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- Tasks: Lead and inspire the Modern Foreign Languages department, teaching French and Spanish.
- Company: Join Downsend School, an innovative independent school with a focus on future-ready education.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, pension scheme, free lunches, and ongoing professional development.
- Other info: Be part of a diverse community committed to excellence and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Shape young minds and promote a love for languages in a vibrant learning 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 Surrey employer: Cognita Schools
Contact Detail:
Cognita Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of MFL in Surrey
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, attend relevant events, and connect with fellow educators on platforms like LinkedIn. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school and its ethos. Understand Downsend's vision and how you can contribute to their innovative approach. Tailor your responses to highlight your experience in leading MFL and engaging students in creative ways.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your teaching style! If possible, offer to conduct a demo lesson or share examples of your lesson plans. This gives you a chance to demonstrate your dynamic approach to language teaching and how you inspire students.
✨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 at Downsend and contributing to their vibrant MFL department.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of MFL in Surrey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Languages: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching French and Spanish shine through. We want to see how you inspire students and create engaging lessons that make languages come alive!
Highlight Your Leadership Skills: As the Head of MFL, you'll be leading a department, so make sure to showcase your leadership experience. Tell us about times you've successfully managed a team or driven improvements in teaching and learning.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! Take the time to tailor your CV and cover letter to reflect the values and vision of Downsend School. Show us how you align with our innovative approach and commitment to excellence.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to apply directly through our website. It’s the best way to ensure your application gets to us quickly and efficiently. Plus, it shows you’re keen on joining our community!
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 inspired your pupils.
✨Show Your Leadership Skills
Prepare to talk about your experience leading a department or team. Highlight any initiatives you've implemented that improved teaching standards or student engagement. They want to see your vision for the MFL department!
✨Emphasise Collaboration
Since the role involves working closely with the Executive Head and other Heads of School, be ready to share examples of successful collaborations. Discuss how you’ve worked with colleagues to enhance the curriculum or co-curricular activities.
✨Align with Their Vision
Familiarise yourself with Downsend's innovative approach to education. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to their mission of inspiring students and promoting a linguistic and cultural ethos within the school.