Head of Performing Arts

Department: Performing Arts

Reporting to: Vice Principal / Head of Secondary

Location: Ambassador International Academy – Mankhool

Contract Type: Full-Time

Role Purpose

The Head of Performing Arts will provide strategic and academic leadership for Performing Arts across Ambassador International Academy – Mankhool, developing a vibrant and inclusive programme encompassing Music, Drama and performance.

The postholder will combine excellent classroom practice with strong leadership, ensuring high-quality teaching and learning while creating opportunities for students to develop their creativity, confidence, collaboration and performance skills.

A key aspect of the role will be building the Performing Arts provision as the school grows, establishing a strong culture of participation and developing performances, productions and events that contribute to the wider life of the school.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership & Development

• Provide clear leadership and direction for Performing Arts across the school.

• Develop and implement a vision for Music, Drama and performance aligned with the school's educational philosophy and strategic priorities.

• Lead the continued development of the Performing Arts curriculum as the school grows.

• Promote Performing Arts as an integral part of school life and student development.

• Work collaboratively with school leadership, teachers and other departments to identify opportunities for cross-curricular learning and whole-school initiatives.

• Support and contribute to school improvement planning relating to Performing Arts.

Teaching & Learning

• Deliver engaging and high-quality Performing Arts lessons, with a particular teaching specialism in Music and/or Drama.

• Ensure appropriate curriculum planning, progression and assessment across relevant year groups.

• Monitor student progress and use assessment information to inform teaching and curriculum development.

• Ensure lessons are appropriately differentiated to meet the needs of students with varying levels of experience and ability.

• Model excellent classroom practice and promote high expectations for student achievement, participation and behaviour.

• Keep up to date with developments and best practice within Performing Arts education.

Performances & Enrichment

• Plan and lead a varied programme of concerts, productions, showcases, assemblies and other performance opportunities throughout the academic year.

• Coordinate whole-school productions and Performing Arts events from planning through to delivery.

• Develop extracurricular opportunities such as choirs, ensembles, bands, drama clubs and performance groups.

• Encourage broad student participation in Performing Arts activities, including students who may not traditionally participate in performance.

• Identify and support students demonstrating particular talent or interest in Music, Drama or performance.

• Explore opportunities for students to participate in external performances, competitions, festivals and community events.

• Collaborate with Marketing and school leadership to showcase Performing Arts activities and student achievements.

Department Management

• Lead, support and collaborate with Performing Arts teachers, peripatetic teachers and external providers where applicable.

• Coordinate departmental planning, resources, equipment and facilities.

• Manage the Performing Arts budget responsibly and identify resource requirements as the programme develops.

• Ensure musical instruments, technical equipment, costumes, performance spaces and other departmental resources are appropriately maintained and managed.

• Contribute to recruitment, induction and professional development within the department where required.

• Establish effective departmental procedures and maintain appropriate records.

Student Experience & Wellbeing

• Create an inclusive environment where students feel confident to express themselves creatively and take appropriate artistic risks.

• Promote teamwork, discipline, resilience and confidence through rehearsal and performance.

• Ensure appropriate safeguarding, health and safety and risk-management procedures are followed during lessons, rehearsals, productions and events.

• Build positive relationships with students and encourage their involvement in shaping the school's Performing Arts programme.

Whole-School Responsibilities

• Actively contribute to the wider academic and pastoral life of the school.

• Participate in assemblies, school events, parent meetings, professional development and other school activities as required.

• Work collaboratively with colleagues across Early Years, Primary and Secondary where appropriate.

• Support major school celebrations and community events through performances and student involvement.

• Maintain positive and professional relationships with students, parents, colleagues and external partners.

• Uphold the school's policies, values and expectations at all times.

Person Specification

Essential

• Bachelor's degree in Music, Performing Arts, Drama, Education or a related discipline.

• Recognised teaching qualification.

• Demonstrated experience teaching Performing Arts, Music and/or Drama within a school environment.

• Strong understanding of curriculum planning, assessment and student progression.

• Experience organising performances, concerts, productions or similar school events.

• Strong leadership, organisation and communication skills.

• Ability to motivate students and develop participation in Performing Arts.

• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a diverse international school community.

Desirable

• Previous experience as a Head of Department, Subject Leader or Performing Arts Coordinator.

• Experience leading Performing Arts across multiple year groups or phases.

• Experience within an IB or international school environment.

• Experience directing large-scale school productions, concerts or showcases.

• Ability to play and/or teach one or more musical instruments.

• Experience managing peripatetic music programmes or external Performing Arts providers.

• Knowledge of sound, lighting, staging or other technical aspects of live performance.

Safeguarding

Ambassador International Academy – Mankhool is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate will be subject to appropriate background checks, reference checks and safeguarding requirements in accordance with school policy and applicable regulatory requirements.