Head of Performing Arts

About this Role Job Title: Head of Performing Arts

Location: Walsall Studio School

Walsall Studio School & Sixth is a deliberately small, forward thinking school for young people aged 14-19 who are passionate about creative pathways in performance, music, and media.

We offer a unique learning environment that mirrors a modern creative workplace, with flexible studio spaces and industry standard facilities.

Traditional schools don't work for everyone, that's why we built something different. Where others teach theory, we give you networks and experience, so that you are ahead of the game professionally.

With just 60 places in Year 10 and 11 and 90 in Sixth Form, every student is known, supported and challenged to succeed.

Our aim is simple: to provide a curriculum that gets you hired. We work with industry experts to design learning that is real, relevant and future focussed. Students don't just sit in classrooms - they collaborate, create, problem solve and present like professionals.

Students achieved a phenomenal average grade of Distinction+ in 2025, but we know that life is more than just qualifications. We prepare you for responsibility, leadership and resilience - skills that you will need for life.

Everything we do is shaped by our MAGIC values - Motivation, Aspiration, Grit, Independence and Collaboration. We are a place where you can be yourself, push boundaries and become unmissable.

Want to make a difference to young people?

Are you ready to embark on a rewarding journey within an educational community that values increasing opportunities, improving outcomes? We are looking for a Head of Performing Arts to join our team. Reporting to the Assistant Headteacher you will undertake:

Key Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide effective leadership of the Performing Arts Department, setting clear expectations and strategic direction.
• Lead departmental self evaluation, curriculum review, and improvement planning in line with school priorities.
• Model high standards of professionalism and pedagogy, inspiring staff to deliver consistently excellent teaching.
• Line manage and support departmental staff, overseeing appraisal, professional development, and performance.
• Monitor and evaluate the quality of teaching, learning, and assessment through regular learning walks, practical reviews, and data analysis.
• Build on the existing strengths of the Performing Arts department, driving continued excellence and innovation.

Pay range: MPS/UPS

Qualifications and Skills

• Qualified teacher status
• Degree or equivalent qualification relevant to Performing Arts
• Evidence of further professional development and leadership training
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to inspire, motivate, and lead others with clarity and purpose
• Ability to analyze data effectively to inform planning and intervention
• Strong organizational skills; able to plan, delegate, and prioritize effectively
• Ability to manage and communicate effectively within a team

For full details of the post please see attached Job Description and Person Specification

Benefits

• Financial, Health and Lifestyle benefits
• Discounts on everyday purchases (Eden Red)
• Comprehensive free of charge health plan (UK Health Care)
• Cycle to work scheme via Halfords
• Access to the Blue Light Card
• Further benefits including education sector leading CPD

The Mercian Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of young people and vulnerable adults, and all appointments are subject to enhanced Disclosure & Barring Service (DBS) checks and satisfactory references.

The Mercian Trust is also committed to promoting equality, challenging discrimination and developing community cohesion. We welcome applications from all sections of the community.