Teacher of Academic Music & Musicianship in Bushey

We are seeking to appoint an inspirational teacher capable of delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning in a world-leading specialist music school. The Academic Music Department at the Purcell School offers a unique programme of study, which forms an important part of every student’s specialist musical education. Analysis and aural awareness are at the heart of everything we do and high-level training in these areas is a core component of the curriculum for every student.

In Years 7 to 9, students study a series of topics which form the basis of creative and analytical projects, designed to expand their general musical knowledge and inform their practical studies. In Year 10, students follow the AQA GCSE music syllabus and in Year 11, they prepare for Sixth Form study through an in-depth study of larger scale works. In the Sixth Form, we currently offer A Level Music (OCR) and, in an exciting expansion of our provision, we have recently announced our intention to offer a new vocational pathway (RSL Diploma in Creative Music Industry) from September 2026. Students opting for the vocational programme will complete a broad music course, equivalent in size to three A Levels, with tailored classes designed for those in our classical performance, jazz, commercial, music production and composition departments.

The school’s Musicianship Programme runs in tandem with the above. In Years 7 and 8, pupils attend three Musicianship classes per week: these small-group classes include opportunities to explore music theory and analysis from aural and practical perspectives. From Year 9, students can choose from a range of electives (including advanced analysis, grades 6-8 music theory, keyboard skills, music technology and conducting), all designed to complement their instrumental studies and their core aural, analysis and exam classes. All students attend a weekly composition class and choir rehearsal.

Purcell students achieve exceptional grades in Music and nearly all go on to study the subject at either conservatoire or university. Students who intend to apply to university to read Music are prepared for entrance examinations and interviews, with recent school leavers taking up places at Oxford, Cambridge, Harvard and SOAS.

Music teachers at the Purcell school have a varied timetable and the successful candidate should expect to contribute to the delivery of music history, analysis, composition and general musicianship programmes and to work with students from across the age range. This will include classes linked to GCSE, A Level and Diploma programmes. In addition, we encourage our teachers to develop their own projects and courses, as related to their own musical specialisms and interests. Depending on expertise, experience and qualifications, there may also be opportunities for the successful candidate to contribute to the delivery of performance classes and/or our music technology programmes.

Terms and Conditions

This is a full time post to start on 1st September 2026. The salary will be based on the School’s salary scale, according to the successful candidate’s experience, with a contributory pension scheme. Children of staff are not eligible to be educated at the School except through the normal admissions and audition process. The post is subject to a probationary period. All posts are subject to regular appraisal. All members of staff are expected to contribute fully to the School’s extra-curricular and/or boarding provision. Lunch can be taken free of charge at the School during term time.

How to Apply

If you wish to apply, please complete the School’s Application Form (available on our website) and send it with a supporting Personal Statement to the Principal as soon as possible. Please do not send a separate curriculum vitae as these will not be accepted. Closing date for applications is Sunday 15th March 2026. Interviews week of 23rd March 2026. Personal statements should outline your experience, subject knowledge and evidence your achievements. If you have a specific area of specialism or industry experience, please demonstrate how this enables you to create inspirational lessons. The Personal Statement is your opportunity to tell us how your skills and experience, both within your subject and beyond, can contribute to an outstanding student experience. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the school where you will have the opportunity to meet key staff and to lead a short lesson. Interviews will explore subject knowledge, pastoral experience and the ability to relate appropriately to students. Candidates will be required to produce evidence of identity and qualifications prior to the interview. Applications should be made to the Principal, sent by email or by letter to: Recruitment, The Purcell School, Aldenham Road, Bushey, Hertfordshire, WD23 2TS.

Job Specification

The Purcell School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.

All members of staff are ultimately answerable to the Principal. Your line manager is the Head of Academic Music. This job specification sets out the duties of the post at the time of drafting. Specific responsibilities are as follows:

• To teach music history, analysis, harmony, composition and general musicianship classes
• To assess students’ work regularly and provide feedback in line with departmental policies
• To supervise the completion of music coursework
• To contribute to the marking and moderation of coursework for GCSE, A Level and vocational programmes
• To attend weekly music department and academic music department staff meetings
• To maintain an up-to-date knowledge of developments in musicology, music education and the music industry