Head of Senior Music & Music Performance – August 2026

THE VACANCYCranleigh Abu Dhabi is delighted to invite applications for an exceptional Head of Senior Music & Music Performance to join our school from August 2026.This is a key leadership role within the Senior School, responsible for leading and developing a high-quality, ambitious and inspiring Music provision. We are seeking an outstanding and forward-thinking practitioner who can drive excellence in both academic Music and performance, while fostering a culture of creativity, participation and artistic expression.The successful candidate will bring strong leadership experience, a clear vision for Music within a leading independent school, and the ability to deliver both exceptional classroom teaching and a vibrant performance programme across the school.The closing date for applications is 15th April 2026. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis, and the School reserves the right to appoint earlier should an exceptional candidate be identified.ABOUT CRANLEIGH ABU DHABILocated in the heart of Saadiyat Island’s Cultural District, Cranleigh Abu Dhabi embodies the motto Ex Cultu Robur, From Culture Comes Strength. Our award-winning seven-hectare campus is surrounded by world-renowned institutions including the Louvre Abu Dhabi, NYU Abu Dhabi, Berklee College of Music, and the Natural History Museum Abu Dhabi.Our educational philosophy is proudly holistic. Alongside a broad and rigorous academic curriculum, students benefit from a wide range of co-curricular opportunities spanning performing arts, music, visual arts, sport, debate, and activities such as gymnastics, golf, horse riding, and swimming. We believe in developing the whole child, academically, socially, emotionally, and physically.To see more of daily life at Cranleigh, we encourage you to explore our social media channels.THE ROLEThe Head of Senior Music and Music Performance will lead the strategic development and day-to-day delivery of Music across the Senior School, ensuring a high-quality, engaging and aspirational programme.The post holder will be responsible for curriculum Music, including GCSE and A Level (or equivalent), ensuring strong academic outcomes alongside a rich and diverse performance offering. This includes concerts, ensembles, productions and wider performance opportunities that showcase student talent and build a strong culture of Music within the school.A key aspect of the role will be to inspire and develop students of all abilities, from those engaging in Music for enjoyment to those pursuing high-level performance pathways. The role will also involve leading and developing the Music team, working collaboratively across the school to ensure Music is embedded within the broader co-curricular programme.APPLICATION PROCESSCandidates should carefully review the attached Candidate Documents to guide 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 share this commitment. Successful applicants will be subject to appropriate background checks, including an enhanced DBS.Please note: This job description is a fluid document and may evolve to reflect the needs of our growing school. Additional tasks reasonably deemed appropriate may be required. A full job description will be provided alongside a formal contract offer.