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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Modern Foreign Languages department, shaping engaging lessons in French and Spanish.
- Company: Join Downsend, an innovative independent school with a vision for future-ready students.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunches, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a supportive community that values diversity and excellence in education.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' language skills and cultural understanding in a vibrant environment.
- Qualifications: Proven experience in teaching French and Spanish, with leadership skills and a passion for languages.
The predicted salary is between 45000 - 55000 ÂŁ per year.
About the School
Downsend is an innovative and forward‑thinking independent school whose vision is to inspire a generation to embrace the future, shaping incredible people who will make change in our world. We prepare our young people for the future with a creative, problem‑solving approach, think big, celebrate innovation and never hold back. Downsend has been judged to be “excellent in all areas” by the Independent School Inspectorate.
About Cognita
Cognita is a global leader in independent education, founded in 2004. With 90 schools in 21 countries, we serve more than 100,000 students and aim to create an environment where everyone can thrive in a rapidly evolving world.
About the Role
As Head of Modern Foreign Languages at Downsend School you will shape and lead a vibrant MFL provision across Key Stage 2 to Key Stage 5. Working closely with the Executive Head and Heads of School, you will lead the strategic development of French and Spanish, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching and learning. You will inspire pupils through engaging lessons, enrich co‑curricular opportunities, and promote a linguistic and cultural ethos. This permanent, full‑time role starts September 2026.
Who We Are Looking For
You are an enthusiastic, dynamic language specialist with a proven track record of excellent classroom practice and leadership. You have experience teaching French and Spanish to GCSE and at least one language to A Level, and you bring vision, energy, and organisational skills to lead a successful department. A confident communicator and effective role model, you enjoy working collaboratively, are committed to professional development, and thrive in a busy, high‑expectation environment where safeguarding and excellence sit at the heart of school life.
Benefits
- Competitive salary depending on qualifications and experience
- Enrolment in Teachers' Pension Scheme
- Free lunch during term time
- School holidays and public holidays
- Free parking on site (subject to availability)
- School fee discount
- Exclusive third‑party discounts
- Ongoing professional development
We are an equal opportunities employer committed to diversity and treating all employees with dignity and respect regardless of background.
Head of MFL in Leatherhead employer: Cognita Schools
Contact Detail:
Cognita Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of MFL in Leatherhead
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who work at independent schools. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings or even a recommendation.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your passion for languages! When you get the chance to meet with potential employers, share your innovative ideas for engaging lessons and how you plan to inspire students. Let your enthusiasm shine through!
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Downsend is all about creativity and innovation, so think of examples from your experience that align with their vision and how you can contribute to their vibrant MFL provision.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team and ready to embrace the future of education.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of MFL in Leatherhead
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Languages: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching French and Spanish shine through. Share specific examples of how you've inspired students in the past and how you plan to continue doing so at Downsend.
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As the Head of MFL, you'll be leading a department, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Talk about any previous roles where you've successfully managed a team or driven improvements in teaching standards.
Tailor Your Application: Make your application stand out by tailoring it to Downsend's vision and values. Mention how your approach aligns with their innovative and forward-thinking ethos, and how you can contribute to shaping incredible people.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website for a smoother process. This way, you can ensure that your application reaches us quickly and efficiently, allowing us to review your credentials without delay.
How to prepare for a job interview at Cognita Schools
✨Know Your Languages
Brush up on your French and Spanish before the interview. Be ready to discuss your teaching methods and how you engage students in these languages. Think about specific examples of lessons that have worked well for you.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience leading a department or team. Highlight any initiatives you've implemented that improved student outcomes or enhanced the MFL curriculum. They’ll want to see your vision for the role.
✨Embrace Innovation
Since Downsend values creativity and innovation, think of ways you can incorporate technology or new teaching strategies into your lessons. Be ready to share ideas on how to make language learning exciting and relevant for students.
✨Cultural Engagement Matters
Discuss how you promote cultural understanding through language learning. Share any co-curricular activities you've organised that celebrate the cultures of French and Spanish-speaking countries. This shows your commitment to a holistic education.