCNI) before taking up post Pre-employment Check.

SECTION 2 - ESSENTIAL CRITERIA

• Knowledge: Knowledge of Northern Ireland Curriculum. Knowledge and understanding of Safeguarding and Child Protection policy/practice. Knowledge of the SEND Code of Practice. Knowledge of a range of teaching strategies to meet the learning needs of pupils. Knowledge of Information Technology systems such as digital classroom tools/media and the use of tablets/mobile technologies. Knowledge of current assessment methods to inform teaching.
• Skills / Abilities: Effective teaching and classroom management skills to inspire and challenge pupils to raise achievement. Proven ability to provide a supportive, inclusive learning environment. Ability to work collaboratively to promote positive relationships with pupils, colleagues, parents and the wider community. Ability to work as an effective member of a team, and to motivate self and others.
• Values Orientation / Identification with School Ethos: Evidence of how your experience and approach to work reflect the School’s Values/ethos.

SECTION 3 - DESIRABLE CRITERIA

• Qualifications And Experience: By the closing date for receipt of applications; Hold a degree or equivalent Level 6 qualification in Music or a related subject (2.1 or higher). Hold a diploma in piano (or other keyboard instrument) from a recognised music examinations board (e.g. ABRSM, TCL, LCM). Experience of assisting and/or directing the music for a School Production. Experience of curriculum development in Music or a related subject. Experience of leading and managing staff teams. Experience of teaching a second subject at Key Stage 3.
• Disclosure of Criminal Background: The Safeguarding Vulnerable Groups (Northern Ireland) Order 2007 defines working directly with children or young people or in specified places as ‘regulated activity’. In the event that you are recommended for appointed to a post that involves ‘regulated activity’, the Education Authority will be required to undertake an Enhanced Disclosure of Criminal Background.

This job description will be subject to review in light of changing circumstances and is not intended to be rigid and inflexible but should be regarded as providing guidelines within which the individual works. Other duties of a similar nature and appropriate to the grade may be assigned from time to time. In accordance with Section 75 of the Northern Ireland Act (1998), the post-holder is expected to promote good relations, equality of opportunity and pay due regard for equality legislation at all times.