At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and develop high-quality music education across Surrey, building strong local partnerships.
- Company: Surrey Arts, dedicated to enriching lives through music and arts.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, generous holiday, pension, and wellbeing support.
- Other info: Hybrid role with opportunities for professional development and community engagement.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in the community while shaping future musicians.
- Qualifications: Qualified Teacher Status or significant experience in music education and leadership.
The predicted salary is between 47142 - 47142 € per year.
We are seeking an Area Manager to join our team playing a central role in leading high‑quality music education across the East of Surrey. This key strategic post focuses on building strong local partnerships and shaping area‑based music provision.
As an Area Manager within Surrey Arts, you will lead and develop music and arts programmes across Tandridge, Reigate & Banstead, and Epsom & Ewell. You will work with schools, music centres, community partners and the Surrey Arts senior leadership team to deliver a broad and balanced musical offer. The role is hybrid, requiring a minimum of one day a week in the Surrey Arts office in Guildford and the remainder of the time split between schools, out‑of‑school centres and home.
Responsibilities include:
- Provide strategic direction for music and arts provision in the region and set clear excellence targets.
- Build and nurture partnerships with schools, community organisations and music centres to deepen engagement and expand sustained musical learning.
- Lead, support and develop an area team, including a Deputy Area Manager and instrumental teachers, through performance conversations and professional development.
- Ensure inclusion, equity and access to a wide range of instruments, genres and pathways, particularly those currently underrepresented.
- Deliver up to 20% of time to teaching and delivery on a developmental basis.
- Act as the main point of contact for the area and contribute to safeguarding as a Deputy DSL.
Qualifications:
- Qualified Teacher Status or sizeable experience as an effective music educator and leader.
- A clear vision for high‑quality music education and a proven record of building partnerships.
- Line‑management experience with accountability for delivery outcomes by others.
- Demonstrable innovative approaches that support young people to achieve outstanding musical outcomes.
Our Offer to You:
- £47,142 per annum salary (subject to increase with the 26-27 financial year pay award).
- 26 days holiday, rising to 28 after 2 years and 31 after 5 years.
- Option to buy up to 10 days of additional annual leave.
- A generous local‑government salary‑related pension.
- Up to 5 days of carer’s leave and 2 paid volunteering days per year.
- Paternity, adoption and dependants leave.
- An Employee Assistance Programme (EAP) for health and wellbeing.
- Access to a learning and development hub and a wide range of resources.
- Wellbeing and lifestyle discounts, including gym, travel and shopping.
- The chance to make a real difference to the lives of our residents.
- Opportunities to participate in regional and national music education professional development.
Local Government Reorganisation (LGR): Surrey County Council is undergoing Local Government Reorganisation, moving from a two‑tier system to two new unitary councils in April 2027. Employees employed on 1 April 2027 will transfer to one of the new organisations, retaining current terms and conditions.
Our Commitment: We are a disability‑confident employer and guarantee an interview to anyone who has shared a disability on the application form and meets the minimum criteria. The UK Establishment is fully committed to supporting candidates with any adjustments and welcoming an inclusive workplace.
How to Apply: To be considered for shortlisting, please submit a CV and answer the following questions – no more than 300 words per answer:
- Why are you suited to this role?
- What does high‑quality music education mean to you?
- Describe an example where you led others through a challenging situation and what you learned.
- Describe a project or initiative you developed that successfully engaged children or young people in musical learning and its impact.
- Describe a time you built or strengthened a partnership with a school, community organisation or external agency and the difference it made.
Contact Us: Please contact us for any questions relating to the role, including flexible working requests or barriers to employment. Interviews will take place at the Surrey Arts Office, GU3 3BH.
Area Manager in Guildford employer: Music Mark
Surrey Arts is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic work environment that fosters creativity and collaboration in the field of music education. With a strong commitment to employee wellbeing, generous holiday allowances, and professional development opportunities, staff are empowered to make a meaningful impact in the community while enjoying a supportive and inclusive culture. The hybrid working model allows for flexibility, making it an ideal workplace for those passionate about enriching the lives of young people through music across the beautiful East of Surrey.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Area Manager in Guildford
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to people in the music education field, especially those connected to Surrey Arts. Attend local events or workshops to meet potential colleagues and partners – you never know who might help you land that Area Manager role!
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your passion for music education! When you get the chance to chat with interviewers or during networking, share your vision for high-quality music education. Let them see your enthusiasm and innovative ideas for engaging young people in musical learning.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for those tricky questions! Think about your past experiences leading teams and building partnerships. Have specific examples ready that highlight your skills and how you've overcome challenges in music education – this will set you apart from other candidates.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re genuinely interested in being part of the Surrey Arts team. Don’t forget to tailor your answers to the questions they ask – make it personal and relevant!
We think you need these skills to ace Area Manager in Guildford
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV is tailored to the Area Manager role. Highlight your experience in music education and partnership building, as these are key for us. Use specific examples that align with the job description to show how you fit the bill.
Answer Thoughtfully:When answering the application questions, take your time! We want to see your passion for high-quality music education. Use clear examples from your past experiences to illustrate your points and make them relatable.
Show Your Leadership Skills:Since this role involves leading a team, don’t shy away from showcasing your leadership skills. Share stories of how you've supported others and navigated challenges. We love to see how you can inspire and develop those around you!
Apply Through Our Website:Remember to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us directly. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our team at Surrey Arts. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Music Mark
✨Know Your Music Education Stuff
Make sure you brush up on the latest trends and best practices in music education. Be ready to discuss your vision for high-quality music education and how you can implement it in the role of Area Manager.
✨Showcase Your Partnership Skills
Think of specific examples where you've successfully built partnerships with schools or community organisations. Be prepared to share these stories, highlighting the impact of your collaborations on musical learning.
✨Demonstrate Leadership Experience
Since this role involves leading a team, come equipped with examples of how you've managed and developed others. Discuss your approach to performance conversations and professional development, showcasing your ability to inspire and support your team.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about challenging situations you've faced in your career. Prepare to discuss how you navigated these challenges, what you learned, and how those experiences will help you in this new role.
