Head of Senior Music & Music Performance - August 2026
About This Role
THE VACANCY
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is thrilled to announce a vacancy for the esteemed position of Head of Senior Music & Music Performance, with a start date scheduled for August 2026.
This crucial leadership role within the Senior School focuses on driving the development and enhancement of a premier, ambitious, and inspiring Music program. We seek an outstanding and innovative educator who can champion excellence in both academic Music and performance while fostering a culture rich in creativity, engagement, and artistic expression.
The ideal candidate will bring significant leadership experience, a clear vision for Music within a leading independent school, and the ability to provide exceptional classroom instruction alongside a vibrant performance program throughout the school. Expertise in teaching Music Technology and overseeing Instrumental Music Provision is a must.
The application deadline is set for April 15, 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the School reserves the right to make an earlier appointment if an exceptional candidate is identified.
ABOUT CRANLEIGH ABU DHABI
Located in the dynamic Cultural District of Saadiyat Island, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi embodies the motto Ex Cultu Robur, From Culture Comes Strength. Our award-winning seven-hectare campus is conveniently situated near prestigious institutions such as the Louvre Abu Dhabi, NYU Abu Dhabi, Berklee College of Music, and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.
Our educational philosophy is fundamentally holistic. Beyond a comprehensive and rigorous academic curriculum, students are offered a wide range of co-curricular opportunities, including performing arts, music, visual arts, sports, debate, as well as activities like gymnastics, golf, horse riding, and swimming. We are devoted to nurturing the whole child—academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.
For insights into daily life at Cranleigh, we encourage you to explore our social media channels.
THE ROLE
The Head of Senior Music and Music Performance will be responsible for the strategic development and daily execution of the Music program across the Senior School, ensuring it remains high-quality, engaging, and aspirational.
The individual in this role will oversee the Music curriculum, including GCSE and A Level (or equivalent), striving for strong academic outcomes alongside a diverse and enriching performance experience. This includes concerts, ensembles, productions, and additional performance opportunities that showcase student talent and promote a vibrant culture of Music within the school.
A key aspect of this position will be to inspire and develop students of varying skill levels, from those who engage in Music for enjoyment to those pursuing advanced performance pathways. The role will also involve leading and growing the Music team, collaborating across the school to ensure that Music is integrated into the broader co-curricular landscape.
APPLICATION PROCESS
Candidates are encouraged to carefully review the attached Candidate Documents to support their application.
Cranleigh Abu Dhabi is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All staff and volunteers are expected to uphold this commitment. Successful candidates will undergo appropriate background checks, including an enhanced DBS.
Please note: This job description is a living document and may evolve to meet the changing needs of our growing school. Additional duties that are reasonably deemed appropriate may be assigned. A comprehensive job description will be provided with a formal contract offer.
Apply via the WhatSchool platform.