Director of Music

Director of
Music
Information for prospective
members of staff

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Appointment of a Director of Music
for a September 2026 start

St Joseph’s College is seeking to appoint a Director of Music for a September
2026 start, reporting to a member of the Senior Leadership Team. The
Director of Music at St Joseph’s College will hold a pivotal leadership role
responsible for the overall development of all matters relating to music. This
is a whole College position with a clear mandate to ensure both participation
and performance in music are exceptional for all pupils.

Closing Date: 9am, Friday 17 April 2026

Early application is encouraged as we reserve the right to close the vacancy
early, once a suitable candidate is appointed.

Contents

Message from the Head

About the Department

Duties and Responsibilities

Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks

Person Specification

About the College

Our Missions and Aims

Why St Joseph’s?

Appointment Procedure

Interview Process

How To Find Us

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Message from the Head,
Mrs Laura Stotesbury

Thank you for your interest in St Joseph’s College.
I am delighted that you are considering our school
and I trust that this recruitment pack will provide
you with the information you require both about
the post and the College.

I believe that this is an exciting time to be joining St Joseph’s College. There
has been a significant growth in the pupil roll over the last few years and
the governors are continually looking to invest in the facilities. There is a real
appetite for what we have to offer as both an educational establishment and
an employer.

The College seeks to be a school which places an emphasis on providing
an all-round education: academic, pastoral, social and spiritual, where
pupils develop the attributes of commitment, collaboration, confidence,
communication and compassion through the various aspects of school life.
The College is a very happy place, and colleagues enjoy teaching here.

I hope that you will want to apply for this post. I recognise that much time
and thought goes into preparing an application and we, in turn, will give your
application serious consideration.

Mrs Laura Stotesbury
Head

Watch our video about what it is like working at St Joseph’s.

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About the Role

We are seeking to appoint a new Director of Music at St Joseph’s College. The successful candidate must uphold the College’s
strong reputation for musical excellence and also have the innovation and strategy to write the next chapter for Music at the
College. You will hold a pivotal leadership role responsible for the overall development of all matters relating to music.

This is a whole College position with a clear mandate to ensure both participation and performance in music are exceptional
for all pupils. In this role, you will be entrusted with the strategic direction of the Music Department. You will develop and
execute a comprehensive music strategy that aligns with the school’s educational goals, shaping the musical culture of the
College and promoting excellence. Your visionary leadership will drive the department’s growth and foster an environment
where musical talents are nurtured and celebrated.

Your responsibilities will also encompass curriculum development. You will oversee the design and implementation of an
inclusive and dynamic music curriculum that caters to students. Your adaptability and innovation will be essential in ensuring
that the curriculum and co-curriculum remains engaging and relevant to evolving student interests.

Leading a dedicated team of music teachers and peripatetic teachers, you will maintain high teaching and performance
standards. Collaboration is key as you work with specialists and generalists alike, ensuring a harmonious blend of expertise that
caters to the diverse musical interests and talents of our students. Student engagement lies at the heart of your role. You will
actively encourage student participation in music-related activities including choirs, orchestras, bands, and solo performances.
Your passion for music will be contagious, nurturing students’ love for the art and providing unwavering support for their
musical development.

Event planning is another significant aspect of the role. You will take charge of organising music events, concerts, and recitals
throughout the academic year. In addition you will act as a significant contributor to the spiritual life of the College such as
helping to organise Mass and hymn practices. These events will serve as platforms to showcase the talents and achievements
of our students, further enriching the cultural tapestry of St Joseph’s College. You will be comfortable speaking to large groups
of parents and guests and co-ordinate events across the academic year.

Efficient resource management will be imperative. You will oversee the Music Department budget, allocating resources for
instruments, equipment, sheet music, and other essential materials. Your careful stewardship of resources will enhance student
learning and contribute to the department’s success. Effective budgeting and astute financial management will be a key skill in
order to develop the department in a financially sustainable manner.

Furthermore, collaboration will extend beyond the Music Department as you work closely with other departments
and faculty members. This collaborative spirit will enable you to integrate music into the broader curriculum, creating
interdisciplinary learning opportunities that enrich the overall educational experience at St Joseph’s College.

