Teacher of Music (Jan - Apr 2026), Island School

We are looking to appoint a skilled and enthusiastic Music Teacher to join our dedicated team at Island School. This teaching role will be full-time and is offered on a temporary basis to cover maternity leave, between January and April 2025. 

The successful candidate will have the drive, commitment and expertise to assist the Music Department with the development of a dynamic music making. The person appointed will be fully conversant with contemporary thinking in the field of Music Education and must have a clear appreciation of the opportunities afforded by Music for personal growth and development.

In addition the successful candidate will be aware of how learning Music can be enhanced through extra-curricular opportunities.

The Curriculum

The leading emphasis is on practical music-making, underpinned by the belief that every student is capable of considerable achievement in Music. Students in Year 7, 8 and 9 are taught in mixed ability groups, each for a lesson a week. 

There is large uptake of Music at GCSE and IB. This is fed by an inspirational approach to KS3 teaching.  As a natural extension of this, the department produces many large-scale concerts, competitions and tours which are highlights of the school calendar.  The department also host prestigious visiting artists from around the world.

Specific Responsibilities:

• To teach Music at KS3 level.
• To teach Music at GCSE and IB (depending on experience).
• To assess students work regularly and to write informative feedback. 
• To take an active part in the schools extra-curricular Music Programme, including directing orchestras or choirs and other ensembles.
• To direct curricular and extra-curricular work towards school concerts and to fully participate in the planning and execution of these events. 
• To effectively manage the many resources in a congested music-making environment.
• To be able to liaise with parents, carers and colleagues in an effective and informative manner.

Facilities

The Music Department is housed in two well-stocked classrooms. Each room is fully equipped with classroom instruments. Within each room there are three practice rooms. We also have world-class Performance Space for our annual showcase and musical production.

The Successful Candidate Should Have:

• A degree in Music with qualified teacher status.
• Experience of teaching Music.
• A commitment and passion for teaching Music as a practical subject.
• An ability to help and support students in realizing their compositional intentions.
• To have a sound understanding of the theory of music in order to analyse work and to help students develop a deeper understanding of set works and projects at GCSE and IB level.
• A broad taste in music, including music from non-western cultures and a willingness to embrace how music is evolving through technology
• Outstanding practical music skills, whether as a performer or composer.
• Competent pianistic ability.
• A willingness to demonstrate and model singing and performing in the classroom.
• A commitment and a desire to get involved in Island School’s extensive and vibrant extra curricular Music Programme. This includes three choirs, three orchestras, jazz band and many smaller ensembles.
• A commitment to effective teamwork.
• Excellent communication skills with students, staff and parents.

Job Description of a Main Class Teacher is available HERE. Please visit OUR WEBSITE to learn more about the Island School.

Applicants must be a qualified teacher registered under EDB in Hong Kong, and is a permanent resident of Hong Kong or possess the valid Visa to work in Hong Kong

 

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and offers may be extended prior to the job closing date.

By applying for this position, your application may be considered for other opportunities (senior-level roles, head of department, etc.) within ESF.

ESF is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities. ESF will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, religion, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, creed, citizenship or any other status protected by local laws or regulations.

Personal data provided by job applicants will be used strictly in accordance with the ESF's Personal Data Policy, a copy of which will be provided upon request.

ESF is dedicated to ensuring the safety and well-being of all students in our care and expects all applicants to uphold this commitment. We adhere to rigorous recruitment practices, with all appointments contingent upon an interview, identity verification, criminal background checks (including ICPC, SCRC, and other international background checks as appropriate), assessment of social media presence, and positive references.

In accordance with the Keeping Children Safe in Education (KCSIE) 2025 guidelines, ESF may perform online checks for all shortlisted candidates prior to the interview.

  SecondaryTeacher SecondaryTeacherPerformingArts The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is the largest English-medium international school organisation in Hong Kong. Our 22 schools and comprehensive programme of extra-curricular activities bring out the best in every student through a personalised approach to learning and by inspiring curious minds.

There are over 18,000 students from 75 different nationalities in ESF kindergartens, primary, secondary and all-through schools.  www.esf.edu.hk