Teacher of Drum Kit (Visiting Music Teacher)

Eton College is seeking to appoint an experienced and committed Teacher of Drum Kit with a passion for teaching. The role will be part of a team of three other percussion teachers led by the Head of Percussion. Responsibilities include teaching and inspiring drum kit pupils across the 13‑18 age range (including some of our most advanced drummers), encouraging practice, and enabling technical and musical development. The successful candidate will ensure an excellent instrument set‑up, support preparation for performances, competitions, exams and music‑college entrance, and conform to the administrative and reporting procedures of the school. Additionally, the candidate should be willing to engage with occasional rehearsals as required and to teach orchestral percussion at a beginner level if needed.

Eton has a busy instrumental and choral programme including four orchestras, several chamber music groups, jazz ensembles, a percussion ensemble, rock and pop societies, masterclasses with distinguished guest artists, and many percussion and contemporary commercial music performances every year.

Benefits

• Eton College offers a range of benefits, including an 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution).
• An Employee Assistance Programme.
• An enhanced maternity/paternity scheme.
• A cycle‑to‑work scheme.
• Subsidised lunches during term time.
• Free or heavily discounted access to the college's sport and leisure facilities.
• Discounts at local retailers and businesses.

Main Duties

• Teach individual drum kit lessons to pupils across the 13‑18 age range and oversee their technical and musical progress in preparation for performances, exams, competitions, etc.
• Inspire and monitor pupils' practice and report on their progress.
• Design lesson plans and exercises tailored to students' needs and goals.
• Organise weekly lessons with students and maintain flexibility and communication regarding timetabling.
• Report pupil absences in accordance with departmental procedures.
• Engage with occasional ensemble coaching if suited to the skills of the candidate.
• Attend the annual VMT department meeting and sign up.
• Meet all administrative and reporting deadlines.

All employees of Eton College are also expected to:

• Develop a good understanding of safeguarding procedures, given all positions at Eton are classed as regulated activity.
• Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, including completing safeguarding training as required, complying with all safeguarding procedures, and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood.
• Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality.
• Display a commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion.

The Ideal Candidate

• Previous experience teaching pupils aged 13 to 18 at all levels, including advanced pupils.
• A relevant diploma, professional music degree, or equivalent qualification.
• A teaching qualification is desirable but not essential.
• Proven interest and experience in drum teaching and knowledge of repertoire and exam material.
• Demonstrable experience as a drum player and teacher with thorough knowledge of relevant repertoire.
• Excellent organisation and interpersonal communication skills.
• Team player with ability to work flexibly as part of a team.
• Excellent and adaptable written and oral communication skills in relation to staff, students, and parents.
• A positive approach with a pro‑active attitude.
• Ability to be approachable, open and honest.

Working Pattern

We offer flexibility regarding working days as we recognise professional musicians have busy schedules. VMTs are contracted to give 30 lessons each academic year of flexible duration based on the students' needs. The teaching element of this role is currently in the region of approximately five hours per week. However, there is an element of flexibility required in the role, and the number of lessons taught may change on a termly basis. There is no guaranteed number of pupils or hours of teaching.

About The College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity. We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio‑economic background.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online search and, where applicable, Prohibition checks. If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form. Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS. The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as spent under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules. It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.