JOB DESCIRPTION
VISITING MUSIC TEACHER VIOLIN AND JUNIOR STRINGS PROJECT (JSP)
HIGHGATE SCHOOL
Job Title:
Visiting Music Teacher – Junior Strings Project (Violin/Viola Specialist)
Salary:
£34.15/hr individual tuition, £38.40/hr shared lessons, £40.10/hr ensembles
Reporting to:
The Head of Junior Music
Location:
Highgate, London
Type of position:
Part-Time, Term-Time only
THE SCHOOL
Highgate School was established in 1565 by a Royal Charter of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth the First. Sir
Roger Cholmeley, our Founder, was granted Letters Patent to found ‘a grammar school…for good
education and instruction’. Today Highgate is a flourishing coeducational independent school which includes
the Senior School for pupils aged 11-18; the Junior School for pupils aged 7-11 and the Pre-Preparatory
School for pupils aged 3-7. There are currently some 1,550 pupils at Highgate and the School employs
approximately 400 full-time or part-time teaching and support staff.
The School is situated in one of the most attractive and sought after areas of North London, 20 minutes by
tube from Central London and adjacent to Hampstead Heath. The hilltop site in Highgate Village is the
historic site of the Senior School. A few hundred yards along Hampstead Lane in Bishopswood Road lie the
Junior and Pre-Preparatory Schools and the extensive playing fields, adjacent to the open spaces of
Kenwood and Hampstead Heath. The Northern Line underground station is a short walk away and it is
four miles to Central London.
Working at Highgate offers the opportunity to be part of a vibrant and welcoming community, committed
to academic excellence and the highest standards of pastoral care for its pupils. The Governors consider
the development of excellence in the education offered to the pupils to be the underlying purpose of
activities undertaken by all staff.
Highgate is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo
child protection screening appropriate to this post, including checks with past employers and the
Disclosure and Barring Service.
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MUSIC AT HIGHGATE SCHOOL
The school has a long and distinguished musical tradition: former pupils include John Rutter CBE, Sir John
Tavener, Howard Shelley OBE and Daniel Hope. The Senior School Music Department has its base in Dyne
House at the heart of the school, and the Junior School Music Department is located in the new
Temporary Junior School Site on Bishopswood Road. In January 2016 the department will move into the
newly refurbished, re-equipped and expanded Junior School site.
Facilities
The Junior Music Department has a fully equipped classroom and six instrumental teaching rooms.
Furthermore, there is also the Richards Music Centre which is used for Informal Concerts and large
ensemble rehearsals. Junior School pupils also visit the Senior School on a regular basis to attend and
participate in concerts, services and rehearsals. The Senior Music Department has a purpose-built
performance auditorium seating 250, a recital/rehearsal hall with space for 80, three classrooms, 11
teaching/practice rooms, a music IT room housing thirteen computers and keyboards, four offices/teaching
rooms for the full time staff, and an extensive department library.
Staffing
The Director of Music is assisted by four full-time and three part-time members of staff in addition to 36
part-time visiting music teachers and a full-time Administrator. The four full-time members of staff are the
Deputy Director of Music (who is also Head of Instrumental Music and Head of Strings), the Head of
Singing and Vocal Studies, and the Key Stage Coordinator. The three part-time staff members are the Head
of Woodwind and Percussion, the Head of Keyboard, and the Head of Brass.
Visiting teachers run the guitar ensemble, jazz groups and rock music workshops as well as being involved
in the chamber music programme. There are strong links with the Junior School, which has its own Head of
Junior Music and which provides choristers for the Boys’ Chapel Choir and the Girls’ Chapel Choir, and the
Pre-Prep.
Activities and Concerts
In the Junior School, the following rehearse weekly: Boys’ Chapel Choir, Girls’ Chapel Choir, Senior String
Orchestra, Junior String Orchestra, Senior Chamber Ensemble, Junior Chamber Ensemble, Woodwind
Ensemble, Brass Band, Guitar Ensemble, Junior Choir and Senior Choir. Chamber Music includes several
string ensembles and a piano trio, and there are also several rock bands. In the Senior School following
rehearse weekly: Symphony Orchestra, Chamber Orchestra, String Camerata, String Sinfonietta, Symphonic
Band, Concert Band, Jazz Orchestra, Saxophone Choir, Saxophone Ensemble, Brass Ensemble, Concert
Choir, Boys’ Chapel Choir, Girls’ Chapel Choir, Jazz Choir, Chorale, A Cappella, Percussion Ensemble, and
Guitar Ensemble. Chamber Music includes several string quartets, two piano trios, several wind and brass
ensembles, four Barbershop groups and three saxophone groups. Jazz is encouraged. Rock music is catered
for in occasional workshops and Bands’ Gig events.
Among the wide range of concerts the pupils join professional musicians for a concert in a major central
London venue (such as St John’s, Smith Square or Southwark Cathedral) every year. There are other major
ensemble concerts throughout the year. There is a Music Festival at the end of the Summer Term, involving
a programme of workshops and master classes taken by leading professional musicians and several
concerts.
