The Purcell School: Head of Strings Department

This is a once in a life-time opportunity to shape the future of music at one of the most distinguished and famous music schools in the world. We are a secondary school and home to 200 young musicians for 34 weeks a year. Students live and breathe music, living and learning in a community that is unique, open and inspiring. Staff are equally energetic, passionate and committed. The Head of Department role is crucially important, enjoying close interaction with students and staff. You will personally manage your studentsʼ musical programme, assess their progress and help to look after their wellbeing; you will develop artistic and creative projects and experiences; forge close strategic partnerships with other relevant institutions and individuals; proactively recruit students through networking and outreach activities; manage an outstanding team of teachers; and enhance good relationships with parents and colleagues. As in a conservatoire setting, Heads of Department are senior members of school staff and will need to have the necessary skills and profile to command the respect of students, potential students and colleagues both within school and the music industry more generally. Heads of Department play a leading role in shaping the Schoolʼs strategic ambitions and are afforded autonomy over how they run and manage their own departments, under the oversight of the Director of Music. There are 70-80 1st study students, of whom around half are violinists and recruitment is also healthy for viola, cello, double bass and classical guitar. Students have a broad range of classes, groups and performance opportunities, repertoire and styles. All go on to top conservatoires and universities in the UK and overseas.

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.