At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant Drama Department, teaching from P7 to Advanced Higher and staging productions.
- Company: Join the Edinburgh Academy, a welcoming co-educational school with a strong community spirit.
- Benefits: Enjoy a generous pension scheme, onsite gym, employee assistance programme, and discounted health insurance.
- Other info: Located in Edinburgh, with access to professional theatres and a supportive community.
- Why this job: Be part of a dynamic team, inspire students, and promote the arts in a thriving environment.
- Qualifications: GTCS registered or eligible, with relevant teaching qualifications and a passion for drama.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
The following content displays a map of the jobs location - The Pends, St Andrews, Fife
Job Reference schooltalent/TP/33703/2772
Number of Positions:
1
Contract Type:
Full Time -Term Time
Competative
Location:
The Pends, St Andrews, Fife
Closing Date:
13/09/2026
Department:
Drama
Region / Division:
St Leonards
Job Role:
Teaching
The Role
Responsible to:Senior Deputy Head
Contract Type:Permanent, Full Time, Term Time.
Hours of Work: 1.0 FTE
Job Purpose
The post-holder is expected to uphold and actively promote the ethos of the School. The Head of Drama reports to the Senior Deputy Head and is ultimately accountable to the Headmaster. The focus of the role is to provide teaching of the highest quality together with excellent leadership, management and organisation of the Drama Department. This will ensure the School delivers an outstanding drama education while providing a vibrant programme of productions and performance opportunities that enable pupils to achieve their full creative potential.
General Description and Responsibilities
In addition to fulfilling teacher and tutor responsibilities, the Director of Drama will also undertake the following responsibilities:
Leadership and Management of the Drama Department
Lead the day-to-day running of the Drama Department, ensuring its effective organisation and smooth operation.
Maintain the highest standards of teaching, learning and dramatic performance across the department.
Provide strategic leadership for the development of Drama across the School.
Implement, review and monitor departmental policies, procedures and the Drama Department handbook
Oversee the maintenance, organisation and development of departmental resources, costumes, props, technical equipment and performance space.
Ensure the department operates in accordance with Health and Safety requirements, including theatre-specific health and safety procedures.
Manage the departmental budget and ensure the effective use of resources.
Communicate effectively with parents regarding curriculum provision, productions and student participation.
Liaise with members of the Senior Leadership Team and colleagues to support the strategic development of Drama across the School.
Promote a positive, inclusive and creative learning environment where all pupils are encouraged to participate and excel.
Teaching and Learning
Lead the development of outstanding teaching and learning within the Drama Department.
Monitor student progress and achievement across all year groups.
Ensure appropriate assessment, reporting and feedback procedures are implemented consistently.
Support colleagues in maintaining high standards of classroom practice and professional development.
Promote innovative approaches to teaching and learning that inspire creativity and confidence.
Productions and Co-Curricular Drama
Plan, direct and oversee the School's programme of drama productions throughout the academic year.
Organise auditions, rehearsals and performance schedules.
Coordinate the department's contribution to assemblies, open mornings, community events and other School occasions.
Encourage broad participation in drama through clubs, productions and enrichment opportunities.
Develop links with local theatres, performing arts organisations and the wider community where appropriate.
Department Administration
Manage departmental administration, including timetabling, event planning, production schedules and examination requirements.
Produce and maintain departmental documentation, including the Drama Department handbook.
Ensure departmental events are appropriately planned and coordinated within the School calendar.
Maintain accurate records relating to student participation, assessments and productions.
Professional Responsibilities
Work collaboratively with colleagues across the School to promote interdisciplinary learning and the performing arts.
Support the appraisal, induction and professional development of departmental staff.
Contribute positively to the wider co-curricular life of the School.
Uphold safeguarding, child protection and Health and Safety responsibilities at all times.
Undertake any other reasonable duties appropriate to the role as requested by the Deputy Head or Headmaster.
National and School Standards
Actively contribute to the ethos and values of the School.
Maintain positive and professional relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues.
Demonstrate the highest standards of professionalism and conduct.
Adhere to all School policies, including safeguarding, child protection and Health and Safety.
Support the wider life of the School through co-curricular activities and performances.
Participate fully in the School's appraisal and professional development processes.
Undertake duties appropriate to the role in line with School expectations.
This is not intended to be an exhaustive list of responsibilities and duties. It is expected that the post-holder will undertake other reasonable activities required to meet the needs of the School.
Person Specification
Criteria
Education, Training and Qualifications
Educated to degree level in a relevant discipline.
Eligible for registration with GTCS.
GTCS registered.
Evidence of continued professional development.
Experience
Proven experience of teaching at secondary level
Experience of teaching across the full age and ability range of secondary education.
Experience or understanding of pastoral support.
Experience of planning and producing dramatic performances
Experience of working across school and with external organisations to deliver productions
Experience of teaching or knowledge of the IB curriculum.
Experience of leading aspects of an academic department.
Experience of using data to track pupil progress.
