Head of Strings
The Guernsey Music Service is recruiting an experienced, dynamic and well-qualified Head of Strings with the vision and energy to lead and take responsibility for the work of our String Department and to make a full contribution to the ethos, identity and work of the Service.
The Guernsey Music Service is seeking to appoint, with effect from September 2026, an experienced, dynamic and well-qualified Head of Strings with the vision and energy to lead and take responsibility for the work of our String Department and to make a full contribution to the ethos, identity and work of the Service.
The person appointed will be required to teach upper strings (violin and viola) at primary, secondary and post-16 levels, teaching from beginner to diploma level, inspiring and motivating young musicians in a variety of contexts and leading our team of string teachers under the direction of the Head of Service. They should have a secure understanding of the place of instrumental tuition within the school music curriculum and demonstrate by example a personal commitment to music in the wider community of the Island.
As well as demonstrating a commitment to high standards of teaching and learning, they will have the ability and experience to teach in a whole class environment delivering our exciting and inclusive general musicianship programme which draws heavily on the Kodaly method. They will also have the ability to teach individual and small group instrumental lessons, direct orchestras and lead ensembles ranging from string quartets to our Youth Orchestra at our thriving Music Centre.
This is an excellent opportunity to join a committed team of teachers in an established Service with a reputation for high standards and low staff turnover. The Service is recognised as making a very significant contribution to the Island’s cultural life and has excellent relationships with national and international institutions. Around 800 pupils attend the Centre each week and the range of groups includes 7 orchestras, 7 bands and 6 choirs, and many other chamber and feeder groups. Most Music Centre rehearsals take place on Saturdays, and teachers work Tuesday through to most Saturdays during term time. Instrumental lessons for older pupils usually take place outside curriculum time. Teachers will be expected to travel between schools during the school day with any instruments and equipment that they require.
The successful candidate will lead by example and have first class communication and organisational skills and the ability to maintain productive relationships with pupils, parents and staff. They will be expected to make a full and distinctive contribution to the work of the Service.
This role comes with a competitive salary and entitlement to a pension scheme.
For candidates who would be required to relocate to the Bailiwick of Guernsey, we also offer a relocation package to help with the cost of moving over to the Island. This relocation package offers different solutions depending on an individual’s circumstances.
More detailed information can be found in the Relocation Directive below.
This role offers off-Island candidates an 8-year Long Term Employment Permit (see details below). This permit will also enable candidates to bring immediate family members with them who will be permitted to work on the Island in any sector. There are also good schools on Island for those candidates looking to bring their families with them.
For more information about Guernsey, please follow the below links.
How to Apply
Contact: Tim Wright by telephone on 014812 26097 or by email at Tim.Wright@gov.gg
We strongly advise that applicants speak to the contact(s) named above before applying for this role. Please do not email a CV to the contact shown above. Applications should be submitted online. If you are unable to complete an online application, please contact the Recruitment Team.
Candidates will need to upload a copy of their most up to date CV detailing full employment, voluntary work, and education history (along with the awarding body of any qualifications). The CV should include reasons for any gaps in employment. Candidates should also attach supporting information to demonstrate how they meet the key criteria for the role. The key criteria can be found within the job. The supporting information provided by candidates will be used by the shortlisting panel when selecting candidates for interview.
Internal applicants are required to inform their Line Manager before applying for any States of Guernsey positions. Internal references may be taken up prior to interview.
The States of Guernsey is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults. Appointment to this role will be subject to satisfactory pre-employment checks being received and some candidates will be required to undertake enhanced and additional pre-employment checks.
Should the successful applicant not meet the requirements of the role sufficiently they may be appointed at a lower grade than stated. The successful applicant would then have the opportunity to progress to the grade advertised once the necessary skills and knowledge have been developed and they have demonstrated the ability to undertake the duties at the higher level.
This Job listing is provided by an external organisation. Music Mark does not endorse the content and does not accept any liability for the accuracy, reliability, or completeness of the material provided. Music Mark is not responsible for ascertaining the suitability or legal status of a prospective employer.
About the Provider
Guernsey Music Service
The Guernsey Music Service was established in 1978 and now supports more than 1000 young musicians offering individual and group lessons as well as supporting the curriculum.
