Head of Senior School Music
Salary Range: Up to $122,095 + super + $10,000 leadership allowance
Type of School: Independent P–12 School in Regional Victoria
Contract Type: Full-time, with leadership time allocation - 3 year tenure
Start: Term 1, 2025
About the School
HARKE has partnered with a highly regarded independent school in North Central Victoria, around two hours from Melbourne. Known for academic excellence, capped class sizes, and a culture that balances tradition and innovation, the school supports over 1,100 students with enrolments capped at many year levels. Staff benefit from strong leadership, outstanding resources, and meaningful opportunities for development.
Music is a key pillar of the school's identity, with one of the most dynamic and respected music programs in the region. Students are offered diverse pathways to develop musically – from structured classroom learning to performance, ensemble participation, and external competitions.
From 2026, teachers in pastoral leadership positions will benefit from a 0.1 FTE allocation built into their load. The school also offers a 30% discount on school fees for staff children and encourages participation in the school's co-curricular life, which sits outside of standard classroom hours.
About the Position
This is a full-time leadership position with responsibility for Senior School Music, including curriculum delivery, performance oversight, and leadership of co-curricular ensembles. The role carries a $10,000 leadership allowance and 8 periods (8 hours) of time release per fortnight, reflecting its strategic importance within the Arts Faculty.
The successful candidate will join a collaborative team and report to the Head of Faculty – Arts, working closely with other music staff and a team of 12 instrumental instructors. They will play a central role in shaping the school's music program, overseeing two major productions annually, and mentoring both students and staff.
The Music Program
Core classroom music through to Year 8
Specialised electives from Years 9–12, including VET pathways
Senior School courses combining performance, theory, and music tech
Instrumental and Vocal Tuition
Individual and group tuition across a wide range of instruments
Extension programs and masterclasses for advanced students
Performance and Ensemble Program
Over 20 ensembles including:
Percussion Ensemble, Chamber Ensembles, Vocal Stage Craft
Junior groups: Super Strings, Junior Concert Band, Bell Choir
Students regularly perform in:
Competitions and eisteddfods
Recitals, concerts, and annual productions
School events and community engagements
Skills and Responsibilities
Deliver engaging and high-quality classroom music to senior students
Lead key performances, ensembles, and major music events
Collaborate with Arts Faculty and instrumental tutors
Mentor and inspire student musicians across the school
Contribute to co-curricular and pastoral care programs
Requirements
Registration: Candidates must hold or be eligible to obtain Victorian Institute of Teaching (VIT) registration
Work Rights: Full working rights in Australia are essential for this role
Safeguarding: Applicants must provide two current referees and complete HARKE's onboarding process to meet safeguarding requirements
HARKE Recruitment
Working with HARKE Recruitment offers several key advantages:
Streamlined recruitment process for a hassle-free experience
Time-saving methods to accelerate your job search
Direct contact with hiring managers and school leaders for clear and fast communication
Comprehensive interview preparation support and any other support you require
Opportunities for professional development within the education sector
How to Apply
To apply for this role, click 'APPLY' or for a confidential discussion, please contact Paige on 0492 989 093. Visit our company website for more information.
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