At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire creativity in Music and Drama, shaping a thriving Performing Arts department.
- Company: A welcoming secondary school in Taunton 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 47000 - 131056 € per year.
Location: Taunton, Somerset
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 Taunton 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
- Differentiated 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 Taunton
The school in Taunton 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 Taunton, we welcome your application and CV.
Looking for a Passionate Head of Performing Arts in Taunton! employer: Marchant Recruitment
Join a welcoming and forward-thinking secondary school in Taunton, where creativity and artistic excellence are at the heart of our mission. We offer a supportive work culture that values collaboration and professional growth, providing ample opportunities for leadership development and involvement in enriching extracurricular activities. As a member of our dedicated team, you will inspire students and contribute to a vibrant community that celebrates diversity and inclusion.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Looking for a Passionate Head of Performing Arts in Taunton!
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local arts events, and connect with people in the industry. You never know who might have a lead on that perfect Head of Performing Arts role!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion! Create a portfolio that highlights your best performances, lesson plans, and any extracurricular activities you've led. This will help you stand out and demonstrate your commitment to artistic excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Tailor your responses to show how your vision aligns with their goals, especially around creativity and inclusion in the Performing Arts.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing passionate candidates who are eager to join our community.
We think you need these skills to ace Looking for a Passionate Head of Performing Arts in Taunton!
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for Performing Arts shine through! Share specific experiences that highlight your love for music and drama, and how you’ve inspired students in the past.
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the role. Highlight relevant experience in teaching Music and Drama, and any leadership roles you've held. We want to see how you can lead our Performing Arts department to new heights!
Be Clear and Concise:Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary to make it easy for us to read. We appreciate a well-structured application that gets straight to the good stuff!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity in Taunton. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Marchant Recruitment
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the latest trends and practices in Performing Arts education. Brush up on your knowledge of curriculum development, assessment strategies, and how to engage students creatively. This will show that you're not just passionate but also informed and ready to lead.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led a team or project in the past. Whether it’s organising a school production or mentoring colleagues, be ready to discuss your leadership style and how you inspire others. This is key for a Head of Performing Arts role!
✨Engage with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's values and mission. Be prepared to discuss how your vision for the Performing Arts aligns with their focus on creativity, inclusion, and student-centred learning. This shows you’re a good fit for their community.
✨Plan for the Future
Think about your long-term goals for the Performing Arts department. Prepare to share innovative ideas for curriculum development, extracurricular activities, and how you would enhance student engagement. This demonstrates your ambition and commitment to artistic excellence.
