Sarah Dover
Music Teacher and Tutor
Hetton-le-Hole,Durham
Summary
Head Chorister at Durham Cathedral from age 12, with extensive training at Sage Gateshead and Chetham's School of Music, earning multiple music awards. Completed four years of Classical Music training at RNCM, performing as a backing singer for renowned artists including Kylie Minogue and Hans Zimmer. Transitioned to music education, quickly advancing to Head of Music, successfully managing a department and overcoming various challenges. Established a thriving wedding performance business since 2022, seeking tutoring opportunities to complement teaching schedule.
Overview
9
9
years of professional experience
6
6
years of post-secondary education
Work history
Head Of Music
Oxclose Community Academy
Washington, Durham
2024.01 - Current
- Developed new KS3 and KS4 curriculum, ensuring comprehensive coverage of performance, appraising, and music theory.
- Established BTEC Music course for KS4 to enhance student learning opportunities.
- Directed musical productions, including 'Matilda' and 'Shrek the Musical,' fostering student engagement.
- Led successful Christmas Concerts, showcasing student talent and enhancing community relations.
- Founded choir programme, recruiting over 30 pupils and promoting musical participation.
- Implemented peri lesson programme, achieving enrolment of 70 pupils in individual music lessons.
- Created differentiated lesson plans to support SEND and high-achieving pupils effectively.
- Cultivated strong partnership with Sunderland Music Hub to expand resources and opportunities.
Curriculum lead of Music
St Aidans Academy
Darlington, Durham
2021.09 - 2023.12
- Established music department from inception, providing weekly KS3 lessons to prepare for KS4 GCSE Music.
- Developed extra-curricular activities including Choir, Band Practice, and Guitar Club.
- Conducted weekly assemblies featuring musical performances by pupils and staff.
- Organised concerts for parents and staff, showcasing student talent.
Singing Tutor
Little Voices
Clitheroe, Lancashire
2018.01 - 2021.09
Delivered LAMDA singing grades to pupils aged four to eighteen through weekly lessons.
Conducted singing and drama classes after university days to enhance student performance.
Singing Tutor
Footlights
Rossendale, Lancashire
2016.01 - 2019.09
Facilitated singing lessons for young pupils, enhancing relationship-building skills crucial for teaching career.
Education
PGCE - Teaching
Manchester Metropolitan University
Manchester 2020.09 - 2021.07
Bachelor of Arts - Music
Royal Northern College of Music
Manchester 2016.09 - 2020.07
A-Levels - Music, Drama
Chethams School of Music
Manchester 2014.09 - 2016.07
Prep School - Music
Durham Chorister School
DurhamSkills
- Grade 8 singing and piano (distinction)
- Grade 6 flute (merit)
- Music theory expertise
- Classical instrumentation
- Performance critique
- Musical creativity
- Leadership skills
- Vocal coaching
- Talent development
- Live performance execution
- Music composition
- Rehearsal preparation
- Effective communication
- Attention to detail
Timeline
Head Of Music
Oxclose Community Academy
2024.01 - Current
Curriculum lead of Music
St Aidans Academy
2021.09 - 2023.12
PGCE - Teaching
Manchester Metropolitan University
2020.09 - 2021.07
Singing Tutor
Little Voices
2018.01 - 2021.09
Bachelor of Arts - Music
Royal Northern College of Music
2016.09 - 2020.07
Singing Tutor
Footlights
2016.01 - 2019.09
A-Levels - Music, Drama
Chethams School of Music
2014.09 - 2016.07
Prep School - Music
Durham Chorister School