Teacher of Composition (maternity cover)

ROLE DESCRIPTION

Teacher of Composition

Now in its thirty-first year, The Purcell School’s Composition and Contemporary Music Department has profoundly shaped generations of young musicians: not only in what they write, but in how they listen, collaborate and think. With internationally active composers among the teaching staff, students produce a remarkable volume of new work each year and composition is woven deeply into the life of the School and its wider musical culture.

The alumni list speaks for itself, including Oliver Knussen, Joseph Phibbs, Mica Levi, Alissa Firsova, Jacob Collier, Alexis Ffrench and Drew Masters, while recent graduates are already making waves as emerging composers. In March, the School marked this continuing story with a dedicated concert at Wigmore Hall, celebrating the breadth, diversity and distinction of composers connected with Purcell over the decades. That strength continues to be recognised in high-profile competitions: in 2026, current Purcell students won in every category of the BBC Proms Young Composer competition, with their works scheduled for performance at the 2026 BBC Proms.

We are seeking a dynamic and inspiring composition teacher (maternity cover) who will bring exceptional skill, experience and energy to this distinctive area of the School. The successful candidate will join the School’s Composition Department, teaching primarily first and second-study composition and production students, many of whom are expected to progress to leading conservatoires and universities in the UK and internationally.

You will be a recognised artist, with experience of working with musically gifted young people in an academic or musical setting. You should be able to develop and maintain warm, respectful, and valued relationships with young people, while demonstrating a clear understanding of the professional boundaries that must exist between staff and students. You will act as a positive role model, showing self-motivation, integrity and mature interpersonal skills.

You will also play an active role in promoting the School and supporting its student recruitment strategy. Excellent verbal and written communication skills are essential, as is the ability to work effectively with students, parents and staff across the whole School community. You will be expected to maintain the highest personal and professional standards, including a clear understanding of the confidentiality required when working in a school environment. You must be able to demonstrate awareness of safeguarding and child protection legislation, policy and practice and will be expected to uphold an unequivocal commitment to the highest standards of safeguarding.

TERMS AND CONDITIONS

This is a part-time maternity cover contract from September 2026 with hours to be agreed with the Head of Composition and Contemporary Music and the Director of Music.

The hourly rate is £45.31.

Children of staff are not eligible to be educated at the School except through the normal admissions and audition process.

All posts are subject to regular appraisal.

Lunch can be taken free of charge at the School during term-time.

HOW TO APPLY

If you wish to apply, please complete the School’s Application Form (available on our website) and send it with a supporting Personal Statement. Please do not send a separate Curriculum Vitae. The closing date for applications is Sunday 31st May 2026 with interviews to be held in early June.

Personal statements should outline your experience, subject knowledge and evidence of your achievements. The Personal Statement is your opportunity to tell us how your skills and experience can contribute to an outstanding student experience.

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the School where you will have the opportunity to meet key staff and to lead a short lesson. Ca