Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor
Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor

Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor

Part-Time Home office (partial)
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At a Glance

  • Tasks: Teach Academic English and support international students in their studies.
  • Company: Join Heriot-Watt University, a diverse community focused on real-world impact and inclusivity.
  • Benefits: Enjoy a competitive salary, remote work options, and professional development opportunities.
  • Why this job: Make a difference in students' lives while working in a supportive and innovative environment.
  • Qualifications: A first degree and relevant teaching qualifications or significant presessional experience required.
  • Other info: This role is casual engagement, with a minimum of 35 hours per week guaranteed.

Salary: Grade 7 £20.37 p/h full time 35 hrs guaranteed per week

Contract Type: Casual engagement Full Time (Remote from within the UK OR on campus)

Start Dates:

  • 02/06/2025 - 10 week course induction with teaching starting 09/06/2025
  • 30/06/2025 - 6 week course induction with teaching starting 07/07/2025

Our BALEAP accredited presessional course (PSE) develops students' language and study competence to enable them to perform well on their chosen degree programmes. PSE comprises four modules each between 4 and 6 weeks in length. The number of modules students are required to take is determined by the students' language level.

We are seeking motivated independent individuals who can deliver high-quality teaching online and can facilitate an excellent student experience on the programme. We provide a competitive salary, comprehensive induction, and professional development opportunities.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

  • Teach Academic English Research and Study Skills to international undergraduate and postgraduate students from a range of subject disciplines;
  • Act as a personal tutor for students;
  • Prepare students for a variety of formative and summative assessments with particular emphasis on the research and writing text practices and processes required at undergraduate and postgraduate levels;
  • Show flexibility and creativity in teaching to ensure that student needs are met and course aims and outcomes are achieved;
  • Demonstrate a keen interest in and awareness of the needs of international students from a wide range of cultural backgrounds;
  • Maintain accurate records of work and attendance and attend weekly meetings/moderation sessions with course leaders to ensure quality standards are maintained;
  • Mark, grade, and provide feedback on student work promptly;
  • Use, engage with, and fully exploit the University’s virtual learning environment (CANVAS) and other learning and teaching tools as required;
  • Actively engage with continuous professional development opportunities (including observations).

While the amount of contact time and other teaching-related activities will vary, tutors can expect to work for a minimum of 35 hours per week, of which 15 hours per week will be teaching and tutorials, with the remainder comprising marking, feedback, record-keeping, meetings, and professional development.

This job description is not exhaustive and the role holder may be required to undertake other relevant duties commensurate with the grading of the post as directed by the Course Leader.

Please note we are not able to offer accommodation assistance. We can only consider applications from tutors who already have eligibility to work in the UK and will be based in the UK for the duration of the programme. Please note that teachers are required to be available to the end of the course.

Essential criteria:

  • A first degree in any field and one of the following combinations:
  • Cambridge DELTA / Trinity DipTESOL
  • Cambridge CELTA / Trinity CertTESOL and a Postgraduate Masters degree in any field
  • Cambridge CELTA / Trinity CertTESOL and significant presessional experience
  • Competent in the use of relevant EduTech and IT packages
  • Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a team
  • Desirable criteria:

    • TEAP qualification and/or membership of relevant professional body (e.g. BALEAP)
    • Familiarity with CANVAS or similar Virtual Learning Environment e.g. Moodle
    • Experience of presessional teaching

    How to Apply:

    Online interviews (30 mins) will be held in w/c 26th May. Please apply via the Heriot-Watt online recruitment system (1) Cover letter describing your interest and suitability for the post; (2) CV.

    For informal queries please contact Judith Gorham at .

    At Heriot-Watt we are passionate about our values and look to them to connect our people globally and to help us collaborate and celebrate our success through working together. Our research programmes can deliver real-world impact which is achieved through the diversity of our international community and the recognition of creative talent that connects our global team.

