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Location: Watford, Hertfordshire
Start Date: September 2026
Nature: Full-Time / Permanent
Lead and inspire creativity, performance, and artistic excellence within a supportive and ambitious learning environment.
A welcoming and forward-thinking secondary school in Watford is seeking a passionate and experienced Head of Performing Arts to lead its successful Music and Drama provision. This is an exciting opportunity for an ambitious educator to shape and develop a thriving department that values creativity, performance, inclusion, and student-centred learning.
About the Role
The Head of Performing Arts will lead the delivery of an engaging and ambitious curriculum across Music and Drama at Key Stages 3 and 4 (KS5 desirable). The successful candidate will inspire students through high-quality teaching, exciting performance opportunities, and a strong commitment to artistic development.
Working closely with senior leaders and the wider Performing Arts team, you will oversee curriculum development, departmental improvement, extracurricular provision, and whole-school enrichment initiatives, ensuring students achieve both academically and creatively.
Key Responsibilities
* Lead and manage the Performing Arts department, including Music and Drama
* Plan and deliver high-quality lessons that engage, challenge, and inspire students
* Teach Music and/or Drama across KS3–KS4 (KS5 desirable)
* Develop a broad, creative, and inclusive Performing Arts curriculum
* Prepare students effectively for GCSE and examination performance requirements
* Monitor student progress and use assessment data to raise attainment
* Differentiate learning to support SEND, EAL, and high-attaining pupils
* Maintain high expectations for behaviour, participation, and achievement
* Lead departmental planning, moderation, and quality assurance processes
* Organise and oversee extracurricular activities including productions, concerts, showcases, theatre trips, and enrichment events
* Support and develop colleagues within the department through effective leadership and collaboration
* Communicate effectively with parents, carers, and external organisations
* Uphold safeguarding, equality, and school policies at all times
The Ideal Candidate
* Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent
* Experience teaching Music and/or Drama within a secondary school setting
* Previous leadership or departmental responsibility experience desirable
* Strong subject knowledge and passion for Performing Arts education
* Excellent classroom management and behaviour strategies
* Ability to motivate, challenge, and inspire learners of all abilities
* Skilled in curriculum planning, assessment, and departmental development
* Strong organisational, communication, and leadership skills
* Committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children
* Legal right to work in the UK
About the School in Watford
The school in Watford is proud of its inclusive and supportive ethos, with a strong focus on academic achievement, creativity, and personal development. Staff collaborate effectively to create a positive learning culture where students are encouraged to express themselves confidently and achieve their full potential.
The Performing Arts department is well-resourced and highly valued within the school community, offering students a wide range of opportunities to participate in productions, performances, concerts, and creative projects that promote confidence, teamwork, and artistic excellence.
Apply
If you are a passionate and committed Performing Arts leader looking to inspire young people and contribute to a thriving school community in Watford, we welcome your application and CV.