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Duties and Responsibilities

Main Requirements
Three qualities are essential:

1.  You must be a first-rate teacher who has a real enthusiasm for both your subject and how it is most effectively taught

2.  You must enjoy the pastoral aspects of teaching

3.  You must strive to maintain and develop Music’s reputation as a key selling point for the College

In fulfilling the requirements of the post, the teacher should demonstrate essential professional characteristics, and in
particular will:

•

Inspire trust and confidence in pupils and colleagues

•  Build team commitment with colleagues

•  Engage and motivate pupils

•  Demonstrate analytical thinking to improve the quality of pupils’ learning

•  Contribute to the College improvement/development planning and promote the learning priorities of the College

development plan

•  Contribute to the development and/or implementation of College policies

•  Participate in the performance management process to advance pupil learning and enhance professional practice in

line with the College aspirations and priorities

•  Uphold the values and mission of St Joseph’s College and maintain them both inside and outside the classroom

•  Promote the wider aspirations and values of the College

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks

Head of Department Responsibilities

•  Advise the Head and the Leadership Team on the

aims and future direction of the department and the
resources required to implement these

•  Co-ordinate the preparation and development
of courses of study, teaching materials, teaching
programmes, methods of teaching and assessment in
order to provide a rich experience for pupils and secure
high academic standards in the department

•  Ensure that all departmental documentation is in place

and up-to-date

•  Take responsibility for the implementation of school

policies within the department

•  Monitor the work of the department and organise
departmental meetings which are focused on the
development of teaching and learning

•  Ensure that teaching and learning in the department

meets the needs of all pupils – in particular to ensure
that they are stretched and the less able supported
•  Develop the analysis of departmental assessments,

examination results and reports, MidYIS, YELLIS, ALIS
and other data

•  Monitor and evaluate standards of achievement and
the quality of teaching in the department through
lesson observation, examining pupils’ work, monitoring
teachers’ planning and assessment and other
appropriate means

•  Assist in the professional development of departmental
colleagues, giving them opportunities to develop their
skills, knowledge and understanding

•  Encourage the sharing of good practice in the
department through the appropriate use of
departmental meeting time and external INSET
courses

•  Manage the provision of information to parents/

carers and other staff about curricular choices, and
choice of teaching groups for individual pupils and
groups of pupils

•  Meet with parents about any issues concerning the

teaching of the subject

•  Oversee and monitor the accuracy of examination
entries and dates and work effectively with the
Examinations Manager.

•  Seek to ensure the effective use of the department’s
equipment, proper maintenance of the department
materials and fabric, and the observance of relevant
health and safety regulations

•  Draw up and maintain efficient and effective control

of the department’s budget

•  Contribute to the selection for appointment and
professional development of teachers and non-
teaching staff including the induction and assessment
of new and newly qualified teachers to work in the
department

•  Assist in the preparation of reports relating to the

work of the department

•  Keep up to date in subject knowledge and with

development in the subject

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks Cont.

•  Develop a relationship with feeder Preparatory Schools
and arrange visits from the department to help attract
students to the College

Staff Development
•  Ensure staff attend in-house and external professional

development opportunities

•  Line management within the department, fostering a

supportive environment for team members

•  Identify and address the training needs of the team,
taking ownership of the department’s long-term
direction and staffing

Planning and Resource Management
•  Produce an operational plan
•  Take responsibility for health and safety, efficient

administration, and oversight of non-teaching staff in the
department

•  Plan and manage the co-curricular music programme,

aligning events with the wider school calendar

•  Manage resources and finances, including a significant
budget for instruments, equipment, and staffing

Enrichment
•  Organise exciting co-curricular activities, including

performances, trips, and visits

•  Manage the music extension programme, including

auditioning and making recommendations for
prospective students

•  Ensure opportunities for pupil enrichment and

extension are available, including monitoring and
mentoring musicians

•  Identify pupils with musical potential and encourage

instrument uptake. Work closely with the Preparatory
School to develop students and groups across the
College

•  Oversee instrumental and vocal tuition programmes in
both classical and non-classical styles, taking a lead role
in those aligned to your specialism

•  To work with the College Chaplain and other relevant
staff to ensure that all musical requirements are met to
support Mass, Hymn Practice, weekly assemblies

•  To arrange and lead the biennial Music Tour
•  To work with students to enter appropriate

competitions

Partnerships
•  Collaborate with the Preparatory School and other

music providers to enhance the musical life of our pupils

•  Prepare for community and prospective events to
present College music in the best possible light
•  Work with the Marketing and Admissions teams
to promote music at the College, aiding in pupil
recruitment

•  Develop a network amongst the local community to

further enhance the College’s programme

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Areas of Responsibility and Key Tasks Cont.