There is a regular programme of weekly concerts. Small-scale concerts are given from time-to-time outside
school at venues such as Lauderdale House in Highgate Village and at Burgh House in Hampstead. There is
an annual House Music competition (vocal and instrumental sections) and there are also solo instrumental
and singing competitions.
Tours abroad have been undertaken by the Chapel Choir, Chorale, Symphonic Band and Junior Ensembles.
A successful tour to Venice by the Chamber Orchestra, Chorale and the Senior Wind Ensemble took place
in April 2011. The Junior Ensembles visited Paris in the Summer of 2012 and the Lazarus Ensemble,
Chamber Orchestra and Chorale visited Vienna at Easter 2013.
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The Junior School Strings Project
In September 2012 Highgate School launched an exciting new strings initiative, the Junior Strings Project
(JSP). The project allows all Year 3 pupils to receive a class strings lesson each week as part of their school
curriculum. Each class is taken by a group of instrumental teachers with approximately one teacher for
every 3 to 4 pupils. At the beginning of the year pupils can choose to play Violin, Viola, Cello or Double
Bass. Pupils who are already learning a string instrument when they come into Year 3 will go into the
‘advanced’ class where they play early chamber music and have the chance to further develop their
technique. Lessons are taught using the Kodály Method of musicianship, which is supported by using
repertoire by Sheila Nelson (founder of the Tower Hamlets String Project). From the Spring Term, higherachieving pupils are then invited to join the Junior String Orchestra which is rehearsed on a weekly basis by
the Head of Junior Music.
Individual Music Lessons
Individual music lessons are given in all the usual instruments and singing. In the Junior School over 80% of
the school have music lessons, either inside or outside the school. About 250 lessons are given per week. A
number of pupils attend the junior departments of London music colleges, as well as orchestras including
the National Children’s Orchestra of Great Britain.
Academic Curriculum
From September 2014 a new Scheme of Work for Key Stage 2 Music will be launched in the school, which
will incorporate the Kodály method of musicianship teaching. Pupils in Year 3 – 6 currently receive 75
minutes of Music each week, during which composition, performance and listening skills are nurtured and
developed. The successful candidate is therefore expected to support this by demonstrating a secure
knowledge of the Kodály method in his or her instrumental teaching.
Ensembles-in-Residence
The school enjoys associations with The Barbirolli String Quartet, Calefax Reed Quintet, Majestic Brass and
the International Baroque Players. These ensembles are involved in a regular programme of coaching,
masterclasses and concerts at the school.
Other
The school’s proximity to central London encourages visits to concerts and opera. Ensembles have taken
part in the National Festival of Music for Youth (leading to an appearance at the Schools Prom), the
Chamber Music Competition for Schools, the London Saxophone Festival and the Chorale are finalists in
the 2014 BBC Songs of Praise ‘Choir of the Year’ Competition.
THE ROLE
Highgate School seeks to appoint a dynamic and experienced instrumental teacher with a viola and/or violin
specialism to teach on the Junior Strings Project. The successful candidate will be able to lead group
instrumental lessons with flair and enthusiasm, and work within a highly motivated team of professional
string teachers. They should also demonstrate a love of music and an enthusiasm for communicating this
passion to pupils across a wide ability range.
In September 2012 an exciting new strings scheme the Junior Strings Project (JSP), was launched. The
project is designed for all Year 3 pupils, regardless of ability, to receive a class strings lesson each week as
part of their school curriculum. Each class is taken by 5 instrumental teachers so that there is one teacher
for groups of 3-4 pupils. At the beginning of the year pupils are allocated to play Violin, Viola, Cello or
Double Bass, and they are given an instrument to take home for the year (except double basses). Pupils
who already learn a string instrument when they come into Year 3 go into the Advanced JSP Class, where
they play early chamber music and have the opportunity to further develop their technique.
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MAIN RESPONSIBILITIES
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To teach 30 weeks of string tuition involving a whole class of year 3 pupils divided into smaller
groups (of up to 6 pupils). There will be four 30 minute lessons per week.
To teach 30-minute or 50-minute music lessons to pupils as requested by the Head of Junior Music.
To set an example of high standards to pupils by demonstrating the taught instrument in lessons.
To provide a considered programme of study tailored to each individual pupil that allows for
continuity from lesson to lesson.
To provide 30 music lessons to each pupil each academic year.
To ensure that each pupil is aware if his or her practice requirements for the next lesson and is
following those requirements.
To prepare pupils to perform in concerts and in other public events.
To prepare pupils for public exams as appropriate.
To write reports to parents or carers twice a year on each pupil’s progress.
PERSON SPECIFICATION
ESSENTIAL CRITERIA
Qualifications
and Professional
Bodies
Skills and
Experience
Must possess a qualification in his or her instrument to at least degree level or
hold a BA or equivalent in academic music.
