Position Description
Job Title Lower Strings (Cello) Music
Tutor
Commencement Immediate start
Classification School Officers Level Level 5, PP1 – PP5
Salary $101,523 pa - $109,803 pa Job Type Fixed Term - Part Time
Website www.essington.nt.edu.au Location The Essington School, Darwin
Contact Tania Johnson
Context Statement
The Essington School was established in 1989 and offers high quality childcare, preschool, early childhood,
junior and senior school programs. The school is parent-led, non-denominational and co-educational with a
reputation for innovation and high-quality learning outcomes at a national and international level.
The Essington School is committed to delivering a world class education built on a foundation of high standards
and respectful relationships. We foster a culture of excellence, underpinned by our school values and a focus
on achievement and wellbeing. In partnership with our community, we provide a comprehensive pathway
from Preschool to Year 12, ensuring our young people have every opportunity to reach their potential and
engage positively in the world beyond.
Position Objective
The Lower Strings (Cello) Music Tutor is responsible for supporting the development,
implementation and coordination of the School’s Lower Strings (Cello) Program across both the
Junior and Senior Schools.
The Lower Strings (Cello) Strings Program provides students with opportunities to participate in string
ensembles, performances and enrichment activities, catering to a wide range of musical abilities and
levels of proficiency. The program plays a significant role in the broader music culture of the school.
Key Responsibilities
* Support the planning, delivery and coordination of the school’s lower strings program
* Assist with ensemble rehearsals and facilitate effective group learning experiences
* Prepare students for performances, concerts and related events
* Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment that encourages participation, collaboration
and personal growth
* Contribute to the continued growth and excellence of the lower strings program
* Oversee lower string rehearsals, performances, and examinations
* Assist in the organisation of lower strings students and ensembles involved in performances
* Collaboratively contribute to the development, implementation, and co-ordination of the school’s
lower strings program across the Junior and Senior Schools, ensuring alignment with the broader
music curriculum
* Plan, lead, and conduct engaging ensemble rehearsals across the lower strings program, catering
to students of varying skill levels.
* Deliver individual (1:1) tuition tailored to student ability, fostering technical development, musical
growth, and a passion for performance
* Lead the selection, preparation, and interpretation of repertoire for ensembles in consultation
with Music Faculty, ensuring students are well-prepared for performances at assemblies,
concerts, competitions, and community events
* Prepare students for AMEB examinations, SACE performance assessments, and other external
evaluations, supporting their development towards musical excellence
* Collaborate effectively with classroom music teachers and other instrumental tutors to ensure
consistency in teaching approaches and to support the holistic development of students
* Maintain accurate lesson records, student progress documentation, and prepare performance
reports and assessment summaries within set timelines
* Support and participate in music tours, music camps, musicals, school productions, and other co-
curricular and enrichment activities as required
* Attend faculty meetings and contribute to department planning and discussions regarding the
future growth and direction of the lower strings program
* Oversee and assist in the care, maintenance, and organisation of cello instruments and other
resources used within the music programs, ensuring all equipment is functional and accessible
Selection Criteria
Essential
1. Proven experience teaching lower string instruments to students across a range of ages and skill
levels, from junior school beginners through to secondary school students at advanced levels (e.g.
Diploma level)
2. Proven ability to design, implement, and evaluate high impact performing arts curriculum and
programs that align with the Australian Curriculum, evidence-based research, educational
standards and student learning needs
3. Demonstrated ability to lead the ensemble rehearsals and contribute collaboratively to the delivery
of the lower strings program
4. Strong knowledge of lower string instrument techniques, including elementary to advanced
fingering and bowing techniques
5. Experienced performer
6. To inspire and develop students’ musical abilities while promoting a lifelong appreciation of music
through high-quality instruction, collaboration and performance opportunities
Desirable
1. Experience preparing students for AMEB examinations and SACE performance requirements
2. Experience in co-ordinating and participating in music tours, music camps, and school productions
3. Familiarity with digital music platforms, software, and music notation programs
4. Proficiency in at least the cello instrument, with the capability to teach multiple string instruments
considered advantageous
Appointment Conditions
The employee must have the following:
* A degree and/or a post graduate qualification in music, performance, or music education, or
significant relevant professional experience
* Working with Children Clearance (WWCC) ‘Ochre Card’ - employment is conditional on compliance
with the Care and Protection of Children Act (NT) 2007, as amended, and the accompanying
regulations
* National Police Clearance, maintained for the duration of employment.
This role is a fixed term part-time position and will require attendance on school business at various locations
and times, including occasional after-hours commitments for rehearsals and performances. Flexibility in
working hours is considered part of the role.
Superannuation Guarantee contributions at the current rate of 12% will be paid by the school in addition to
salary.
The Essington School offers employment benefits, including reduced tuition fees for family members and
increased stand-down periods.
Applications must include a detailed resume and a one-page summary addressing your suitability to
the position.