At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead academic music and inspire students through a vibrant performance programme.
- Company: Loretto School, a nurturing environment for musical talent.
- Benefits: Generous pension, free lunches, training opportunities, and family-friendly policies.
- Why this job: Shape the future of music education and make a lasting impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Degree in Music, teaching qualification, and experience with A Level music.
- Other info: Engage in a supportive community with excellent career growth and pastoral roles.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Loretto School seeks an inspirational, strategic and highly effective Director of Music to lead academic music, cultivate a thriving performance programme across the whole school, and ensure that music continues to play a central and joyful role in school life. You will be an enthusiastic and talented classroom practitioner, able to teach up to A Level, with a strong commitment to cocurricular music and the ability to inspire pupils with significant musical talent as well as those whose interests lie elsewhere.
Main Purpose of the Role
You will have primary responsibility for the delivery of academic music and contribute fully to the cocurricular programme. You will be responsible for the performance programme in close collaboration with the Head of Drama, Dramatist in Residence, and the Junior School, ensuring a coherent, whole school musical pathway. This is a full-time permanent post working term-time only. Loretto has its own salary scale and salary will be determined by experience and aptitude for the role. There is also a fee remission (non-contractual) for staff with children at the School.
The role involves regular evening and weekend commitments during term time for rehearsals, services, concerts, productions, competitions and trips. All members of staff have broader roles in the pastoral care of children and the extracurricular life of the school. You will be a tutor to around ten tutees and will also undertake an evening duty in a boarding house once a week.
Experience, Skills and Qualifications
- Recognised teaching qualification and be registered with the GTCS or in the process of achieving this.
- Degree in Music.
- Successful teaching of Music up to A Level and experience in preparing candidates for ABRSM/Trinity (practical and theory) and public examinations.
- Proven leadership of ensembles and choral groups; experience of organising concerts, Chapel services and musical productions.
- Personal experience of professional standard music making.
- Confident conductor/director with excellent rehearsal technique.
- High level organisation, communication and stakeholder engagement skills.
Benefits
- Generous pension scheme
- Family friendly policies
- Free lunches during term time
- Annual review and opportunities for training and continued professional development
- A range of staff benefits including Bike to Work Scheme
- School Fees Remission (non-contractual benefit)
- Opportunities for involvement in the wider school community
Application
If you think this is the right opportunity for you, please apply through the School Talent website. You will be asked to submit a CV and supporting statement as part of the application process. If you have any questions about the application process please contact jobs@loretto.com. You must have the right to work in the UK to apply for this post.
Interviews
Interviews are expected to take place week commencing 9 March 2026. Closing Date: Tuesday 24 February 2026 at 11:59PM (BST).
The process will involve an interview with the Head; a panel interview with the Senior Deputy Head, Junior School Head, and Deputy Head Academic; a group discussion with pupils; and teaching a music lesson. Ideally, these will take place on site, though online interviews may be arranged for candidates applying from overseas.
The School is committed to equal opportunities for all its pupils and staff. Loretto is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. In accordance with the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) Order, all applicants who are offered employment will be subject to Disclosure Scotland Protecting Vulnerable Groups (PVG) Scheme checks before appointment is confirmed. This will include details of cautions, reprimands, or final warnings, as well as convictions. The cost of this application will be met by the School. Annually, every member of staff is required to complete and sign to confirm that they have received child protection training and will uphold its requirements.
Director of Music employer: The Independent Schools Council
Contact Detail:
The Independent Schools Council Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Director of Music
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, dive into Loretto School's ethos and values. This will help you connect your passion for music with their mission, showing them you're not just a great musician but also a perfect fit for their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that teaching demo! Since you'll be showcasing your teaching skills, pick a piece that highlights your strengths. Make it engaging and interactive – remember, you want to inspire those pupils, even in a short session!
✨Tip Number 3
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff members if you can. They might share insights about the interview process or what the school values most in a Director of Music. Plus, it shows your genuine interest in the role!
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it keeps everything organised on our end, making it easier for us to review your amazing qualifications.
We think you need these skills to ace Director of Music
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Music: When writing your application, let your love for music shine through! Share your experiences and how they’ve shaped your teaching style. We want to see that you’re not just a teacher, but a true music enthusiast.
Tailor Your CV and Supporting Statement: Make sure your CV and supporting statement are tailored to the role of Director of Music. Highlight your leadership experience, teaching qualifications, and any successful performances or projects you've led. We’re looking for someone who can inspire!
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use bullet points where necessary and avoid jargon. We appreciate straightforward communication, so make it easy for us to see why you’re the perfect fit for this role.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to apply through the School Talent website! It’s the best way for us to receive your application and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to navigate!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know Your Music Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the curriculum and performance aspects of music education. Brush up on your knowledge of A Level music, ABRSM/Trinity exams, and be ready to discuss how you would inspire students with varying levels of musical talent.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of your experience leading ensembles and organising concerts. Be ready to discuss your rehearsal techniques and how you engage with both students and staff to create a thriving music programme.
✨Engage with the Pupils
During the group discussion with pupils, be approachable and enthusiastic. Show them that you’re not just a teacher but also a mentor who genuinely cares about their musical journey. Think about how you can connect with them on a personal level.
✨Demonstrate Your Teaching Style
When teaching a music lesson during the interview, make it interactive and engaging. Use your creativity to showcase your teaching methods and how you can make music enjoyable for all students, regardless of their skill level.