Music Teacher (Prep School)
Part time, term time, fixed term
(maternity cover)
Starting November 2026
Headington Rye Oxford Prep School is a vibrant and welcoming school set in 12 acres of playing fields and grounds. In an environment where individuals come first, Headington Rye Oxford is renowned for its commitment to academic excellence, pastoral support and an impressive range of extra-curricular opportunities.
Executive Summary
We are seeking an experienced and enthusiastic part time music teacher with the ability to demonstrate excellent classroom practice. The successful applicant will join a dedicated and dynamic team and work alongside the Head of Music. He/She will have a love of teaching music, a genuine commitment to the needs of the pupils and take a full and active part in the life of the School.
Music at Headington Rye Oxford Prep School
The Music Department has two large classrooms and a plethora of music practice rooms. The Department has over 20 visiting music teachers each week and music is placed at the heart of the school. There are many opportunities for children to perform in concerts each year, both during and after school. You will be able to offer your own club choice, or continue with Key Stage 1 choir.
Role Description
This is a part-time, fixed term (maternity cover) position starting November 2026. The appointee will teach classroom Music to EYFS, Key Stage 1 and Year 3.
Key responsibilities
- assist with class music teaching throughout the School, implementing the School’s musical plan imaginatively
- plan lessons that engage and motivate pupils to learn effectively, meeting individual pupil needs
- encourage interest and skills in performing and musical literacy throughout the School
- organise and run a range of musical enrichment activities, including choirs and clubs
- assist and liaise with the chaplain and Head of Music when preparing the pupils for their contributions to main events eg Foundation Day and Christmas assemblies
- support school drama productions, liaising with staff and assisting at rehearsals
- assist with instrumental and choral concerts
- accompany pupils, as required, eg. for concerts (piano or guitar)
- attend parents’ evenings and write reports on the children’s progress
- attend staff meetings and inset days
- take part in staff professional development
- work towards the development and aims of the School
- follow the School’s safeguarding policy, attend relevant training and to read updates
Person Specification
Qualifications and Experience
Essential
- a good honours degree relevant to the teaching aspects of the role
- good pianistic or guitar skills to accompany singing and children in concerts
- experienced musician/teacher of primary aged children
Desirable
- a recognised teaching qualification
- experience of the Kodaly method of teaching
- experience in organising school performances, assemblies and musical activities
Personal Attributes and Skills
- ability to enthuse and inspire children in their musical education
- excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- energy, enthusiasm, a positive manner and sense of humour
- good initiative, can work effectively in a very busy school environment
- adaptable and show good judgement
- an exceptional classroom practitioner
- sympathy with the values and ethos of the School
Terms of Appointment
Type of Contract
Part-time (two days per week), fixed term (maternity cover) starting November 2026
Benefits
Pension
The School will comply with its legal obligations in relation to the provision of access to a pension scheme.
Fee remission
In accordance with the School’s policy, which may be subject to change from time to time, up to 50 per cent fee remission for pupils attending Headington Rye Oxford and up to 20 per cent fee remission for students attending Magdalen College School (under a reciprocal agreement) and subject to the terms of their policy. Fee remission is calculated on the number of weeks and hours worked and is pro rata for part-time staff who work at least 50 per cent of a normal working week.
The remuneration package
Headington Rye Oxford offers an enhanced teaching scale with points that equate to teaching experience and a leadership scale for responsibility. The salary offered will reflect the experience of the successful candidate and be commensurate with the post.
Additional Benefits
All staff have access to a broad programme of wellbeing activities. The programme currently includes access to the School’s gym and swimming pool, weekly Step and Tone and Zumba classes and regular staff social activities such as Book Club and Staff Choir. Staff also benefit from free access to the Employee Assistance Programme, a free, confidential helpline that offers advice on a range of issues. Free restricted parking is available for all staff on site.
Appointment Process and How To Apply
Applicants should submit an application form and a covering letter detailing their skills and experience to recruitment@headingtonschool.com
- Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the application form in full. CVs will not be accepted in substitution for completed application forms. However, they may be sent in addition to the application form.
- We will seek references on shortlisted candidates and will approach previous employers for information to verify particular experience or qualifications, before the interview. References will ask about your suitability to work with children.
- If you are invited to interview you will receive notification outlining the interview process and guidance regarding the documentation you are required to provide.
Please apply immediately
Applications are reviewed and shortlisted on a rolling basis and we reserve the right to interview, appoint and close adverts early due to the volume of applications we receive. We therefore encourage you to apply at the earliest opportunity to avoid disappointment as once we have closed a vacancy, you will be unable to submit your application form.
All appointments are subject to satisfactory completion of all employment checks, ie references, Disclosure and Barring Service, medical questionnaire, Right to Work in the UK.
Headington Rye Oxford is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks with past employers and DBS and barred lists checks. The School expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
