We are seeking an inspiring Director of Music to lead Music across the whole school from August 2027.

We want music to be at the heart of school life, from the classroom to the concert stage. We are looking for a musician and leader who can build a vibrant programme of curriculum, ensembles and performance in which every student can take part and our most able musicians flourish. You will set high expectations with warmth, helping each student find their own musical voice and the confidence to share it.

Founded in 2020, Harrow International School Shenzhen Qianhai is a young school with a clear sense of purpose. This is an exciting time to join us: you will help shape a growing school while drawing on the traditions of Harrow School, London, and the values of Courage, Honour, Humility and Fellowship.

You will join a warm, collegiate team in which the fellowship of colleagues really matters. Our staff are reflective practitioners who are willing to try new ideas, learn from one another and contribute fully to the life of the school. We value professional trust, open dialogue and a shared commitment to helping every member of staff grow, with established career pathways across the Harrow family of schools.

We welcome applications from teachers in UK state and independent schools, as well as from those already working internationally.

The role

Reporting to the Deputy Head (Whole School), the Director of Music will lead Music from Early Years to the Sixth Form, including IGCSE and A Level. You will lead and develop the department team, shape a broad and ambitious curriculum, and lead whole-school concerts, ensembles and the instrumental programme.

Successful candidates will demonstrate

• Bachelor’s degree in Music or related field (minimum requirement)

• A recognised teaching qualification (UK PGCE or equivalent giving QTS)

• At least 5 years’ teaching experience, including at least 2 years leading a subject or department with a proven record of raising standards and developing staff

• At least 2 years’ experience of teaching Music at IGCSE/GCSE and A Level

• Confidence in using assessment data to track progress, set ambitious targets and raise achievement across the department

• Working knowledge of the National Curriculum of England for Music, from EYFS through KS1, KS2 and KS3 to IGCSE/GCSE and A Level

• Proven ability to lead, manage and develop a team effectively across the whole school

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build effective relationships with students, parents and colleagues

• Experience in organising performances, ensembles, concerts, and extracurricular activities related to music

• Ability to inspire creativity and foster musical talent among students at different skill levels

• Experience of teaching students for whom English is an additional language, adapting teaching so that every student can access and enjoy the subject

• A genuine commitment to co-curricular life, with recent experience of leading or contributing to activities beyond the classroom

• Professionalism, integrity and genuine care for the wellbeing of every child, with respect for all members of our school community

• A reflective, positive and solution-focused approach, with a willingness to try new ideas for the benefit of students

Values and Attitudes

• Commitment to promoting inclusivity and diversity within the department

• Passionate about nurturing each student’s individual potential through music education

• Collaborative approach working closely with other departments to enrich cross-curricular learning

• Dedication to continuous professional development for self and team members

• Positive attitude towards innovation in teaching methods using technology where appropriate

If you are enthusiastic about shaping the whole-school music experience in an international environment dedicated to excellence, please apply now. Join us at Harrow International School Shenzhen Qianhai where your leadership can make a lasting impact on young musicians’ lives.

About Harrow International School Shenzhen Qianhai

Opened in September 2020, Harrow International School Shenzhen Qianhai is a British international day and boarding school for students from Early Years to the Sixth Form. Located in the Qianhai Co-operation Zone, our purpose-built campus is designed for over 800 students and draws on the 450-year heritage of Harrow School, London, guided by the values of Courage, Honour, Humility and Fellowship.

Our education

We follow the English National Curriculum, leading to IGCSE and A Level, alongside a strong Chinese language and culture programme. Our vision, Educational Excellence for Life and Leadership, is brought to life through the House system and boarding. We aim to ensure every student is known, nurtured and encouraged to turn their abilities into achievements.

The Harrow family

As part of the AISL Harrow family of schools across Asia, our staff benefit from established professional development links and career pathways, inter-school collaboration and competitions, and travel awards to visit Harrow School in London.

Living in Shenzhen

Shenzhen is China's youngest first-tier city, with an average age under thirty, the best air quality of China's first-tier cities, and a thriving technology sector that is home to companies such as Tencent, Huawei and DJI. Hong Kong, Guangzhou and Macao are all within easy reach, making it an exciting base for living and travelling in the region.

How to apply

Please click the ‘Apply’ button on this TES advert, or apply via the Harrow International School Recruitment Portal.

Please read the attached Job Description before applying.

The closing date is midnight on 30 December 2026, China Standard Time (GMT+8).

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis. We reserve the right to interview and appoint before the closing date, so early applications are encouraged.