    Heriot-Watt University is committed to securing equality of opportunity in employment and to the creation of an environment in which individuals are selected, trained, promoted, appraised, and otherwise treated on the sole basis of their relevant merits and abilities. Equality and diversity are all about maximising potential and creating a culture of inclusion for all.

    Heriot-Watt University values diversity across our University community and welcomes applications from all sectors of society, particularly from underrepresented groups.

    Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor employer: Heriot-Watt University

    Heriot-Watt University is an exceptional employer, offering a dynamic and inclusive work culture that prioritises employee wellbeing and professional development. As a Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor, you will have the opportunity to engage with a diverse international student body while enjoying flexible working arrangements, whether remotely or on campus. With a commitment to equality and diversity, the university fosters an environment where your contributions are valued, and your growth is supported.
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    Contact Detail:

    Heriot-Watt University Recruiting Team

    StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫

    We think this is how you could land Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor

    ✨Tip Number 1

    Familiarise yourself with the specific requirements of the Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor role. Highlight your experience in teaching Academic English and any relevant qualifications, such as CELTA or DELTA, during your interactions.

    ✨Tip Number 2

    Engage with the university's virtual learning environment, particularly CANVAS. If you have experience using similar platforms, be ready to discuss how you can leverage these tools to enhance student learning during your interview.

    ✨Tip Number 3

    Showcase your understanding of the diverse needs of international students. Prepare examples of how you've adapted your teaching methods to cater to different cultural backgrounds and learning styles.

    ✨Tip Number 4

    Be proactive in demonstrating your commitment to continuous professional development. Mention any recent training or workshops you've attended that relate to presessional teaching or online education, as this will show your dedication to improving your skills.

    We think you need these skills to ace Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor

    Teaching English as a Foreign Language (TEFL)
    Academic Writing Skills
    Research Skills
    Assessment Design and Evaluation
    Student-Centred Teaching Approaches
    Cross-Cultural Communication
    Use of Virtual Learning Environments (VLEs)
    Time Management
    Record Keeping and Administration
    Feedback and Grading Techniques
    Adaptability in Teaching Methods
    Professional Development Engagement
    Team Collaboration
    IT Proficiency in EduTech Tools

    Some tips for your application 🫡

    Tailor Your Cover Letter: Make sure to customise your cover letter to highlight your interest in the Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor position. Mention specific skills and experiences that align with the job description, such as your teaching experience and familiarity with online learning environments.

    Highlight Relevant Qualifications: Clearly outline your qualifications in your CV, especially any relevant certifications like CELTA or DELTA. Include your educational background and any experience you have in teaching academic English or working with international students.

    Showcase Your Teaching Philosophy: In your application, briefly describe your teaching philosophy and how it aligns with the needs of international students. Emphasise your flexibility and creativity in teaching methods, as well as your commitment to providing an excellent student experience.

    Proofread Your Application: Before submitting, thoroughly proofread your cover letter and CV for any spelling or grammatical errors. A polished application reflects your attention to detail and professionalism, which are crucial for a teaching role.

    How to prepare for a job interview at Heriot-Watt University

    ✨Showcase Your Teaching Experience

    Be prepared to discuss your previous teaching roles, especially any experience with presessional English or working with international students. Highlight specific examples of how you've adapted your teaching methods to meet diverse student needs.

    ✨Familiarise Yourself with EduTech Tools

    Since the role involves using virtual learning environments like CANVAS, make sure you are comfortable discussing your experience with such platforms. If you have used similar tools, be ready to explain how you utilised them to enhance student learning.

    ✨Demonstrate Flexibility and Creativity

    The job requires a flexible approach to teaching. Think of instances where you had to adapt your lesson plans or teaching style to better suit your students. Be ready to share these examples during the interview.

    ✨Prepare for Questions on Student Engagement

    Expect questions about how you would engage and motivate students in an online setting. Consider strategies you've used in the past to foster a positive learning environment and be ready to discuss them.

    Pre-sessional English for Academic Purposes Tutor
    Heriot-Watt University
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