Assistant Head of Modern Foreign Languages in Southampton

Bitterne Park School is seeking an ambitious and talented Spanish specialist to join our successful Modern Foreign Languages Faculty as Assistant Head of Department. This is an exciting opportunity for an experienced teacher ready to step into leadership, or an existing middle leader looking to further develop their impact within a high-performing and supportive team. You will play a key role in shaping the strategic direction of MFL, with a particular focus on driving excellence in Spanish. Our MFL Faculty is central to our curriculum, and we are committed to developing confident, culturally aware students with a genuine enthusiasm for languages.

As Assistant Head of MFL, you will support the Head of Department in raising standards, increasing uptake, and ensuring consistently high-quality teaching across the faculty. The role will involve:

• Supporting the leadership and development of the MFL curriculum across Key Stages 3, 4 and 5, with a focus on Spanish
• Driving high standards of teaching, learning and assessment across the department
• Leading on the development of Spanish provision, including curriculum design, pedagogy and outcomes
• Coaching and developing colleagues to ensure consistently strong classroom practice
• Using data effectively to monitor progress and implement targeted interventions
• Contributing to departmental strategy, self-evaluation and improvement planning

We are looking for someone who:

• Is an outstanding Spanish teacher with a strong track record of securing excellent outcomes
• Has the ability to inspire students and promote a love of languages and culture
• Demonstrates leadership potential and a clear vision for improving MFL outcomes
• Is committed to increasing student engagement and uptake at Key Stage 4 and 5
• Works collaboratively and contributes positively to a strong team ethos

In return, we offer:

• A supportive and collaborative MFL Faculty with a clear vision for growth
• Opportunities for leadership development and career progression
• A culture of high expectations, strong support and professional trust
• The opportunity to make a genuine impact on students’ life chances within a thriving school community

This is a fantastic opportunity for a passionate and driven Spanish specialist to take a leading role in shaping the future of Modern Foreign Languages at Bitterne Park School.

Requirement We are looking for someone who can demonstrate:

• A recognised teaching qualification (e.g., QTS or equivalent).
• Strong subject knowledge in MFL and the ability to teach confidently across Key Stages 3 and 4 (primary trained staff will be considered for KS3 roles).
• The ability to plan and deliver high-quality, engaging lessons that support and challenge all learners.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build positive relationships with students and colleagues.
• Strong organisational skills and the ability to manage workload effectively in a busy school environment.
• A commitment to inclusive practice, safeguarding, and the welfare of young people.
• A reflective and proactive approach to professional development.

• Experience teaching MFL at Key Stage 5 or Key Stage 2.
• Experience working within a secondary school environment.
• Willingness to contribute to extra-curricular activities, enrichment, or wider school initiatives.
• An interest in curriculum development, assessment practice, or innovation in pedagogy.

Benefits:

• Healthcare Cash Plan options for you & your family
• Free on-site gym & personal & group training sessions
• Electric Car Scheme & onsite charging points
• Childcare and Nursery discount vouchers
• Tech scheme
• Charity Giving
• Free remote & onsite yoga sessions
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free Parking
• Gym & retailer discounts
• Onsite car valeting
• Enhanced Maternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave

Note: The asterisk (*) indicates that this is not an automatic entitlement to the scheme.