At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire creativity in Music and Drama, shaping a thriving Performing Arts department.
- Company: A welcoming secondary school in Reading with a focus on creativity and student development.
- Benefits: Full-time permanent role with opportunities for professional growth and artistic impact.
- Other info: Join a supportive team dedicated to fostering artistic excellence and personal development.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through engaging performances and creative education.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status and experience in teaching Music and/or Drama required.
The predicted salary is between 31650 - 43607 £ per year.
Location: Reading, Berkshire
Start Date: September 2026
Nature: Full-Time / Permanent
Lead and inspire creativity, performance, and artistic excellence within a supportive and ambitious learning environment. A welcoming and forward-thinking secondary school in Reading is seeking a passionate and experienced Head of Performing Arts to lead its successful Music and Drama provision. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious educator to shape and develop a thriving department that values creativity, performance, inclusion, and student-centred learning.
About the Role
The Head of Performing Arts will lead the delivery of an engaging and ambitious curriculum across Music and Drama at Key Stages 3 and 4 (KS5 desirable). The successful candidate will inspire students through high-quality teaching, exciting performance opportunities, and a strong commitment to artistic development. Working closely with senior leaders and the wider Performing Arts team, you will oversee curriculum development, departmental improvement, extracurricular provision, and whole-school enrichment initiatives, ensuring students achieve both academically and creatively.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and manage the Performing Arts department, including Music and Drama
- Plan and deliver high-quality lessons that engage, challenge, and inspire students
- Teach Music and/or Drama across KS3–KS4 (KS5 desirable)
- Develop a broad, creative, and inclusive Performing Arts curriculum
- Prepare students effectively for GCSE and examination performance requirements
- Monitor student progress and use assessment data to raise attainment
- Differentiate learning to support SEND, EAL, and high-attaining pupils
- Maintain high expectations for behaviour, participation, and achievement
- Lead departmental planning, moderation, and quality assurance processes
- Organise and oversee extracurricular activities including productions, concerts, showcases, theatre trips, and enrichment events
- Support and develop colleagues within the department through effective leadership and collaboration
- Communicate effectively with parents, carers, and external organisations
- Uphold safeguarding, equality, and school policies at all times
The Ideal Candidate
- Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
- Experience teaching Music and/or Drama within a secondary school setting
- Previous leadership or departmental responsibility experience desirable
- Strong subject knowledge and passion for Performing Arts education
- Excellent classroom management and behaviour strategies
- Ability to motivate, challenge, and inspire learners of all abilities
- Skilled in curriculum planning, assessment, and departmental development
- Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills
- Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
- Legal right to work in the UK
About the School in Reading
The school in Reading is proud of its inclusive and supportive ethos, with a strong focus on academic achievement, creativity, and personal development. Staff collaborate effectively to create a positive learning culture where students are encouraged to express themselves confidently and achieve their full potential. The Performing Arts department is well-resourced and highly valued within the school community, offering students a wide range of opportunities to participate in productions, performances, concerts, and creative projects that promote confidence, teamwork, and artistic excellence.
Apply
If you are a passionate and committed Performing Arts leader looking to inspire young people and contribute to a thriving school community in Reading, we welcome your application and CV.
Looking for a Passionate Head of Performing Arts in Reading! employer: Marchant Recruitment
Join a welcoming and forward-thinking secondary school in Reading, where creativity and artistic excellence are at the heart of our mission. As a Head of Performing Arts, you will thrive in a supportive environment that values collaboration and personal development, with ample opportunities for professional growth and leadership. Our well-resourced department offers exciting extracurricular activities, ensuring that both staff and students can express their creativity and achieve their full potential.