General Requirements

•  To support the Catholic ethos of the school
•  To promote the school vision
•  To support and implement relevant aspects of school
improvement as shaped by SLT’s operational planning
•  To develop, implement and monitor school policies with
a commitment to high standards, high expectations and
high achievement

•  To be aware of current educational developments and
the conclusions of educational research as they may be
relevant to practices and policies within the school
•  To be aware of all Health & Safety issues relevant to the

department

•  To attend and contribute to middle management

meetings

•  To attend relevant external meetings
•  To attend SLT and Governors’ meetings when requested
•  To ensure consultation with other departments on cross

curricular themes and needs

•  To have a high profile around the school by regularly
patrolling stairs and corridors and visiting classrooms,
upholding behaviour, and standards at all times

•  Promote and support school events
•  To always carry out his/her responsibilities with

due regard to the College’s policy, organisation and
arrangements for Health & Safety at Work, EDI,
safeguarding, and other relevant areas

•  St Joseph’s College is committed to safeguarding and

promoting the welfare of children and young people and
expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment

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Person Specification

Criteria

Essential

Qualifications  Good honours degree in Music or equivalent

Evidence of ongoing CPD

Desirable

Qualified Teacher Status

Experience

Experience of teaching KS3 – KS5 Music

Experience of working with choirs

Experience of teaching pupils with SEND

Experience of leading music tours or general school trips

Understanding of the importance of safeguarding

Experience with digital learning approaches (e.g. OneNote)

Experience of successful collaboration within a school particularly with drama

Experience of leading a range of musical co-curricular activities, including musical productions

Experience of leading singing sessions

Excellent musicianship

Experience with curriculum planning, such as schemes of work and assessment

Knowledge and
understanding

Sound subject knowledge up to A level

An understanding of up-to-date teaching methods and learning technologies

An understanding of using data to track pupil progress

An understanding of the links necessary within school and all its stakeholders

An understanding of what makes effective teaching

An understanding of the importance of assessment for learning

Knowledge of music technology and experience with including it as part of a
modern, balanced music curriculum

Understanding the specifics around the importance of music within a
Catholic school

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Person Specification Cont.

Criteria

Essential

Desirable

Skills

A deep passion for music and the ability to inspire pupils and colleagues

Strong keyboard and accompanying skills

Establish and develop effective working relationships

Ability to demonstrate effective liaison with parents and other stakeholders

Use effective strategies to monitor pupil motivation, behaviour and morale

Communicate effectively, orally and in writing, to a variety of audiences

Lead the extension programme to stretch and challenge more able musicians

Demonstrate sound IT competencies

Personal
Characteristics

Motivated to work with children and have a high regard for their happiness,
safety and wellbeing

High initiative, drive and energy

A commitment to the co-curricular and wider life of the College

A team player, able to motivate and collaborate effectively with colleagues

Excellent organisational skills

An enthusiastic, empathetic and approachable manner

A commitment to reflective practice

Ability to work flexibly: self-evaluative adapting to changing circumstances and new ideas

Able to promote the image of the College through an articulate and confident approach

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About the College

St Joseph’s College is the leading independent day school for boys and girls aged 3 to 18 in Berkshire. It is fully
co-educational and consists of the Senior School (ages 11 to 18) and the Prep School (ages 3 to 11). The Senior School
and Prep School are located within a single campus.

Awards
The College has won several awards over the last few years including TES Independent School of the Year, Outstanding
Progress at the Education Business Awards and Outstanding Leadership Team at the Leadership Awards.

Ethos
St Joseph’s is a Catholic school welcoming pupils of every faith or no faith. Pupils are educated in an atmosphere where
Christian values and standards are recognised and established. The size of our classes means everyone receives the
individual guidance and support they need to achieve their potential. Staff, pupils and parents form strong links, with a
focus on both the academic progress and the well-being of each pupil.  We encourage all pupils to develop an awareness
of their own role in society.

Points of Entry
The main points of entry to the school are at age 3, 11, 13 and 16. Entry into the Senior School is by formal assessment,
and around 60% of applicants to the Senior School are from maintained primary schools.

Leavers’ Destinations
The majority of Sixth Form leavers go on to their choice of university to study a diverse range of subjects. Examination
results are strong and improving year-on-year, however our focus is very much on producing young adults who also have
skills for life such as confidence, social skills and a good understanding of the world around them.

Recent Developments
During the past six years the Governors have taken a number of measures to develop the College. In addition to
becoming co-educational these include an emphasis on marketing and a substantial investment in facilities, buildings and
staff. Consistently rising pupil numbers provide momentum for growth and the confidence to make further investment.

The Future
Looking to the future, St Joseph’s will continue its ambitious plans to enhance and develop the College. However, we will
ensure that as we grow, our caring ethos remains at the heart of the College. The warm and friendly nature, together
with the way pupils display concern and respect for one another, are often commented upon by visitors and parents. We
are proud of this and it is one of the most rewarding aspects of working here.

