Preparatory Head of Music

OUR SCHOOL:

Reddam House Durbanville offers a co-educational, non-denominational, premier, private school environment recognizing, nurturing and developing the individuality of each student placed in our care and encouraging students to maximize their potential. Our school offers a dual curriculum, offering both Cambridge Assessment International and IEB education. Reddam House Durbanville offers a holistic, innovative educational experience, encouraging students to realize their unique gifts, talents and abilities in pursuit of academic excellence.

We offer a premium education from 18 months to 19 years old, in the A Level post matric programme. Ideally located in Durbanville, Reddam House Durbanville seamlessly blends Boarding and Day schooling and takes pride in a bespoke learning approach, safeguarding and dedicated pastoral care.

We provide premium education from 1 – 2 years old to A Levels as a post-matric option, to families living in the leafy suburbs of Durbanville, Vredekloof, Welgedacht, Plattekloof, Blouberg, Tableview, West Beach, Melkbos, Kanonberg & Welgemoed.

We offer weekly and termly boarding from Grade 6 – 12, providing a home-away-from-home to students outside South Africa & neighbouring countries, including Botswana, Namibia, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Mozambique and Mauritius.

https://www.durbanville.reddamhouse.com/

ROLE SUMMARY:

We are seeking an enthusiastic, dynamic and inspiring Head of Music for our Preparatory School. The successful candidate will lead and grow the Music Department, fostering a culture of excellence, creativity and joyful participation in music across the school.

The role requires a passionate educator and leader who adopts a holistic approach to teaching and learning, nurturing each child’s musical ability, confidence and love of performance, while supporting their overall well-being and development.

The Head of Music will be responsible for delivering a vibrant and inclusive music programme that includes classroom music, choirs, ensembles, performances and cultural events. The successful candidate should be able to create an engaging and structured environment where children are encouraged to explore, collaborate, perform and achieve their full potential in music.

Strong leadership, organisational skills and the ability to inspire both children and colleagues are essential to ensure the continued growth and excellence of the Preparatory Music Department.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Leading and managing the Preparatory Music Department, ensuring a high standard of teaching and learning across all grades.
• Planning, preparing and delivering engaging and inspiring classroom music lessons aligned with the curriculum.
• Developing and overseeing a vibrant co-curricular music programme, including choirs, ensembles, instrumental programmes, concerts and special performances.
• Creating a structured, inclusive and stimulating musical environment that encourages participation, creativity, collaboration and excellence.
• Identifying and nurturing musical talent while fostering confidence and a love of music in all children.
• Managing music resources, instruments, budgets and departmental administration effectively.
• Assessing, recording and reporting on children’s progress, including setting and moderating assessments and writing meaningful report comments.
• Mentoring and supporting music staff and visiting instrumental teachers where applicable.
• Reflecting on and continually refining departmental practice to ensure innovation and high standards.
• Demonstrating a commitment to ongoing professional development, both personally and within the broader school community.
• Communicating professionally and timeously with parents, responding to correspondence within 24 hours.
• Attending and leading school events, assemblies, productions and special occasions as required by the Head.
• Upholding professional standards with regard to punctuality, conduct and quality of work.

THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:

Skills and Previous Experience:

• A minimum of 5 years’ teaching experience with young children in a Preparatory/Primary School setting.
• Confident and proficient in the use of ICT and music technology to enhance teaching, learning and performance experiences.
• Previous experience teaching and leading music programmes for young children, including classroom music, choirs, ensembles, or instrumental instruction.

Qualifications and Accreditations:

• A university degree in a relevant subject (e.g., Music, Music Education, or Education with Music specialization).
• Certified teaching status (SACE registration or equivalent).
• Legal right to work in South Africa

Personal Competencies and Attributes:

• An unwavering commitment to the growth, development and musical potential of each child.
• A genuine passion for teaching and sharing music in its many forms.
• Excellent organisational, leadership and time-management skills.
• Strong classroom and ensemble practice with the ability to engage, inspire and motivate young children.
• A mindset of continuous improvement, reflective practice and professional growth.
• Ability to collaborate effectively with colleagues, teaching assistants and visiting music staff to foster a cohesive and thriving music programme.

SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT:

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.