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- Tasks: Lead and manage the academic programme at a summer centre, ensuring high-quality EFL lessons.
- Company: Join MLA Move Language Ahead, a diverse and inclusive organisation dedicated to student welfare.
- Benefits: Earn £650-£680 weekly, with full board, lodging, and paid training included.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' learning while enjoying a vibrant summer experience.
- Qualifications: Must have teaching qualifications and experience with teenagers; UK work eligibility required.
- Other info: Dynamic role with opportunities for professional development and teamwork.
Position Overview
Director of Studies (DoS) is a senior, residential, full‑time role based in the United Kingdom (London, Uxbridge, Reading, Guildford, Worcester, Dover, Oxford, Edinburgh). The DoS leads and manages the academic life of a summer centre from 27 June to 30 July 2026, with the possibility of extension to mid‑August in some locations. The role is 6 days per week (Monday to Saturday) and includes full board and accommodation. The DoS reports directly to the Academic Manager and works closely with the Centre Director, Group Leaders and the Academic Team.
Responsibilities
- Plan, deliver and monitor the academic programme, ensuring high quality Task‑Based EFL lessons.
- Allocate students to classes, adjust groupings and manage levels and materials.
- Organise educator inductions, CPD sessions and ongoing support for teachers and Group Leaders.
- Develop and maintain the timetable, student admissions, placement tests and class set‑up.
- Oversee all academic records on MLA Boards, ensuring timely completion of lessons, reports and assessment tools.
- Provide daily academic leadership, including meetings with staff, and manage performance and professional development plans.
- Ensure compliance with MLA safeguarding, welfare and equality policies; report any concerns promptly.
- Represent MLA values and procedures to staff, students and external stakeholders.
- Collaborate with the Centre Director, Academic Manager and Activity Manager to support the overall running of the centre.
- Maintain teaching resources, equipment and classroom facilities, ensuring cleanliness and safety.
- Support pastoral care and extracurricular activities where required, attending to the wellbeing of students.
- Assist in any additional duties that may arise during a busy summer centre schedule.
Qualifications
Essential
- UK passport or right to work in the UK – valid DBS (England & Wales) or PVG (Scotland) required (international candidates must provide a suitable criminal record check).
- At least two references confirming suitability to work with students under 18.
- Experience teaching EFL to teenagers and proficiency in IT.
- A recognised teacher qualification such as DELTA, Trinity DITESOL, MA TESOL, PGCE, or a TEFL Level 5 certificate (CELTA/Trinity CertTESOL accepted).
- Completed postgraduate teaching training with a supervised practice component where applicable.
Desirable
- Previous summer school teaching or managerial experience in the UK or Ireland.
- Teacher management, induction or training experience.
- Enhanced DBS/PVG or similar records.
- First Aid qualification.
Key Skills & Attributes
- Strong communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
- Commitment to continuous professional development and a high standard of professional behaviour.
- Flexibility, resilience and the ability to work under pressure, including during late hours.
- Team‑player attitude and the capacity to motivate colleagues.
- Positive, culturally aware approach to student engagement and group leadership.
- Supportive of IT use and readiness to contribute to curriculum improvement.
Schedule
Residential DoS contracts are 6‑day weeks with one 24‑hour break per week, based on a maximum of 42 working hours over a 7‑day period. While pastoral duties are secondary, any extra staff needs may require relocation, with travel expenses reimbursed.
Compensation
Weekly rate of GBP 650 to GBP 680, plus 12.07% holiday pay (approximately £728.45 to £762). Residential rates include full board and lodging; paid training and induction are provided.
Safeguarding & Welfare
MLA is committed to the welfare and safeguarding of children, young people and adults at risk. All students are expected to feel safe within all programme areas. The DoS must uphold safeguarding policies, report any welfare concerns promptly, and ensure adherence to the MLA Safeguarding Policy.
EEO Statement
MLA Move Language Ahead is an equal opportunity employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, gender, marital status, pregnancy or maternity leave, race (including ethnic or national origin nationality and colour), disability, sexual orientation or expression, religion, beliefs or any other non‑job‑related criteria.
UK 2026 Director of Studies Reading employer: MLA
Contact Detail:
MLA Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land UK 2026 Director of Studies Reading
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have worked in summer schools or similar roles. A friendly chat can lead to insider info about job openings and even recommendations.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the organisation and its values. Understand what makes them tick and be ready to discuss how your experience aligns with their mission. This shows you’re genuinely interested and not just another candidate.
✨Tip Number 3
Don’t underestimate the power of a follow-up! After an interview, drop a quick thank-you email to express your appreciation for the opportunity. It keeps you on their radar and shows your enthusiasm for the role.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website for the best chance at landing that DoS position! We love seeing applications directly from candidates who are keen to join our team. Plus, it’s a great way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves.
We think you need these skills to ace UK 2026 Director of Studies Reading
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the DoS role. Highlight your relevant experience in teaching EFL to teenagers and any managerial roles you've held. We want to see how your skills align with what we're looking for!
Show Off Your Qualifications: Don’t forget to mention your teaching qualifications, like DELTA or CELTA, and any additional training you've completed. This is crucial for us to understand your background and expertise in the field.
Be Clear and Concise: When writing your application, keep it straightforward and to the point. Use clear language and avoid jargon. We appreciate a well-structured application that makes it easy for us to see your strengths.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for the role. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at MLA
✨Know Your Academic Stuff
Make sure you brush up on your knowledge of Task-Based EFL lessons and how to manage an academic programme. Be ready to discuss your teaching philosophy and how you would implement it in a summer centre setting.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a Director of Studies, you'll be leading a team. Prepare examples of how you've successfully managed educators or teams in the past. Highlight your experience with teacher inductions and professional development.
✨Understand Safeguarding Policies
Familiarise yourself with safeguarding policies and be prepared to discuss how you would ensure the welfare of students. This is crucial, so showing that you take it seriously will set you apart.
✨Be Ready for Scenario Questions
Expect questions about handling challenging situations, such as managing diverse student needs or resolving conflicts among staff. Think through some scenarios in advance and how you would approach them.
