Summary
Overview
Work history
Education
Skills
Certification
A bit about Me
Timeline
Generic
Robert Pinniger

Robert Pinniger

London,UK

Summary

Accomplished educator with 12 years’ experience leading music education in primary schools, now transitioning into English language teaching following the completion of a Level 5 TEFL qualification. Recognised for curriculum development, strategic planning, and leading subject areas across whole-school initiatives. Brings a strong foundation in classroom management, public speaking, and creative engagement. Experienced in delivering training to staff and organising high-profile events, with a focus on building inclusive and innovative learning environments. Committed to applying this experience within TEFL contexts to support language development and learner confidence.

Overview

17
17
years of professional experience
1
1
Certification

Work history

Music Teacher and Subject Leader

Cayley Primary School
London
09.2022 - Current

Music Lead
Cayley Primary School, London | 09/2021 – Present

  • Developed and implemented a comprehensive music curriculum covering rhythm, pitch, theory, performance, history, and music technology, leading to measurable improvements in students' musical abilities and engagement in the arts.
  • Participated in "The Big Sing," a large-scale choral project involving over 200 student participants, significantly enhancing student engagement and boosting the school's community spirit. This event provides students with a platform to showcase their talents, raising their aspirations and self-confidence.
  • Led the Corum Shakespeare's Schools Foundation project, integrating drama and music to create a multidisciplinary learning experience. This program enriches students' understanding of Shakespearean literature, develops their performance skills, and fosters a love for the arts.
  • Directed the Royal Opera House's Create and Sing program, offering students a unique opportunity to explore opera through drama and music, raising their cultural awareness and inspiring many to pursue further artistic endeavors.
  • Led the successful submission of the Artsmark Award, coordinating whole-school input and aligning creative initiatives with Arts Council England’s framework. This involved strategic planning, evidence gathering, and showcasing the school’s commitment to arts education, resulting in national recognition for the quality and breadth of our creative curriculum.
  • Partnered with a neighboring school to support with developing their music curriculum, providing guidance and support to ensure a consistent and high-quality music education across both institutions. This collaboration strengthens the music programs in both schools, benefiting a larger student community.
  • Conducted music teacher training for Tower Hamlets Arts and Music Education Service (THAMES), sharing best practices and innovative teaching methods with other educators. This training helps improve the overall quality of music education in the borough and empowers teachers to deliver more effective and engaging lessons.
  • Coordinated school-wide musical events and lead various student ensembles, which receive positive feedback from students and parents, establishing a strong musical culture within the school.
  • Served as a staff governor, contributing to strategic decision-making and advocating for staff and student interests, with a focus on promoting the arts as a vital component of a well-rounded education.

Musician and Producer

Self Employed
01.2009 - Current
  • Self-employed musician and producer and songwriter, performing as a singer and guitarist with bands and solo.
  • Writer, composer and producer of the education album Musical World. www.musicalworld.co.uk


Music Lead and Teacher

Willow Brook Primary Academy
09.2013 - 02.2021
  • Led the music department across EYFS, KS1, and KS2, ensuring that students received a robust and well-rounded musical education. The long-term impact of this work has been evident in the increased number of students pursuing music at higher levels, as well as the overall enhancement of the school's arts programs.
  • Delivered inspirational lessons that engaged students and facilitated rapid progress in their learning. Many students have shown significant improvement in their musical skills and confidence, which has translated into higher academic achievement and increased participation in school activities.
  • Organised educational visits, concerts, and extracurricular activities that provided students with enriching experiences beyond the classroom. These initiatives have not only broadened students' cultural horizons but also motivated them to set higher personal and academic goals.
  • Secured music scholarships for two students through the London Mayor's Fund, providing them with the opportunity to further their musical education and development.

Music Dept Assistant

Forest Gate School
09.2012 - 07.2013
  • Assisted in the music department, supporting GCSE and B-TEC students with classroom teaching and learning.

Education

Level 5 Diploma in TEFL - English

The TEFL Academy
UK
10/2024 - 06/2025

Bachelor of Music (BMus): Music Performance and Production - Music

London Centre of Contemporary Music (Middlesex University)
UK
09/2009 - 06/2012

HNC: Music Performance (Voice) - Music

London Centre of Contemporary Music (Middlesex University)
UK
09/2009 - 06/2010

Skills

  • Subject leader
  • Curriculum development
  • Teacher training
  • Classroom management
  • Strategic planning
  • Event management
  • Public speaking


Certification

  • UK Passport
  • Full DBS Check
  • Full UK Driving Licence (1993)

A bit about Me

Music has been central to my journey, from performing in four London bands to producing Musical World, a curriculum-linked children’s album. These creative projects have deepened my musical versatility, collaboration skills, and adaptability. Alongside teaching, I maintain a balanced lifestyle through swimming, cycling, and Wing Chun martial arts — practices that cultivate discipline, mindfulness, and effective stress management. These diverse experiences inform my teaching philosophy, which centres on creativity, connection, and supporting learners to grow in confidence. As I transition into English language teaching, I bring with me a passion for communication and a belief in the power of rhythm, language, and expression to transform learning.

Timeline

Music Teacher and Subject Leader

Cayley Primary School
09.2022 - Current

Music Lead and Teacher

Willow Brook Primary Academy
09.2013 - 02.2021

Music Dept Assistant

Forest Gate School
09.2012 - 07.2013

Musician and Producer

Self Employed
01.2009 - Current

Level 5 Diploma in TEFL - English

The TEFL Academy
10/2024 - 06/2025

Bachelor of Music (BMus): Music Performance and Production - Music

London Centre of Contemporary Music (Middlesex University)
09/2009 - 06/2012

HNC: Music Performance (Voice) - Music

London Centre of Contemporary Music (Middlesex University)
09/2009 - 06/2010
Robert Pinniger