Music Therapist

Start Date: January 2026, as soon as available

Elmhurst Primary School, based in East London’s Forest Gate (Newham), is a thriving and inclusive academy for children aged 3–11. Part of the New Vision Trust, the school is committed to high academic and personal standards, underpinned by its motto “little seeds, big dreams.” With an ‘Outstanding’ Ofsted rating, Elmhurst offers a rich, engaging curriculum that celebrates its diverse, multilingual community. Pupils benefit from exceptional support in core subjects, specialist provision in music, sport, art and debating, and inspiring experiences such as Shakespeare performances and European residentials. The school also leads nationally as a Maths Hub and English Hub, supporting both pupil learning and teacher development.

We are seeking a qualified and creative Freelance Music Therapist to join our vibrant primary school community for just over half a day per week. This is a fantastic opportunity for a practitioner who is passionate about using music to support children’s emotional wellbeing, communication, confidence, and self-expression.

About the Role

The Music Therapist will provide a mix of small-group sessions and 1:1 therapeutic work for pupils who may benefit from additional support ranging from pupils in EYFS to Year 6. This may include children experiencing social or emotional challenges, SEND needs, or those who would thrive with a nurturing, creative outlet.

Key Responsibilities

• Plan and deliver weekly music therapy sessions (group and individual).
• Use therapeutic musical techniques to support emotional regulation, communication, and social interaction.
• Work closely with class teachers, SENCo, and pastoral staff to identify pupils and tailor interventions.
• Maintain clear, confidential records in line with professional standards.
• Provide brief feedback or termly reports on pupil progress as required.
• Contribute to a positive, inclusive, child-centred ethos within the school.

Person Specification

Essential:

• MA, MSc, or equivalent qualification in Music Therapy from a recognised training programme.
• Registration with the Health and Care Professions Council (HCPC).
• Experience working with children in an educational, clinical, or therapeutic setting.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to develop safe, supportive relationships with pupils.
• Clear commitment to safeguarding and child protection, including willingness to follow statutory procedures.
• Experience delivering both individual and group therapy sessions.
• Professional insurance and adherence to relevant codes of professional conduct.
• Ability to maintain organised, accurate clinical records.
• Capacity to manage your own caseload and work effectively within a team.

Desirable:

• Experience working with children with SEND, including autism, ADHD, learning difficulties or sensory needs.
• Understanding of neurodiversity-affirming and trauma-informed approaches.
• Ability to adapt sessions creatively using a range of instruments, communication styles, and therapeutic techniques.
• Experience supporting children with SEMH (social, emotional, and mental health) needs.
• Confidence in providing guidance to staff or parents to extend therapeutic support.
• Familiarity with the dynamics of a school environment.
• Experience evaluating therapeutic outcomes and contributing to multi-agency discussions.

We Offer:

• A warm, supportive school environment
• A dedicated space for therapeutic work
• Opportunities to collaborate with a committed pastoral and inclusion team

Safeguarding

Elmhurst Primary School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers, and visitors to share this commitment. Safeguarding is at the heart of everything we do and forms a fundamental part of our culture and daily practice. All successful applicants will be subject to thorough safer recruitment checks, including an enhanced DBS check and satisfactory references. Safeguarding and child protection are not just policies—they are embedded in our culture. We believe safeguarding is everyone’s responsibility, and we are proud to maintain a vigilant, proactive approach across the entire school community.

This role is not exempt from ROA 1974. A self-disclosure is required for this post, as well as an enhanced DBS certificate and barred list check. Please find the School's Safeguarding Policy attached for your attention.

Please note an online search will be conducted on all shortlisted candidates.

How to Apply

Please apply online by Monday 5th January 2026.

Interviews for shortlisted candidates will take place on the afternoon of Tuesday 13th January.

For informal enquiries, contact Farida Mayat (School Business Manager) at the following email address: farida.mayat@elmhurst.newham.sch.uk