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- Tasks: Lead a passionate team in delivering exceptional German language education from Year 7 to Year 13.
- Company: Join a vibrant international school with a diverse student body and supportive staff.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, free meals during term-time, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' language skills and cultural understanding in a dynamic environment.
- Qualifications: Outstanding knowledge of German language and culture, with strong teaching and leadership skills.
- Other info: Small class sizes foster effective language learning and student engagement.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 131056 £ per year.
We are seeking an experienced teacher with outstanding knowledge of German language and culture, capable of delivering the highest standards of teaching and learning through exceptional classroom practice. The successful candidate will lead a small but highly motivated team of MFL and EAL teachers and will take responsibility for the German teaching in the school from Year 7 to Year 13 in the dedicated German classroom.
French (Years 7-9) and German (Year 9) are taught as compulsory subjects in the curriculum. They are options at GCSE and A Level. While a modern language is not a core subject at GCSE, the uptake at Year 10 is consistently strong. The two languages are not set against each other, allowing some students to take both at GCSE if they wish and in the Sixth Form too. The Edexcel specifications at GCSE and AQA at A Level serve our students well, offering academic rigour and an overview of the culture of the target language countries.
The department has high expectations and considers that a methodical acquisition of grammar and vocabulary, combined with much speaking and listening, is essential in training successful linguists. The department has a history of success with students of all abilities, partly due to our small class sizes which are ideal for language teaching. This is an exceptional opportunity to teach in a truly international school (approximately half the students come from abroad) with creative and enquiring students who understand and appreciate each others’ languages and cultures. With small classes, articulate students and a friendly staff body, it offers the ideal environment for a passionate and energetic linguist to really make their mark.
TERMS AND CONDITIONS
This is a full-time post to start in September 2026. Competitive salary according to the candidate’s experience. Children of staff are not eligible to be educated at the School except through the normal admissions and audition process. All members of staff are expected to contribute fully to the School’s extra-curricular and/or boarding provision. Lunch and supper (when there is an evening event) can be taken free of charge at school during term-time.
HOW TO APPLY
Candidates wishing to apply should submit a letter to the Principal as soon as possible outlining your motivations for applying and why you believe that you meet the requirements of the role as expressed in this job pack. Please do not send a separate curriculum vitae as these will not be accepted. The closing date for applications is Sunday 19th April 2026. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to the School where you will have the opportunity to meet key staff and to lead a short lesson. Interviews will explore your vision for the future of MFL in the School, your subject knowledge, leadership and pastoral experience and your ability to relate appropriately to students.
The Purcell School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment.
Specific responsibilities are as follows:
- To create engaging, rigorous and enriching schemes of work, ensuring they are robust and effective and meet the needs of all students.
- To ensure that all lessons within the department are well-planned; lessons should be tailored to meet the learning requirements of the class with sufficient opportunities for group and individual challenges.
- To teach all year groups a range of language related enrichment activities.
- To lead the MFL team; giving a clear vision and direction to the work, identifying key areas for improvements and planning appropriate actions to meet them.
- To ensure that staff have access to all relevant materials to carry out these tasks.
- To organise a framework for administrative tasks. This includes both day to day administrative and MFL specific tasks.
- To manage both the people and resources associated with the department.
- To ensure that risk assessments are carried out in line with the School’s Health and Safety Policy.
- To remain fully informed about national and local developments in the subject area as well as keeping abreast of wider educational issues.
- To develop the departmental Teaching and Learning action plan.
- To ensure that examination administration is carried out and that all students are prepared for external examinations at GCSE and A Level with a range of suitable internal mock exams/assessments administered to help raise student outcomes.
- To manage the departmental budget.
Head of Modern Foreign Languages (German Specialism) in Bushey employer: PURCELL SCHOOL
Contact Detail:
PURCELL SCHOOL Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Modern Foreign Languages (German Specialism) in Bushey
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school culture! Before your interview, do a bit of research on the school’s values and ethos. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for that demo lesson! Since you'll be leading a short lesson during the interview, think about how you can showcase your teaching style and engage the students. Make it interactive and fun – remember, they want to see your passion for languages!
✨Tip Number 3
Show off your leadership skills! Be ready to discuss how you plan to lead the MFL team and improve the department. Share specific examples from your past experiences where you've successfully managed a team or implemented new strategies.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to ask questions! At the end of your interview, have a few thoughtful questions prepared. This shows your enthusiasm and helps you gauge if the school is the right fit for you. Plus, it gives you a chance to learn more about their expectations.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Modern Foreign Languages (German Specialism) in Bushey
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Languages: When writing your application, let your love for the German language and culture shine through. We want to see how your enthusiasm can inspire students and contribute to our vibrant MFL department.
Tailor Your Letter: Make sure to customise your application letter to reflect the specific requirements of the role. Highlight your experience in leading teams and your approach to teaching languages, as this will show us you’re the right fit for our school.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application letter focused and to the point. We appreciate clarity, so make sure you articulate your motivations and qualifications without unnecessary fluff. This helps us see your key strengths quickly!
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. We can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at PURCELL SCHOOL
✨Know Your Subject Inside Out
As a candidate for the Head of Modern Foreign Languages, it's crucial to demonstrate your deep understanding of German language and culture. Brush up on key grammar points, cultural references, and current trends in language education. Be prepared to discuss how you would implement engaging teaching methods that cater to diverse learning styles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
You'll be leading a small team, so highlight your leadership experience during the interview. Share specific examples of how you've motivated and developed teachers in the past. Discuss your vision for the MFL department and how you plan to inspire both staff and students to achieve high standards.
✨Engage with the School's Ethos
Familiarise yourself with the school's commitment to internationalism and cultural appreciation. During the interview, express how you can contribute to this ethos through your teaching and extracurricular activities. Mention any previous experiences working in diverse environments or with international students.
✨Prepare a Sample Lesson
Since you'll be leading a short lesson as part of the interview process, make sure to prepare a dynamic and interactive lesson plan. Focus on incorporating speaking and listening activities that align with the school's curriculum. This will not only showcase your teaching style but also your ability to engage students effectively.