Job Overview
We are looking for an enthusiastic and dedicated Primary Music Teacher to join our vibrant primary school team in Nanjing. The role is designed for a candidate who can ignite a love for music in students aged 6-12, guide them to build foundational music skills, and create a joyful, inclusive learning environment where every child feels confident to explore and express themselves through music. You will develop age-appropriate music lessons that align with international primary education standards and local curriculum requirements, while collaborating with colleagues to integrate music into school life and enrich students’ holistic development.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum Design & Lesson Delivery
Develop and teach engaging music lessons for primary students (Grades 1-6) covering core music areas, such as vocal music (singing), instrumental skills (e.g., recorder, ukulele, percussion), music theory (rhythm, melody, harmony), and music appreciation (traditional, classical, and contemporary genres).
Align lesson plans with the school’s academic objectives, international primary music education frameworks (e.g., IB PYP Arts, UK National Curriculum for Music), and local curriculum guidelines to ensure balanced skill-building and creative engagement.
Integrate cross-curricular connections (e.g., linking music to history, culture, or language) to deepen students’ understanding and make learning more meaningful.
Classroom Instruction & Student Support
Guide students to master basic music techniques—such as reading simple sheet music, maintaining rhythm, and singing in tune—while encouraging creativity (e.g., composing short melodies, improvising with percussion).
Provide individualized support to students of different musical abilities, offering positive feedback and targeted guidance to help them build confidence and improve their skills.
Manage classroom dynamics effectively, fostering a respectful atmosphere where students feel comfortable participating, asking questions, and sharing their musical ideas.
Music Activities & Event Coordination
Organize and lead extracurricular music activities, including school choirs, instrumental clubs (e.g., recorder group, percussion ensemble), or music workshops (e.g., folk music, music production for kids).
Plan and coordinate school music events, such as end-of-term concerts, holiday performances (e.g., Christmas, Mid-Autumn Festival shows), or music-themed assemblies, to showcase students’ progress and celebrate their achievements.
Collaborate with other primary teachers and staff to integrate music into school events (e.g., cultural festivals, open days, graduation ceremonies).
Assessment & Communication
Conduct ongoing formative assessments of students’ musical skills, participation, and creativity, keeping accurate records of their progress and growth.
Prepare regular progress reports and communicate with parents/guardians via parent-teacher conferences, emails, or school platforms to update them on students’ development and address any concerns.
Provide input to the academic team on curriculum effectiveness, suggesting improvements to enhance the primary music program.
Resource & Safety Management
Manage music classroom resources, including musical instruments (percussion, recorders, ukuleles), sheet music, audio equipment, and teaching aids, ensuring proper storage, maintenance, and safe use.
Teach students safe practices for handling instruments and equipment, adhering to the school’s health and safety policies at all times.
Source and recommend age-appropriate music resources (e.g., educational songs, online music tools, children’s music books) to enrich lesson content.
Requirements & Qualifications
Education & Credentials
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Music Education, Music Performance, or a related field.
Valid teaching certification (e.g., PGCE, QTS, or equivalent international teaching qualification) with a focus on primary education or music education.
1+ year of teaching experience in primary music education (working with students aged 6-12) is preferred; experience in international or bilingual schools is a strong plus.
Skills & Competencies
Proficiency in vocal music and at least one primary-appropriate instrument (e.g., recorder, ukulele, percussion); ability to teach basic instrumental skills to young students.
Strong classroom management skills, with the ability to adapt teaching methods to meet the diverse learning needs of primary students.
Fluent English communication skills (spoken and written); basic Chinese proficiency (for daily communication with local staff, parents, or students) is preferred but not mandatory.
Familiarity with basic educational technology (e.g., music apps, audio players, PowerPoint) to enhance lesson delivery.
Passion for primary education and a genuine interest in nurturing children’s love for music.
Personal Attributes
Energetic, approachable, and able to build positive relationships with students, parents, and colleagues.
Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks (lesson planning, events, extracurricular activities) efficiently.
Flexible and adaptable, willing to align with the school’s culture and support occasional after-school or weekend events.
What We Offer
A competitive salary package (based on qualifications and experience) plus annual performance-based bonuses.
Comprehensive benefits, including medical insurance, paid annual leave, and professional development opportunities (music teaching workshops, curriculum training).
A supportive, collaborative work environment with modern facilities and well-equipped music classrooms.
Relocation assistance (if applicable) to help with a smooth transition to living and working in Nanjing.