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Personal
Attributes
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A secure knowledge and understanding of the Kodály Method and the
supporting repertoire by Sheila Nelson, which was used in the Tower
Hamlets Project and now at the Junior Royal Academy of Music’s
First String Experience course
Experience and a desire to teach the instrument and general musicianship in
both individual and group lessons
The ability to teach violin up to grade 8
The ability and desire to emphasise the encouragement of basic musical skills,
physical ease with the instrument and the enjoyment of playing, through
individual or group tuition and ensemble playing.
The ability to teach initial musical development, working imaginatively with
pulse, rhythm and pitch to lay the musical foundations for tuition in Viola in
subsequent years.
The ability to explore all elements of music, including note-reading, in an
active and stimulating fashion.
An understanding of the place of music in a school such as Highgate and
support it in his/her teaching
Setting the highest professional standards of dress, punctuality and politeness
and be prepared to demand the same of his/her pupils.
Must have an ability to relate well to both pupils and other teaching and
administrative members of the Music Department and the School and
communicate effectively with parents as necessary.
Have an exemplary attendance record in his or her present and previous
employment.
The Head of Junior Music, Ruth McCreath (ruth.mccreath@highgateschool.org.uk) will be
happy to answer any questions.
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CHILD PROTECTION
All members of staff must comply with the School’s Safeguarding & Welfare Policy which is posted on the
staff intranet. If in the course of carrying out the duties of the post the post holder becomes aware of any
actual or potential risks to the safety and welfare of our pupils, these concerns must be reported
immediately in accordance with the policy. A copy of this policy will accompany all offers of employment.
TERMS & CONDITIONS
The terms and conditions below do not form part of a contract and are for information only. Should you
be offered and accept employment with Highgate School you will receive a contract setting out in full your
terms and conditions. All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of references satisfactory to us,
proof of eligibility to work in the UK and enhanced checks with the Disclosure and Barring Service.
Salary
Individual lessons - £34.15p/hr; Shared lessons - £38.40p/hr; Ensembles - £40.10p/hr
Hours of Work
This is a part time post (hours to be agreed with the Head of Instrumental and there will be no guaranteed
weekly or monthly hours). Normal working hours are variable (between Monday and Friday, 8.45-4.00pm).
There is no guarantee that a full day of lessons can be given to any teacher in an academic year.
Probationary Period
This appointment will be subject to the completion of a probationary period of six months to the
satisfaction of the Governors.
Holidays
The hourly rate includes an element of holiday pay. Employees are expected to take their holidays within
the School’s holiday periods.
Pension
The School offers an option of defined benefit pension schemes. Staff may either join the Teachers’ Pension
Scheme whereby they can earn a pension benefit of 1/60 of final salary for each year of membership for
which the staff contribution rate starts at 6.4%. Alternatively staff can join the Independent Schools’ Pension
Scheme which has a benefit of 1/80 of final salary for each year of membership and the staff contribution
rate is currently 6%.
Confidentiality
The need for absolute confidentiality and discretion, both within the School and the wider community,
must be understood.
Dress Code
All staff are expected to set an example to pupils and should dress appropriately at all times.
Smoking
Highgate School operates a no smoking policy and smoking is not permitted on any part of the campus.
Health & Safety
The School takes its obligations under the Health & Safety at Work Act seriously and the postholder will
be required to comply with all aspects of the School’s Health & Safety policy, particularly in relation to safe
working practices. All staff must keep up to date with the School’s health and safety policies which are
regularly updated and posted on the staff intranet.
Equality and Diversity
The School is committed to being an equal opportunities employer. To enable us to make any reasonable
adjustments please let us know at application stage if you have any special requirements.
As a member of the support staff, this role is responsible to the Bursar. Job descriptions may
be updated by the Bursar from time to time to accommodate the changing needs of the
School.
For operational reasons, the School reserves the right to transfer you to alternative duties.
For this reason it is a condition of employment that you are willing to do so, if requested,
from time to time.
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APPLICATION PROCEDURE
Applications should be made to:
Lisa Cardinali, Human Resources Officer, Highgate School, North Road, Highgate,
London N6 4AY
Recruitment@highgateschool.org.uk
Applicants are required to write a separate covering letter outlining their suitability for the post, which
should be accompanied by the following:
(1) The School’s application form. (Please note that of necessity this is a PDF document and must be
completed by hand. Scanned emailed copies will be accepted);
(2) A full curriculum vitae;
(3) Copies of any qualifications and certificates mentioned in the application;
(4) Details of two referees. (Please note that references may be taken up for candidates shortlisted for
second interview);
(5) A completed Equal Opportunities Monitoring Form. Completion of the form is optional although
it will help Highgate to monitor the effectiveness of its Equal Opportunities and Diversity practices. (The
information contained within the form will be treated in the strictest confidence and is used for anonymised
reporting purposes only. It will not be disclosed to members of the selection and recruitment panel).
Closing date: Midday, Monday 10 March (but applications will be considered on receipt)
Interviews will take place on Friday 21 March
January 2014
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