Experience of inquiry or concept-based learning.
Skills
Commitment to pupil learning and raising achievement.
Ability to create and deliver engaging and effective lessons.
Enthusiasm to inspire in pupils a desire to learn and participation.
Skills and experience which can contribute to extra‑curricular activities.
Experience of Managebac, Openapply or other related databases.
Interpersonal skills
Ability to work as part of a team.
Ability to work independently and take responsibility for planning own workload.
Collegial, reflective and collaborative with a growth mindset, willing to share expertise and to learn from others.
Ability to work calmly under pressure and keep to deadlines.
Sensitive to the needs of others and supportive when required.
Professional manner and appearance.
All post holders will require to be accepted for membership of the Disclosure Scotland Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) scheme.
Please note : St Leonards cannot offer visa sponsorship therefore applicants must have the right to work in the UK.
About St Leonards
St Leonards is a friendly and forward-looking independent, coeducational, boarding and day school situated on an historic campus at the heart of the university town of St Andrews. The school enjoys an unrivalled location - there are sandy beaches, world-class Links golf courses, and historic sites on its doorstep.
St Leonards delivers the inspiring, globally-recognised International Baccalaureate curriculum (which has been praised by university admissions officers for its focus on deepening learning learning, offering wider subject options, and enriching minds) for pupils aged five to 18, and was the first school to be accredited as an all-through IB school in Scotland. It is one of just two schools in the UK to actively offer all four IB programmes, ensuring a seamless learner journey. The youngest pupils follow the Primary Years Programme, which goes hand-in-hand with the vibrant Outdoor Learning programme at St Leonards. This is followed by the Middle Years Programme and (I)GCSEs. In the Sixth Form, pupils choose between the Career-related Programme and the Diploma Programme.
St Leonards enjoys a rich sporting heritage, and continues to boast a strong record of achievement with pupils representing the school nationally in golf, rugby, lacrosse, hockey, horse riding, and small-bore rifle shooting. The leading five-tier Golf Programme continues to go from strength to strength, the Duke of Edinburgh Award is the fastest growing of all Scottish independent schools, and an exciting calendar of trips and activities ensures pupils leave St Leonards equipped with the skills required to succeed in today’s ever-changing world. Truly an education ‘Ad Vitam’ (for life).
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Head of Drama employer: George Watson'S College
St Margaret’s School for Girls is an exceptional employer, offering a supportive and nurturing environment where staff are valued and encouraged to grow. With benefits such as a generous pension scheme, fee remission for staff dependents, and access to an Employee Assistance programme, employees can thrive both personally and professionally. Located in Aberdeen, the school fosters a collaborative work culture that prioritises ambition and progression, making it an ideal place for those seeking meaningful and rewarding employment.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Drama
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the Edinburgh Academy's ethos and values. Understanding their commitment to a warm and welcoming community will help you align your approach and demonstrate how you can contribute positively to their environment during any discussions.
✨Tip Number 2
Network with current or former staff members if possible. Engaging with them can provide insights into the school's culture and expectations, which can be invaluable when discussing your vision for the Drama Department.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare to showcase your experience in collaborative projects, especially those involving other departments like Music. Highlighting your ability to work across disciplines will resonate well with the school's emphasis on teamwork.
✨Tip Number 4
Be ready to discuss your ideas for co-curricular activities and productions. The school values a vibrant schedule, so presenting innovative concepts for engaging students in drama will demonstrate your passion and initiative.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Drama
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in teaching Drama, particularly at various levels from P7 to Advanced Higher. Include any relevant qualifications and your GTCS registration status.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Write a cover letter that showcases your passion for drama and education. Mention specific experiences that demonstrate your ability to lead a department and collaborate with other teams, such as the Music Department.
Highlight Co-Curricular Involvement:Emphasise your experience with co-curricular activities related to drama. Discuss any productions you've directed or participated in, and how you can contribute to the vibrant schedule of productions at the school.
Showcase Communication Skills:Since the role requires excellent organisational and communication skills, provide examples in your application of how you've effectively communicated with students, parents, and colleagues in previous roles.
How to prepare for a job interview at George Watson'S College
✨Show Your Passion for Drama
Make sure to express your genuine love for the dramatic arts during the interview. Share specific experiences that highlight your enthusiasm and how it has influenced your teaching style and student engagement.
✨Demonstrate Collaborative Skills
Since the role involves working closely with other departments, be prepared to discuss examples of successful collaborations you've had in the past. Highlight how you can bring together different teams, such as Music and Drama, to create a vibrant co-curricular programme.
✨Prepare for Budget Management Questions
As the Head of Drama, you'll need to manage budgets effectively. Be ready to discuss your experience with budget management, including any challenges you've faced and how you overcame them. This will show your capability in handling departmental finances.
✨Familiarise Yourself with the School's Ethos
Research The Edinburgh Academy's values and ethos before the interview. Be prepared to explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with their commitment to inclusivity and the overall well-being of students, which is crucial for this role.
