Location: St Albans, Hertfordshire
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 St Albans 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 St Albans
The school in St Albans 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 St Albans, we welcome your application and CV.
Looking for a Passionate Head of Performing Arts in St Albans! employer: Marchant Recruitment
Marchant Recruitment is an excellent employer, offering a vibrant and supportive work culture that prioritises the professional growth of its staff. As a Nursery Teacher in Hillingdon, you will benefit from a collaborative team environment, opportunities for continuous development, and the chance to make a meaningful impact on young learners' lives in an Outstanding primary school setting.
