Eton College is seeking to appoint an outstanding and experienced Teacher of Piano to work as part of a team of 15 Piano Teachers. Eton has a vibrant keyboard department with nearly 300 boys studying the piano, from beginners to numerous Associate and Licentiate diploma candidates every year. The successful candidate should have the ability to inspire, support and encourage pupils, with a proven track record of success and a passion for working with young musicians across a wide range of styles and skill levels. In addition, accompanying to all levels may be required on specific dates throughout the term, which will be confirmed to the successful candidate on appointment. This could include rehearsing and performing with boys in internal concerts, competitions, exams and auditions. Visiting Music Teachers are expected to conform to the administrative and reporting procedures of the school and to be supportive of the activities of the department.

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.

Eton College offers a wide range of benefits, including a generous pension scheme, Employee Assistance Programme, enhanced Maternity / Paternity scheme, a cycle to work scheme, subsidised lunches during term time, free or heavily discounted access to the College’s sport and leisure facilities and discounts at local retailers and businesses.

Key Tasks and Responsibilities

• To teach piano across the 13-18 age range, from beginners to pupils at more advanced levels.
• To organise weekly lessons with the students and engage in a reasonable level of flexibility and communication regarding timetabling.
• To monitor, record and report on pupils’ progress according to departmental procedures.
• To meet all administrative deadlines.
• To accompany in rehearsals, concerts, competitions, exams and auditions if required. Specific dates would be discussed on appointment.
• To attend the annual VMT department meeting and initial ‘sign up’ session in early September.
• All employees of Eton College are also expected to:
  • 
    
    • Develop a good understanding of safeguarding procedures, given all positions at Eton are classed as ‘regulated activity’;
    • Demonstrate a commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. This includes but is not limited to completing safeguarding training as required, complying with all safeguarding procedures and ensuring any safeguarding updates issued by the College are read and understood.
    • Understand and comply with procedures and legislation relating to confidentiality;
    • Display a commitment to and promotion of equality, diversity and inclusion.

Skills and Competencies Required

To be successful in this role, you will need to be able to demonstrate the following:

• Previous experience of teaching piano to 13-18 year old pupils, with evidence of success.
• A nurturing, adaptive and positive teaching style, to meet the needs of individual pupils and to support them in their respective areas of musical interest, whether classical or more contemporary.
• Confidence and enthusiasm in teaching a wide range of musical styles, including classical, ‘cross-over’, pop, jazz-inspired repertoire and musical theatre.
• Experience of preparing students for graded classical piano exams and diplomas.
• Enjoyment working with pupils whose interests lie in developing keyboard skills, improvisation and aural skills.
• Versatility as an accompanist, showing willingness to rehearse and perform with singers and instrumentalists of all abilities and across a variety of genres at busy periods in the Music Schools’ Calendar;
• Being an excellent sight-reader;

You may enjoy this role if:

• You are a ‘team’ player with ability to work flexibly as part of a team;
• You have exemplary written communication skills;
• You have excellent organisational and IT skills;
• You have excellent oral communication skills, in relation to staff, students and parents;
• You are positive and flexible with a pro-active ‘can do’ attitude;
• You have the ability to adapt to changing situations;
• You are able to work evenings and weekends by arrangement;
• You show a proven commitment to and interest in professional development.

It would be desirable if you possess:

• A diploma/professional teaching qualification.

Working Pattern

We offer flexibility regarding the working days as we recognise professional musicians have busy schedules. VMTs are expected to teach 30 lessons per pupil each academic year of flexible duration based on the students’ needs. The teaching element of this role is currently in the region of 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. There is no guaranteed number of pupils or hours of teaching or hours of work as an accompanist.

Interview Schedule

Wednesday 12th November: On-line interviews
Tues 18th & Thurs 20th November: In-person interview and observed lesson

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.