At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the Languages department, inspiring students in Spanish and other languages.
- Company: Sydenham High School is a prestigious institution focused on academic excellence and community contribution.
- Benefits: Enjoy competitive salary, professional development, free lunches, and discounts for children at GDST schools.
- Other info: Applications are encouraged early; recruitment is ongoing with a commitment to diversity and safeguarding.
- Why this job: Join a dynamic team, innovate in teaching, and make a real impact on students' lives.
- Qualifications: Candidates should be digitally literate and ideally offer a second language like French or Italian.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Overview
Employer: Blackheath High School - GDST
Location: London, Greater London
Contract Type: Permanent
Hours: Full Time
Salary: Competitive
Posted: 5 May 2026
Start Date: 1 September 2026
Expires: 18 May 2026, 09:00 AM
Responsibilities
- Teach Spanish to students across the full range of KS3, KS4 and KS5 (ages 11–18)
- Lead by example to ensure the smooth and efficient running of the Modern Languages department
- Inspire and motivate a team of subject specialists through your passion for the subject
- Collaborate with the Head of MFL to embed the department vision and development plan
- Contribute to the MFL calendar and coordinate trips, including regular trips to Spain
- Differentiate lessons to meet varying student needs and abilities
Qualifications and Requirements
- Experience as a Spanish teacher with ability to teach across the full KS3–KS5 range
- Strong linguistic skills in Spanish and commitment to developing students’ language proficiency
- Ability to foster a love of Spanish and connect language learning to the global community
About the School
Founded in 1880 by the Girls’ Day School Trust (GDST), Blackheath High School is a selective school for girls aged 3–18. The school is located near the Heath, Greenwich, and Canary Wharf. The Senior School has state-of-the-art facilities following an £18 million redevelopment, ensuring a high standard of education.
Benefits
- Competitive salaries and pay progression
- Access to extensive professional development opportunities
- Training grants for qualifications
- Generous pension schemes
- Free life assurance
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Discount of up to 50% on GDST school fees for children
- Interest-free loans for training, computer purchases, and travel
- Cycle to Work scheme
Application Details
Applications must be received by 18 May 2026 at 9:00 am. Interviews are scheduled for 20 May 2026. Safeguarding and child protection screening are required for successful applicants, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS).
For further details and to apply, please use the application process indicated by the school.
#J-18808-LjbffrHead of Spanish in London employer: GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
Sydenham High School is an outstanding employer that fosters a vibrant and inclusive work culture, encouraging innovation and professional growth within its dynamic Languages department. With access to extensive professional development opportunities, competitive salaries, and a supportive community, staff are empowered to inspire students while enjoying benefits such as interest-free training loans, generous annual leave, and discounts for their children’s education. Located in a thriving educational environment, this role offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on students' lives while being part of a dedicated team committed to excellence.
Contact Details:
GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust) Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Spanish in London
✨Tip Number 1
Familiarise yourself with the AQA syllabus for Spanish and any additional resources used at Sydenham High School. This will not only help you understand the academic expectations but also allow you to discuss how you can contribute to maintaining and enhancing these standards during your interview.
✨Tip Number 2
Showcase your innovative teaching methods and digital literacy skills. Prepare examples of how you've successfully integrated technology into your lessons or how you've adapted your teaching style to engage students, as this aligns with the school's emphasis on dynamic teaching.
✨Tip Number 3
Highlight your experience in leading co-curricular activities related to languages. Discuss any clubs, trips, or events you've organised that promote language learning, as this will demonstrate your commitment to enriching the students' educational experience beyond the classroom.
✨Tip Number 4
Research the school's community and values, particularly their commitment to diversity and inclusion. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to this ethos and support the welfare of all students, which is crucial for a role in a selective school environment.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Spanish in London
Some tips for your application 🫡
Understand the Role:Take time to thoroughly read the job description for the Head of Spanish position. Understand the expectations, responsibilities, and the unique environment at Sydenham High School to tailor your application accordingly.
Highlight Relevant Experience:In your CV and cover letter, emphasise your leadership experience in language education, particularly in Spanish. Mention any innovative teaching methods you've implemented and how they have positively impacted student engagement and success.
Showcase Digital Literacy:Since the role requires digital literacy, include examples of how you have used technology in your teaching. Mention any specific digital platforms or tools you are familiar with that could enhance the learning experience in the Languages department.
Express Commitment to Professional Development:Demonstrate your commitment to ongoing professional development in your application. Mention any relevant training or qualifications you have pursued and how you plan to continue growing as an educator within the school community.
How to prepare for a job interview at GDST (The Girls' Day School Trust)
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Head of Spanish, you'll need to demonstrate your leadership abilities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past, particularly in an educational setting. Highlight your experience in developing curriculum and inspiring both students and staff.
✨Emphasise Your Innovative Teaching Methods
The school values innovation in teaching. Be ready to discuss specific teaching methods you have used to engage students in learning Spanish. Share any creative approaches you've implemented, especially those that incorporate digital tools or co-curricular activities.
✨Understand the School's Values and Community
Familiarise yourself with Sydenham High School's ethos and community involvement. Be prepared to discuss how you can contribute to the school's mission and values, particularly in fostering a diverse and inclusive environment within the Languages department.
✨Prepare for Questions on Professional Development
The role offers extensive professional development opportunities. Think about your own professional growth and be ready to discuss how you plan to continue developing your skills as a leader in education, particularly in language teaching and digital literacy.