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At St Joseph’s, our mission is to encourage, inspire, challenge and support pupils to fulfill their potential in a community founded on Catholic Christian values.

We aim to develop life skills of compassion, commitment, collaboration, confidence and communication in each pupil, throughout each of their years at the school.

Our Mission and Aims

The College’s ISI inspection took place in November 2025

The recent inspection by the Independent Schools Inspectorate provided a positive evaluation of provision
across all areas of school life. The report highlights strong academic outcomes, high-quality pastoral support
and a rich co-curricular offer. Inspectors noted that the ethos and values of St Joseph’s College are clearly
reflected in pupils’ daily experiences, fostering an environment built on inclusivity, respect and compassion.

The report recognises the commitment of staff across the College, whose work enables pupils to thrive
both within and beyond the classroom. Their dedication supports pupils’ personal development, academic
progress  and  engagement  with  the  wider  life  of  the  school.  The  contribution  of  Governors  is  also
acknowledged, particularly in providing consistent oversight and strategic guidance.

Inspectors  noted  the  positive  involvement  of  parents  and  pupils,  whose  views  contributed  meaningfully
to the overall findings. Feedback shared during the inspection reflected strong levels of confidence in the
school’s direction, culture and support systems.

As part of their process, the inspection team outlined recommended areas for continued improvement.
These include developing a comprehensive digital strategy and further enhancing the use of data to inform
classroom planning. Both priorities are already incorporated into the College’s Vision 2030 strategic plan,
ensuring they are actively being progressed.

Overall, the inspection report presents an encouraging and accurate reflection of the work undertaken
at St Joseph’s College to support every pupil in achieving their best. Consistently high outcomes at GCSE
and A level, alongside strong university offer rates, further demonstrate the effectiveness of the school’s
approach to teaching, learning and holistic development.

ALL AREAS WERE ‘MET’

The Independent Schools Inspectorate is appointed by the Department of Education to
inspect independent schools in England. The inspectors report on the extent to which the
statutory Independent School Standards and other applicable regulatory requirements
are met, collectively referred to in this reports as ‘the Standards’.

Schools are expected to meet the robust standards in each of the sections listed below:

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

S E C T I O N

1

2

3

4

Leadership and
Management, and
Governance

Quality of
Education, Training
and Recreation

Pupils’ Physical
and Mental Health
and Emotional
Wellbeing

Pupils’ Social and
Economic Education
and Contribution
to Society

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Safeguarding

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

ALL STANDARDS
‘MET’

St Joseph’s ISI inspection in November 2025 found that all standards in all
areas were ‘met’.

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Why St Joseph’s?

Education for boys and girls from age 3 to 18

At St Joseph’s we offer:
•  A safe and happy environment in which academic and social skills are developed
•
•  A varied curriculum and excellent facilities
•  A strong sense of community
•  High academic reputation
•  Wide range of extra-curricular activities including a strong tradition of music and drama

St Joseph’s is staffed by teachers who combine the best in traditional educational values with a sharp awareness of what is
appropriate for pupils who need to be prepared for the twenty-first century. Our pupils are encouraged to be confident,
questioning, independent learners, whilst at the same time developing a moral and spiritual sense of purpose in their lives
and in their studies.

Salary
The College has its own salary scales, with starting salaries dependent on the experience and qualifications of the
successful candidates. Salary scales are reviewed annually by the Governors, to ensure they remain competitive. Annual
salary is paid by bank transfer on the last working day of each month, in 12 equal monthly instalments.

Non-contractual benefits

School fee reduction
Staff at St Joseph’s College (who are not employed on casual contracts) are eligible for a staff discount on basic tuition
fees of 50% for full-time staff, pro rata for part-time staff, subject to their child(ren) meeting the entrance requirements.

Childcare vouchers
St Joseph’s participates in the government’s salary sacrifice childcare voucher scheme or government tax-free childcare
scheme.

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Staff Room
There is a professional, friendly and supportive Staff Room,
together with departmental workspaces throughout the school.

The above non-contractual benefits are currently available to
staff. They are at the discretion of the Governors who reserve
the right to withdraw them without notice.

Pension
The College pays its teachers a total remuneration package
which provides teachers with flexibility in determining the level
of contributions paid into their pension. This provides staff with
the option to increase their take home salary by reducing their
total pension contribution (employer and employee) or vice
versa.

All teachers are automatically enrolled into the College defined
contribution pension scheme – the Aviva Pension Trust for
Independent Schools (APTIS).

