Role Introduction

Eton has an excellent reputation for instrumental and choral music; its orchestral and chamber music programmes are flourishing, including four orchestras and several chamber music groups, masterclasses with distinguished guest artists, several internal and external concerts and four string competitions every year. Eton has a vibrant string department, with plenty of performance opportunities and ensembles available for every boy.

As a Cello Teacher you will inspire and challenge boys to achieve their best and to practise. You will cater for the technical and musical development of cello players of all abilities from early grades to post-Diploma level, ensuring an excellent set up on the instrument, preparation for performances, competitions, exams and Music College entrance. You will also be expected to adhere to the administrative and reporting procedures of the school and to be supportive of the activities of the department, and to attend concerts in which your pupils perform (when possible). 

The successful candidate will be a first-class musician and teacher who will complete a team of 12 orchestral string teachers. The successful candidate will have the expertise to inspire and challenge boys to achieve excellence and demonstrate a willingness to support the work of the Music Department. This one-year contract will be particularly suited for a candidate who has expertise and interest in teaching students at the earlier stages of their musical and technical development. Some experience of high-level professional performing is desirable but not essential.

Working Pattern

There is no guaranteed number of hours however the Visiting Music Teacher role is currently for approximately 6 hours per week. However, there is an element of flexibility required in the role, and the number of lessons taught may change on a termly basis and could also vary. Your salary will be based on your skills and experience.

Please note interviews will be held week commencing 26th June 2023.

Due to the needs of the school and the department, we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. This job may also close early if a large number of applications are received. You are advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply.  

Main Duties

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• To teach cello across all abilities (particularly early stages) in the 13-18 age range (30 lessons per academic year);
• To inspire and oversee technical and musical development of young cello players and encourage practice;
• To prepare pupils for concerts, exams and competitions as appropriate;
• To timetable lessons, monitor, record and report on pupils’ progress;
• To meet all administrative deadlines;
• To attend concerts in which your pupils perform (when possible);
• Commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion;
• All positions at Eton are classed as ‘regulated activity’ as per the Keeping Children Safe in Education 2022 guidance, therefore a good understanding of safeguarding procedures is essential;
• Commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, including but not limited to, completing safeguarding training as required, and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood;
• Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality.

The Ideal Candidate

To be successful in this role, the incumbent should:

• Have previous experience of teaching 13-18-year olds;
• Have a music degree/diploma or equivalent qualifications;
• Have a genuine passion for cello teaching and knowledge of repertoire and exam material;
• Have the ability to engage and inspire young musicians of mixed abilities, including stimulating regular practice;
• Have experience promoting the cello to young musicians;
• Have experience preparing students for grade exams, diplomas, competitions and performances;
• Have the drive, positivity and dedication to inspire young musicians;
• Have excellent organisation and interpersonal communication skills;
• Have a willingness to collaborate and coordinate with other teachers and musicians in the department and within the framework of a school;
• Good written and verbal communication skills, especially in relation to staff, students and parents;
• Excellent IT skills.

You will also need to be:

• A ‘team’ player with the ability to work flexibly as part of a diverse team;
• Positive, enthusiastic and flexible with a proactive attitude;
• Be able to adapt to changing situations and be approachable, open and honest;
• Be dedicated, conscientious and hardworking;
• Able to work evenings and weekend by prior arrangement.

Benefits

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including an 11% employer contribution to your pension (with 4.9% employee contribution), Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme, free eyecare vouchers, a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free access to the College’s sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

About the College

We are an equal opportunities employer and are seeking applications from suitable candidates from all backgrounds. We are dedicated to creating and sustaining an environment that values individuality and difference and celebrates the diversity of both staff and pupils by fostering perseverance, tolerance and integrity. We believe in equal opportunity for everyone, irrespective of age, disability, gender reassignment, marriage or civil partnership, pregnancy or maternity, race, religion or belief, sex, sexual orientation or socio-economic background.

DISCLOSURE CHECKS

Eton College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including, but not limited to, reference checks with past employers, an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service (including Barred List information), an online search and, where applicable, Prohibition checks. If you are successful in your application, you will be required to complete a DBS Disclosure Application Form.  Any information disclosed will be handled in accordance with any guidance and/or Code of Practice published by the DBS. The College is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 and therefore all convictions, cautions, reprimands and final warnings (including those which would normally be considered as “spent” under the Act) must be declared, subject to the DBS filtering rules. It is a criminal offence for any person who is barred from working with children to attempt to apply for a position at the College.

Eton College