At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire a community of over 500 young musicians in their educational journey.
- Company: Join the Centre for Young Musicians, part of the Guildhall Young Artists network.
- Benefits: Enjoy a great pension scheme, discounts, and access to mental health support.
- Why this job: Shape the future of music education and make a real impact on young talents.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience in music education and strong curriculum design skills.
- Other info: Flexible schedule with opportunities for career growth in a thriving musical environment.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are seeking an inspirational and dynamic leader to join CYM as Head of Learning. This is a key senior role, working closely with the Head of CYM to help shape and deliver the Centre's educational vision and strategy for a community of over 500 young musicians, while supporting CYM's continued development, ambition and growth. The post-holder will be responsible for the curriculum, the quality of teaching and learning, and the impact of CYM's educational provision across the Centre, ensuring a coherent, inclusive and high-quality learning experience for every student.
The Head of Learning will line-manage Heads of Department, oversee areas of provision not led by a department, take responsibility for timetabling and learning pathways, lead on quality assurance and data-informed improvement, and act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL) for CYM. This role offers the chance to shape learning at one of the UK’s leading specialist music centres and to play a central role in supporting progression and achievement for young musicians from all backgrounds.
Responsibilities- Provide strategic and educational leadership across CYM, contributing to the Centre's educational vision and priorities.
- Lead curriculum and programme design, review and development.
- Line manage Heads of Department and support staff development.
- Lead quality assurance, monitoring, evaluation and use of data.
- Oversee timetabling and student learning pathways across the Centre.
- Act as Designated Safeguarding Lead (DSL).
- Work collaboratively across CYM, the Guildhall Young Artists network and the wider Guildhall School.
The post-holder will be a key member of CYM's senior leadership team and will deputise for the Head of CYM as required. Schedule Tuesday to Saturday during CYM term time; Monday to Friday outside term time. This role requires flexibility to attend occasional rehearsals and concerts on evenings and weekends, with time given in lieu.
Ideal Candidate- Have significant leadership experience in a music education or specialist learning setting.
- Demonstrate strong experience of curriculum or programme design, delivery and evaluation.
- Have experience line managing staff, including recruitment, induction and appraisal.
- Show a clear commitment to inclusion, widening participation and supporting progression for students from underrepresented backgrounds.
- Have excellent organisational, communication and interpersonal skills.
- Demonstrate sound understanding of safeguarding and student wellbeing.
Part of the Guildhall Young Artists network, Centre for Young Musicians offers music provision to talented young people from all backgrounds in a thriving musical environment. As a Centre for Advanced Training under the Department for Education's National Grant for Music and Dance, CYM is a key provider of instrumental, vocal and ensemble tuition in London. Our Saturday school and holiday courses offer a sustained and progressive route from the early stages of learning through to music college entrance. Children start on our primary years programme (age 5 upwards) progressing to the Full Programme (aged 8 to 18). CYM also manages the London Schools Symphony Orchestra and London Youth Wind Band holiday courses, which combine a rich history and legacy with bold, forward-thinking ambition.
Benefits- A great pension scheme.
- Season ticket.
- Cycle to work scheme.
- Free access to museums and galleries.
- Discounts on retail, healthcare and on-site cafés and restaurants.
- Access to our Employee Assistance Programme, trained Mental Health First Aiders and City of London as well as Barbican staff networks.
Head of Learning, Centre for Young Musicians employer: GUILDHALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA
Contact Detail:
GUILDHALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Learning, Centre for Young Musicians
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the music education field, especially those connected to CYM. Attend events, join forums, and don’t be shy about asking for informational chats. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings!
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion! When you get that interview, make sure to express your enthusiasm for shaping educational strategies and supporting young musicians. Share specific examples of how you've made an impact in previous roles to really stand out.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for the unexpected! Be ready to discuss not just your leadership experience but also your approach to inclusion and safeguarding. Think about scenarios where you've had to adapt or innovate in your teaching methods.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets seen by the right people. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the CYM team and contributing to our vibrant community of young musicians.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Learning, Centre for Young Musicians
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music Education: When writing your application, let your love for music education shine through! We want to see how your experiences and values align with our mission at CYM. Share specific examples of how you've inspired young musicians in the past.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for this role. Highlight your leadership experience and any relevant curriculum design work. We’re looking for someone who can really connect with our educational vision, so make it clear how you fit the bill!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so avoid jargon and long-winded explanations. Use bullet points where possible to make your achievements stand out!
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 role. Plus, it shows you’re keen to be part of our community at CYM!
How to prepare for a job interview at GUILDHALL SCHOOL OF MUSIC AND DRAMA
✨Know Your Educational Vision
Before the interview, take some time to really understand the educational vision and strategy of the Centre for Young Musicians. Be prepared to discuss how your leadership style and experience align with their goals, and think about specific examples from your past that demonstrate your ability to shape and deliver a successful curriculum.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Experience
This role requires significant leadership experience, so come ready to share your journey. Highlight your experience in line managing staff, particularly in music education settings. Prepare anecdotes that illustrate your approach to recruitment, induction, and staff development, as well as how you've fostered an inclusive environment for students.
✨Demonstrate Data-Driven Decision Making
Quality assurance and data-informed improvement are key aspects of this role. Be ready to discuss how you've used data to evaluate and enhance educational programmes in the past. Bring examples of how you've monitored progress and made adjustments based on feedback and outcomes to ensure high-quality learning experiences.
✨Emphasise Your Commitment to Inclusion
The ideal candidate should show a clear commitment to widening participation and supporting progression for underrepresented backgrounds. Think about how you can articulate your dedication to inclusion in music education. Share specific initiatives or strategies you've implemented that have successfully engaged diverse student populations.