Subject Leader of Performing Arts (Music Specialist)

Chatham Grammar, Chatham, Kent, ME5 7EH

8 days remaining to apply

• Start date details

  ASAP

• Closing date

  20 March 2026 at 12pm (midday)

• Date listed

  11 March 2026

Job details

• Job role:
  • Head of department or curriculum
• Visa sponsorship: Visas cannot be sponsored
• Working pattern: Full time
• Contract type: Permanent
• Full-time equivalent salary: £32,916.00 - £51,055.00 Annually (Actual) (TRP £3,527)

Subject Leader of Performing Arts (Music Specialist) job summary

Subject Leader of Performing Arts (Music Specialist)

Salary: £32,916 - £51,055 (TRP £3,527)

Contract: Permanent - Full - Time

The University of Kent Academies Trust is seeking to recruit a Subject Leader of Performing Arts (Music Specialist) to join our community. This is a full-time, permanent position with the start date to be agreed for an early appointment.

The successful applicant will be an experienced and qualified teacher with the charisma, vision and leadership skills to drive the Performing Arts department forward. The Subject Leader of Performing Arts will lead the development of Music within the curriculum at Chatham Grammar, while also overseeing the wider Performing Arts provision, including drama and performance opportunities across the school.

The successful candidate will be proficient in at least one musical instrument and will have experience of delivering high-quality classroom teaching alongside a vibrant enrichment programme. This may include activities such as bands, orchestras, choirs, school productions or other performing arts clubs that engage and inspire students.

Music and Performing Arts is currently a small but developing area at Chatham Grammar, and while we already provide a range of performance and participation opportunities, we are seeking a dynamic leader who can take the department to the next level. The successful candidate will bring innovative ideas and proven strategies to further strengthen the curriculum and expand extracurricular opportunities, including leading the whole school production and choir to perform at celebratory events.

Our new colleague will have experience of leading or managing a team, with the ability to motivate, inspire and support colleagues to achieve continued success. They will be passionate about ensuring that all students have access to high-quality performing arts experiences and opportunities to develop their creativity and confidence.

Chatham Grammar (CG) is a selective girls’ academy for students aged 11-19, with a mixed sixth form, sponsored by the University of Kent. From September 2026, CG will begin its transition to a fully coeducational academy by welcoming boys into Year 7. Driven by ambition, CG is committed to inspiring every student to achieve their full potential. As part of the University of Kent Academies Trust, students enjoy unique opportunities with the University, including mentoring from student ambassadors, campus visits, tailored curriculum programmes, international links, and a wide range of enrichment activities that support both academic and personal development.

Benefits of Working for UKAT

At UKAT we are committed to supporting the well-being, development, and professional fulfilment of all our staff.

Professional and Workplace: Apple technology and equipment*, comfortable workspaces, competitive salary with generous pension, relocation support, employee referral scheme, and access to Trust-wide professional development and leadership pathways

Financial Wellbeing: Retirement planning, budget support, and interest-free loans

Health and Lifestyle: On-site gym, free Benenden Health cover, yoga, cycle-to-work, and eyecare schemes

Mental Health and Emotional Support: Free counselling, mindfulness courses, hypnotherapy, talking therapies, and on-site Mental Health First Aid

Community and Social: Staff groups, clubs, and Trust-wide events that foster a strong sense of community the successful candidate will be a motivated, dynamic, and inspiring leader who is committed to ensuring that all students have access to a high-quality and enriching performing arts education.

How to Apply

Your application should be completed after reading the job description and person specification. Please use the application form to demonstrate how your skills and experience meet the requirements of the role, and why you believe you are a strong candidate. We are committed to attracting top talent to our inclusive Trust and welcome applications from all members of the community, regardless of race, religion, ethnicity, disability, gender reassignment, age, or sexual orientation.

Please note that CVs will not be accepted.

Closing Date - Friday 20th March 2026

Interviews will be scheduled the following week, or earlier if a suitable candidate applies.

Early applications are strongly encouraged.

The University of Kent Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.  Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).  In addition, the Trust will carry out an online search, once, as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.  This is intended to help us identify any incidents or issues that have happened and are publicly available online.  The selection panel will then explore such items with the candidate during interview.  The Trust’s HR Team or another member of staff trained in safer recruitment, will use Google.com to conduct each search and no adverse judgement will be formed for applicants with limited or online footprint.

Further information about the job

The candidate will be required to undergo a full enhanced DBS check and must be eligible to work in the UK.

Visas cannot be sponsored.

If you're interested in teaching or training to teach in England as an international citizen, we can help you understand your next steps.

Commitment to safeguarding

The University of Kent Academies Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service
(DBS).

In addition, the Trust will carry out an online search, once, as part of our due diligence on shortlisted candidates.

Applying for the job

This school accepts applications through their own website, where you may also find more information about this job.

CVs will not be accepted for this application.

About Chatham Grammar

• School type: Academy, ages 11 to 18
• Education phase: Secondary school
• School size: 950 pupils enrolled
• Age range: 11 to 18
• Ofsted report: View Ofsted report
• School website: Chatham Grammar website
• See more jobs: teaching-vacancies.service.gov.uk/organisations/chatham-grammar

Chatham Grammar (CG) is a selective 11 – 19 girls academy (with a mixed sixth form) whose Lead Sponsor is the University of Kent. Chatham Grammar is part of the established University of Kent Academies Trust (UKAT).

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