Primary Music Teacher - August 2026 start

Reports to: Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts

Status of the Position

This role is a specialized teaching position within the staffing framework of the Primary School. The individual in this role will be accountable to the Head of Primary and will report directly to the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts.

Key Responsibilities

The individual will utilize their professional expertise and judgement to collaboratively fulfill the following duties:

1. School Development

• To promote the vision, positive culture, and policies of the entire school while enhancing the standards of teaching, learning, and student attainment from EYFS to Year 6 in Music education.

• To take charge of developing and continuously reviewing the Primary School’s Music curriculum and associated schemes of work.

• To assist in assessing the effectiveness of the school's Music policies and developments.

• To stay updated on educational advancements in Music in alignment with the school's needs.

2. Teaching and Learning

• To serve as an exemplary educator, showcasing effective planning, teaching, and organization, alongside high expectations for achievement and behavior during all Music lessons.

• To aid in the development of Music assessment procedures in collaboration with class teachers.

• To collaborate with the Music team to implement creative schemes of work.

• To ensure effective progression across the various year groups.

• To coordinate with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts regarding facility bookings and timetabling, keeping class teachers informed of any changes or cancellations, and being ready to conduct suitable Music-related lessons in a classroom setting when needed.

• To provide a range of extra-curricular Music clubs beyond the school hours.

• To work together with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts and Music Administrator in planning events that allow students to perform outside of the classroom.

3. Management

• To guide and manage Educational Assistants (EAs) involved in Music lessons.

• To collaborate closely with the music team to ensure effective communication and high standards within the department.

• To be prepared to lead music events.

4. Additional Specific Responsibilities

• To engage in ongoing professional development (CPD) activities.

• To participate in arrangements instituted by the school for Performance Review and Development.

• In cooperation with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts and class teachers, to foster and enhance relationships with parents, other schools, educational institutions, and the wider community, including businesses, to enrich the teaching and personal development opportunities for students in Music education.

• In conjunction with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts, Primary Senior Leadership Team, Heads of Years, and class teachers, to support a performance program that enhances and encourages all primary students' music and drama skills through whole school events, key stage, year group, and class productions, as well as termly concerts and recitals.

• In partnership with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts and the Music Administrator, to support and expand the variety and frequency of performances, including productions, concerts, and recitals with other schools in the Tokyo area and beyond.

Personal Specifications

Experience

• Proven track record of substantial and successful primary music teaching experience.

• Familiarity with assessing student progress in music in accordance with the National Curriculum.

• A high level of personal skill and passion for music.

• Experience in contributing to policy and decision-making processes.

• EYFS experience is also beneficial.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Comprehensive knowledge and understanding of the English Music National Curriculum and the Early Years Foundation Stage Curriculum.

• Familiarity with or experience in Kodály, Orff, and/or Dalcroze Eurhythmics methodologies would be advantageous.

• Experience in whole-class ensemble teaching.

• Proficiency in playing the piano during lessons.

• Ability to accompany instrumentalists and ensembles on the piano would be beneficial.

• A strong team player with an understanding of how collaboration contributes to school improvement and departmental success.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

• Capacity to work under pressure, prioritize responsibilities, and manage time effectively to meet deadlines.

Disposition – Evidence of

• Personal and intellectual qualities that inspire others.

• Ability to take initiative and be a proactive and positive team member.

• Commitment to excellence and a drive to significantly enhance the music and drama skills and achievements of all students.

• Flexibility, motivation, energy, and enthusiasm.

• Approachability and a sense of humor.

How to Apply

• Please refer to the attached document for the complete job description, and submit your application via the provided link.

• The deadline for applications is April 12th, 2026.

• The British School in Tokyo encourages applicants from diverse backgrounds who possess the necessary skills.

• This position requires an enhanced DBS check or International Child Protection Check, along with satisfactory background checks from any previous countries of residence.