The job requirements are detailed below. Where applicable the skills, qualifications and memberships required have also been included. Workplace role categories describe our approach to workplace attendance
Salary: £47,620 to £53,310 per annum (inclusive of Inner London Weighting), pro-rated to £9,524 - £10,668 per annum for 0.2 FTE, depending on experience
Contractual Hours: Part-time, 7 hours per week (0.2 FTE)
Basis: Permanent
Attachments: Job Information Pack
Guildhall School is a vibrant, international community of musicians, actors and production artists in the heart of the City of London. Ranked as number one in Arts, Drama & Music by the Complete University Guide 2025, and in the top four in the world for Music and Performing Arts by the QS World University Rankings 2025, we deliver world-class professional training in partnership with distinguished artists, companies and ensembles. A global leader in creative and professional practice, we promote innovation, experiment and research, and are also one of the UK’s leading providers of lifelong learning in the performing arts, offering inspiring training for children, young people, adult learners, and creative and business professionals.
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Organisation Summary:
Part of the Guildhall Young Artists network, Centre for Young Musicians (CYM) offers music provision to talented young people from all backgrounds in a thriving musical environment. As a Centre for Advanced Training under the Department for Education’s National Grant for Music and Dance, CYM is a key provider of instrumental, vocal and ensemble tuition in London. Our Saturday school and holiday courses offer a sustained and progressive route from the early stages of learning through to music college entrance. Children start on our primary years programme (age 5 upwards) progressing to the Full Programme (aged 8 to 18).
Due to the retirement of the current post holder, an exciting opportunity has arisen for an experienced and inspirational musician and educator to join CYM as the Head of Percussion.
Role Summary:
Heads of Department play a pivotal role at CYM, providing leadership within their department and contributing to the Centre’s broader development and success. They are responsible for creating a safe and inclusive learning environment, maintaining high standards of teaching, and ensuring students make excellent progress. As part of their timetable they also teach, leading by example and demonstrating best practices. Additionally, they oversee departmental resources and foster strong relationships with parents, students, and staff, addressing issues as needed to maintain a positive and productive environment.
Outline of essential requirements:
The ideal candidate will be an inspirational and experienced teacher, with in-depth knowledge of percussion instruments and pedagogy. They will have a proven track record in ensemble leadership and/or teaching students of varying ages and abilities. They will have strong organisational skills to manage the department's tutors, timetables, activities and resources, along with excellent communication abilities to liaise effectively with parents, staff, and external stakeholders. A commitment to fostering a positive, inclusive learning environment is essential.
Any specific requirements (hours of work/flexibility):
Days to be worked: 1day per week, which must be a Saturday during CYM term time.
It should be recognised that occasional attendance at evening concerts will be expected, with time given in lieu.
This role requires an Enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service check.
Benefits:
We offer a wide range of staff benefits including a great pension scheme, season ticket, cycle to work scheme, free access to museums and galleries, discounts on retail, healthcare and on-site cafes and restaurants. You’ll have access to our Employee Assistance Programme, trained Mental Health First aiders and City of London as well as Barbican staff networks.
If you would like to have an informal conversation about the role, please e-mail Bryan Welton, Head of CYM, at Bryan.Welton@gsmd.ac.uk.
For more details, please download the Job Information Pack.
To apply online, please click the Apply Online button.
Closing Date is Thursday 9th October at 12 Noon. Please note that we are unable to accept late applications.
All applications must include a completed application form. Please note that late applications will not be accepted.
Interview dates are provisionally scheduled for:
· 1st Round (panel interview) - Wednesday 15th October
· 2nd Round (teaching round at CYM) – Saturday 18th October
Alternatively, please contact the Corporate Recruitment Unit on 020 7332 3978 (24hr answerphone) quoting OOGS9253. A minicom service for the hearing impaired is available on 020 7332 3732.
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Guildhall School welcomes applications from people of all backgrounds and experiences. We are particularly keen to encourage interest from people with disabilities, LGBTQIA+, Black, Asian, and other global majority backgrounds who are currently under-represented at Guildhall School. In recognising the positive value of diversity, we want to better reflect and understand the communities we exist to serve. We are members of the Disability Confident Scheme and guarantee to interview all disabled candidates who would like to be considered under this scheme and who meet the minimum essential criteria for the role. We support and provide adjustments for people with disabilities – if you have a disability and need help with the application process please contact us.
The Guildhall School is committed to Safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and adults at risk and expects all employees, workers, and volunteers to share this commitment.