At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead language learning for Years 1-6 and teach Years 7 & 8.
- Company: Sutton Valence School, a prestigious co-educational institution in Kent.
- Benefits: Healthcare membership, fitness facilities, fee remission, free meals, and more!
- Why this job: Inspire young minds to love languages and shape their future.
- Qualifications: Qualified MFL teacher with a passion for engaging lessons.
- Other info: Join a supportive community dedicated to holistic education.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are looking for a well-qualified and enthusiastic MFL teacher from September 2026 to lead the learning of languages in the Prep School (Years 1 to 6) and to teach Years 7 & 8 in the Senior School. They will lead language learning in the Prep School, reporting to the Assistant Head (Academic), and will also report into the MFL Head of Department in the Senior School relating to the Year 7 & 8 teaching. The ideal candidate will deliver engaging lessons to encourage the pupils to develop a love of languages from Key Stage 1 up to Key Stage 3, so that they might continue studying languages to GCSE level and beyond. We aim to build confidence by providing opportunities to be immersed in languages from an early age, and thereby develop their oral, aural and written skills. As the children grow older and develop more confidence, there will be more focus on comprehension and developing vocabulary and cultural knowledge.
Responsibilities
- Lead language learning in the Prep School (Years 1–6).
- Teach Years 7 & 8 in the Senior School.
- Report to the Assistant Head (Academic) and the MFL Head of Department in the Senior School.
- Deliver engaging lessons to develop pupils’ love of languages from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 3, with a progression toward GCSE level and beyond.
- Foster confidence through immersion in languages and develop oral, aural, written skills, vocabulary and cultural knowledge.
About us
Sutton Valence School is a leading co-educational boarding and day school educating more than 886 pupils aged 2-18 years. Set in the heart of Kent, we boast beautiful surroundings that have been inspiring pupils since 1576. We enjoy an excellent reputation for providing a truly holistic education for our pupils, reflecting our Christian ethos.
Benefits
- Benenden healthcare membership
- Fitness facilities
- Fee remission
- Free school meals
- Free parking
- EV scheme
- And more!
How to apply
Applications will only be accepted from candidates completing the application form in full. CVs will not be accepted in substitution for completed application forms. Closing date: Thursday 19th February 2026. Please note: we reserve the right to interview and appoint prior to the closing date. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service (DBS), and a declaration of medical fitness. It is an offence to apply for this role if the applicant is barred from engaging in regulated activity relevant to children. The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. A copy of the School’s Child Protection policy may be found on the School’s website, which all applicants are expected to read prior to interview. Sutton Valence School is an equal opportunities employer.
Head of Prep School Modern Foreign Languages (teaching Years 1 - 8) employer: Sutton Valence School
Contact Detail:
Sutton Valence School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Prep School Modern Foreign Languages (teaching Years 1 - 8)
✨Tip Number 1
Get to know the school! Research Sutton Valence School and its ethos. Understanding their values will help you tailor your approach during interviews and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare engaging lesson ideas! Since the role involves delivering captivating lessons, think about creative ways to teach languages that could inspire students. Bring these ideas to the interview to showcase your teaching style.
✨Tip Number 3
Network with current or former staff! If you can, reach out to people who have worked at Sutton Valence School. They can provide insider tips on what the school values in its teachers and how to stand out during the hiring process.
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! Make sure to fill out the application form completely and accurately. This is your chance to shine, so take your time and ensure everything reflects your passion for teaching languages.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Prep School Modern Foreign Languages (teaching Years 1 - 8)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Read the Job Description Carefully: Before you start your application, take a good look at the job description. We want to see how you can fit into our vision for language learning, so make sure you understand what we're looking for in a candidate.
Tailor Your Application: Don’t just send a generic application! We love it when candidates personalise their applications to reflect their passion for teaching languages. Highlight your relevant experience and how it aligns with our goals at Sutton Valence School.
Showcase Your Teaching Style: We’re all about engaging lessons that spark a love for languages. Use your application to give us a glimpse of your teaching style and how you plan to inspire our pupils from Key Stage 1 to Key Stage 3.
Apply Through Our Website: Remember, we only accept applications through our website, so make sure you fill out the application form in full. It’s super easy, and we can’t wait to hear from you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Sutton Valence School
✨Know Your Curriculum
Familiarise yourself with the curriculum for Years 1 to 8, especially focusing on how language learning progresses. Be ready to discuss specific strategies you would use to engage students and foster their love for languages.
✨Showcase Your Passion
During the interview, let your enthusiasm for teaching languages shine through. Share personal anecdotes or experiences that highlight your commitment to language education and how you've inspired students in the past.
✨Prepare Engaging Lesson Ideas
Think of creative lesson plans that incorporate cultural knowledge and immersive experiences. Be prepared to present a sample lesson or activity that demonstrates how you would make language learning fun and effective.
✨Understand the School's Ethos
Research Sutton Valence School’s values and ethos, particularly its commitment to holistic education. Be ready to explain how your teaching philosophy aligns with their mission and how you can contribute to their community.