Primary Music Teacher - August 2026 start

Reports to: Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts

Position Status

This role serves as a specialized teaching position within the staffing structure of the Primary School. The person appointed will report directly to the Head of Primary and will be accountable to the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts.

Primary Responsibilities

The individual will apply their professional expertise and judgment to collaboratively undertake the following responsibilities:

1. School Development

• Promote the vision, positive culture, and policies of the entire school while elevating the standards of teaching, learning, and student achievement in Music education from EYFS to Year 6.

• Oversee the development and ongoing review of the Primary School’s Music curriculum and associated schemes of work.

• Assist in evaluating the effectiveness of the school's Music policies and initiatives.

• Keep abreast of advancements in Music education that align with the school's requirements.

2. Teaching and Learning

• Serve as a model educator by demonstrating effective planning, teaching, and organization, coupled with high expectations for student achievement and behavior during all Music lessons.

• Collaborate with class teachers to develop Music assessment procedures.

• Work alongside the Music team to implement innovative schemes of work.

• Ensure effective progression throughout the various year groups.

• 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 be prepared to deliver suitable Music lessons in a classroom setting when required.

• Offer a variety of extracurricular Music clubs outside of school hours.

• Partner with the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts and Music Administrator to plan events that provide students opportunities to perform beyond the classroom.

3. Management

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

• Collaborate closely with the music team to ensure clear communication and high standards within the department.

• Be ready to lead music events.

4. Additional Specific Responsibilities

• Participate in ongoing professional development (CPD) activities.

• Engage in the school's Performance Review and Development processes.

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

• Alongside the Head of Primary Music and Performing Arts, Primary Senior Leadership Team, Heads of Years, and class teachers, support a performance program that nurtures 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, support and increase the variety and frequency of performances, including productions, concerts, and recitals with other schools in the Tokyo area and beyond.

Personal Specifications

Experience

• Demonstrated substantial and successful primary music teaching experience.

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

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

• Experience contributing to policy and decision-making processes.

• EYFS experience is also advantageous.

Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities

• Extensive 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 is beneficial.

• Experience in whole-class ensemble teaching.

• Proficiency in playing the piano during lessons.

• Ability to accompany instrumentalists and ensembles on the piano is advantageous.

• A strong team player who understands how collaboration contributes to school improvement and departmental success.

• Exceptional verbal and written communication skills.

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

Disposition – Evidence of

• Personal and intellectual qualities that inspire those around you.

• Initiative and a proactive, positive attitude as a team member.

• Commitment to excellence and a desire 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 review the attached document for the complete job description and submit your application using the provided link.

• The application deadline is April 12th, 2026.

• The British School in Tokyo welcomes applicants from diverse backgrounds who meet the necessary qualifications.

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