The pension scheme includes:
• Employer contributions matched to Employee contributions.
The limiting factors are simply the individuals’ salary and
statutory limits. Contributions can be varied annually by staff to
meet changing circumstances as required.
• An Employee Assistance Programme provided by Care First.

Further literature on the APTIS scheme, together with
examples about how the level of pension contribution can be
varied, is available from the Bursar.

Drinks and snacks
Tea, coffee and biscuits are available to all staff at break time,
and there is access to hot drinks throughout the day. Snacks
and light meals are provided to staff when working later in the
evening for school events.

Lunch
A duty meal may be obtained from the Dining Hall.

Laptop
Teaching staff are loaned a school laptop to assist with their
teaching and administration, and docking stations are available
throughout the school.

Use of a private vehicle
Subject to a journey being approved by the Bursar or Head,
staff can use their private vehicle for school journeys during
working hours. The insurance will be under the school’s
insurance and staff can claim for mileage.

Car parking
All staff may park in the school car park, subject to the
availability of a space. A valid school parking permit must be
displayed clearly on the windscreen of any car parked onsite.

Counselling
Staff have access to a 24 hour telephone counselling helpline.
In addition, the lay chaplain or visiting school counsellor may be
able to see staff.

Legal advice
Staff have access to a 24 hour legal information telephone
helpline, covering issues such as consumer rights, debt, tax and
personal injury.

Healthcare helpline
A telephone based healthcare support service is available to all
staff at no cost.

Swimming pool
Staff are permitted to use the school swimming pool during
designated staff swimming sessions.

CPD and training
Professional development is nurtured and encouraged. The school
has a full annual INSET programme and staff have access to
the National College Platform. There is strong support for new
teaching staff. Early Career Teachers can undertake their accredited
ECT years through the Independent Schools Teacher Induction
Panel and a number of members of staff have completed teaching
qualifications whilst employed at St Joseph’s.

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Appointment Procedure

•  Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the College

Application Form in full, accompanied by a covering letter.

•  The covering letter should illustrate specifically why you think you should be

considered for this role, giving clear evidence of how your skills and experience
meet the requirements of the role. You should give clear examples, and relate
these to the job description and person specification.

•  These should be emailed to recruitment@sjcr.org.uk or alternatively sent by post
to Mrs Guest, HR & Recruitment Officer, St Joseph’s College, Upper Redlands
Road, Reading, Berkshire RG1 5JT. Electronic application is encouraged and
preferred.

•  Closing Date: 9am, Friday 17 April 2026. Applications will be reviewed
upon receipt and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early, so early
application is encouraged.

•  All offers of employment are subject to the receipt of two satisfactory

references, one of which must be from your current or most recent employer.
For shortlisted applicants for teaching posts, references may be taken up prior to
interview.

•  St Joseph’s College employs personnel who are best qualified for the post

without discrimination in respect of age, disability, race, gender or native origin.
•  The College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment.

•  Successful applicants must undergo child protection screening, including checks

with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service.

•  A copy of the College Recruitment, Selection and Disclosures Policy and
Procedures can be found on the College website: https://www.sjcr.org.uk/
vacancies/

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Interview Process

•  All candidates invited to interview must bring documents confirming any educational and professional qualifications that are necessary or relevant for the post (e.g. the original or

certified copy of certificates, diplomas etc). Where originals or certified copies are not available for the successful candidate, written confirmation of the relevant qualifications must
be obtained by the candidate from the awarding body.

•  During your visit you should expect to attend a number of interviews with different members of staff. We will also assess your suitability to work with children.

•  You will also be required to teach a lesson which will be observed. You will be provided with a brief for the lesson beforehand.

•  In addition to formal interviews there will also be an opportunity for shortlisted candidates to tour the College and to meet prospective colleagues.

•  The College requests that all candidates invited to interview also bring with them:

•  A current driving licence including a photograph, a passport and a birth certificate
•  A utility bill or financial statement issued within the last three months showing the candidate’s current name and address
•  Where appropriate any documentation evidencing a change of name
•  Proof of entitlement to work and reside in the UK

Please note that originals of the above are necessary. Photocopies or certified copies are not sufficient.

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How to find us

•  St Joseph’s College is situated in central Reading, near the University
and the Royal Berkshire Hospital. It is close to the M4 (Junction 11)
and has excellent transport links.

•  If travelling by train, the school is approximately 20 minutes’ walk
from Reading Station, or alternatively there are a number of local
buses that stop close by.

•  To accurately locate the College entrance at 64 Upper Redlands

Road on some GPS satellite navigation systems it may be necessary
to use the postcode RG1 5JP.

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