Head of K-12 Music

We are seeking an accomplished Music educator and leader to take responsibility for Music across Kindergarten to Year 12. This is an opportunity to shape a coherent K-12 program that brings together outstanding classroom teaching with a vibrant co-curricular music culture.

The Head of K-12 Music will lead Music staff and tutors, strengthen progression from early musical experiences through elective and senior courses, and ensure curricular and co-curricular Music are visible and valued parts of Northholm’s academic, cultural and community life.

Key Responsibilities include:

• Providing educational and artistic leadership for Music from Kindergarten to Year 12.
• Leading curriculum planning, teaching, assessment and continuous improvement, including NESA and HSC requirements where applicable.
• Developing strong K-12 progression in musicianship, aural skills, performance, composition, musicology and musical literacy.
• Leading and developing Music staff and coordinating instrumental and vocal tutors as applicable.
• Providing strategic leadership of ensembles, choirs, bands, concerts, showcases and other co-curricular performance opportunities.
• Creating opportunities for broad participation while extending and recognising high-achieving student musicians.
• Managing Music resources, instruments, budgets, performance logistics, licensing and relevant risk and compliance requirements.
• Contributing Music to significant School events and building appropriate links with professional musicians, ensembles, universities, conservatoria and cultural organisations.

Applicants should possess the following:

• A strong record as an exemplary Music teacher and demonstrated capacity to lead and inspire others.
• Deep knowledge of Music curriculum, musicianship and performance practice, including relevant NESA and HSC requirements.
• Demonstrated experience leading curricular and co-curricular Music programs and high-quality performances or events.
• Strong musicianship and the capacity to support ensemble, instrumental, vocal, composition and music technology programs.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to coordinate competing academic, rehearsal and performance priorities.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to build positive relationships with students, staff, tutors and families.
• Current NESA teacher accreditation and a valid Working with Children Check, or eligibility to obtain and maintain these requirements.
• A commitment to Northholm Grammar’s culture of academic and artistic excellence, pastoral care and child safety.

Why work at Northholm?

Northholm offers a collegial K-12 environment on its beautiful semi-rural Arcadia campus, where staff can know students well and contribute meaningfully to the life of the School. The School is also investing in the growth of outstanding teachers and leaders through the Northholm Institute for Cultivating Excellence, connecting evidence-informed teaching, professional learning, leadership development and educational research.

• Access to professional learning, coaching and leadership development through the Northholm Institute for Cultivating Excellence.
• No compulsory weekend sport commitments for teaching staff.
• Access to the School’s Employee Assistance Program (EAP).
• Access to Fitness Passport.
• Annual staff influenza vaccinations.
• Salary sacrificing options.
• Convenient onsite staff parking.

Please note: while Northholm does not require compulsory weekend sport, this role may involve occasional performances, rehearsals and School events outside normal hours.

How to apply

If you are interested in applying for this position and possess a commitment to the education of young people, please submit your cover letter, curriculum vitae and the names and contact details of three professional referees. Applications should be addressed to the Principal and submitted via email: hennessys@northholm.nsw.edu.au.

Applications close Friday 23 October 2026.

*Please note only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

For further information about this position and the School, please see www.northholm.nsw.edu.au/employment

Applicants must satisfy Child Protection Legislation and will be subject to employment screening. All staff are required to actively support the ethos of the School. The successful applicant will be required to obtain and maintain a valid Working with Children Check and current teacher accreditation.