Job Overview
We are actively seeking a dynamic and passionate Primary Drama Teacher to join our energetic primary school team in Nanjing. The ideal candidate will spark creativity, confidence, and a love for performing arts in students aged 6-12, guiding them to explore self-expression, teamwork, and storytelling through drama. You will design engaging, age-appropriate drama lessons that align with international primary education standards and local curriculum goals, while building a safe, inclusive classroom space where every student feels empowered to take creative risks and share their ideas.
Key Responsibilities
Curriculum Design & Lesson Delivery
Develop and teach interactive drama lessons for primary students (Grades 1-6) covering core drama skills: role-play, improvisation, script reading, storytelling, voice projection, and stage movement.
Align lesson plans with the school’s academic objectives, international primary performing arts frameworks (e.g., IB PYP Arts, UK National Curriculum for Drama), and local curriculum guidelines to balance skill development and creative exploration.
Integrate cross-curricular connections (e.g., linking drama to history, literature, or social studies) to deepen students’ understanding of other subjects while fostering artistic expression.
Classroom Instruction & Student Support
Guide students to build foundational drama skills—such as character development, emotional expression, and collaborative problem-solving—through fun, hands-on activities (e.g., skits, mime games, group storytelling).
Provide personalized support to students of varying confidence levels, using positive reinforcement and constructive feedback to help shy students build self-assurance and encourage outgoing students to refine their skills.
Manage classroom dynamics effectively, ensuring a respectful atmosphere where all students feel safe to participate, make mistakes, and celebrate each other’s contributions.
Drama Productions & Extracurricular Activities
Organize and lead extracurricular drama initiatives, including drama clubs, improvisation workshops, or storytelling circles for primary students.
Plan and coordinate school drama productions (e.g., end-of-term plays, seasonal skits, or class-level performances) — from script selection and rehearsals to set design support and stage management — to showcase students’ progress.
Collaborate with other primary teachers and staff to integrate drama into school events (e.g., cultural festivals, open days, graduation ceremonies) to enhance engagement.
Assessment & Communication
Conduct ongoing formative assessments of students’ drama skills, participation, creativity, and teamwork, maintaining detailed records of their growth and progress.
Prepare regular progress reports and communicate with parents/guardians via parent-teacher conferences, emails, or school platforms to share students’ achievements and address any concerns.
Provide input to the academic team on curriculum effectiveness, suggesting improvements to strengthen the primary drama program.
Resource & Safety Management
Manage drama classroom resources, including scripts, props, costumes, sound equipment, and teaching aids, ensuring proper storage, maintenance, and safe use.
Teach students safe practices for using drama tools (e.g., props, stage equipment) and adhering to classroom rules during performances or activities.
Source and recommend age-appropriate drama resources (e.g., children’s scripts, storytelling books, drama apps) to enrich lesson content and extracurricular activities.
Requirements & Qualifications
Education & Credentials
Bachelor’s degree or higher in Drama Education, Performing Arts, Theater Studies, or a related field.
Valid teaching certification (e.g., PGCE, QTS, or equivalent international teaching qualification) with a focus on primary education or drama education.
1+ year of teaching experience in primary drama education (working with students aged 6-12) is preferred; experience in international or bilingual schools is a strong plus.
Skills & Competencies
Proficiency in designing and leading age-appropriate drama activities, with knowledge of child development to adapt exercises for different primary grade levels.
Strong classroom management skills, able to engage young learners and create a structured yet flexible environment that encourages creativity.
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., video recording tools, presentation software) to support lesson delivery and performance documentation.
Passion for primary education and a commitment to nurturing children’s confidence and creativity through drama.
Personal Attributes
Energetic, expressive, and able to connect with young students through enthusiasm and empathy.
Organized and detail-oriented, with the ability to manage multiple tasks (lesson planning, rehearsals, productions) efficiently.
Flexible and adaptable, willing to align with the school’s culture and support occasional after-school or weekend rehearsals/performances.
What We Offer
A competitive salary package (commensurate with qualifications and experience) plus annual performance-based bonuses.
Comprehensive benefits, including medical insurance, paid annual leave, and professional development opportunities (drama teaching workshops, curriculum training).
A supportive, collaborative work environment with modern facilities and dedicated space for drama classes and rehearsals.
Relocation assistance (if applicable) to help with a smooth transition to living and working in Nanjing.