At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the French department and inspire students to excel in language learning.
- Company: High-achieving secondary school in East London with a collaborative MFL department.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, professional development, and opportunities for educational excursions.
- Other info: Supportive environment with high expectations and excellent career growth opportunities.
- Why this job: Make a real impact on students' language skills and foster a love for French.
- Qualifications: QTS, degree in French, and proven teaching experience at GCSE and A-level.
The predicted salary is between 37872 - 56154 € per year.
Location: Waltham Forest
Start Date: 1 September 2026
Salary: £37,872 - £56,154
Contract: Permanent
Are you an experienced French Teacher looking to step up into a Head of French position in a successful MFL Department? Do you set high expectations for your students, demonstrate confident classroom presence, and engage students across all key stages? Are you a French subject specialist and curriculum expert, able to lead the subject effectively, supporting colleagues to deliver excellent lessons?
TeacherActive are proud to be working with this high achieving 11-18 secondary school in East London; they are seeking a knowledgeable and confident French Teacher to step up into a Head of French post from September. The school is looking for an outstanding teacher with a proven record of results across GCSE and A-level French, as well as someone who engages all students in KS3.
In this role, the Head of French will teach across the full French curriculum, with experience delivering the AQA exam content at GCSE and A-level highly beneficial. The MFL department is collaborative and successful; the high-quality teaching is responsible for some of the best results in the school. Teachers and leaders at this school set high expectations for both staff and students, promoting academic excellence across all subjects and maintaining good behaviour. Educational excursions and trips are encouraged to supplement in-class learning with practical and immersive experiences. Though behaviour can be challenging, the school employs a clear behaviour policy with an emphasis on positive reinforcement and community.
To be considered for this role, you will:
- Demonstrate excellent subject knowledge and confident classroom presence
- Hold QTS (Qualified Teacher Status) and have completed your ECT or NQT induction
- Have a degree and PGCE in French
- Foster positive relationships with your students, setting and maintaining high expectations
- Demonstrate high standards of professionalism
- Communicate clearly and confidently, verbally and in writing
- Hold UK Right to Work
Equal Opportunities Statement: TeacherActive is an equal opportunities employer and operates as an Employment Business and Employment Agency in providing temporary, contract and permanent job seeking services.
Safeguarding and DBS Compliance: Registration may involve an enhanced DBS check, ID checks and the supply of good professional references, depending on the role. We are committed to safeguarding and compliance across all placements.
Head of French. Job in London Education & Training Jobs employer: TeacherActive
Join a high-achieving secondary school in Waltham Forest as the Head of French, where you will be part of a collaborative and successful MFL department. The school fosters a culture of academic excellence, offering opportunities for professional growth through supportive leadership and engaging educational excursions. With a commitment to positive reinforcement and community, this role provides a rewarding environment for passionate educators looking to make a meaningful impact.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of French. Job in London Education & Training Jobs
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to fellow educators, attend local teaching events, and connect with people in the MFL community. You never know who might have the inside scoop on job openings or can put in a good word for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Show off your skills! Prepare a mini-lesson or a presentation that highlights your teaching style and subject expertise. This can really impress during interviews and give them a taste of what you bring to the table.
✨Tip Number 3
Be proactive! Don’t just wait for job postings to pop up. Reach out directly to schools you’re interested in and express your enthusiasm for potential opportunities. A little initiative can go a long way!
✨Tip Number 4
Apply through our website! We’ve got loads of resources and support to help you land that Head of French role. Plus, it’s super easy to keep track of your applications and get updates directly from us.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of French. Job in London Education & Training Jobs
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV highlights your experience in teaching French and any leadership roles you've had. We want to see how you’ve set high expectations and engaged students, so don’t hold back on those achievements!
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to explain why you're the perfect fit for the Head of French role. Share your passion for the subject and how you plan to lead the MFL department to success.
Showcase Your Teaching Style:In your application, give us a glimpse of your teaching style. Mention any innovative methods or resources you use to engage students across all key stages. We love creativity and enthusiasm!
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application 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 TeacherActive
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you’re well-versed in the French curriculum, especially the AQA exam content for GCSE and A-level. Brush up on key topics and be ready to discuss how you would lead your department in delivering these effectively.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or projects in the past. Highlight your ability to support colleagues and foster a collaborative environment, as this is crucial for a Head of French role.
✨Engage with Behaviour Management Strategies
Familiarise yourself with the school’s behaviour policy and be ready to discuss how you would implement positive reinforcement strategies in your classroom. Share specific examples of how you’ve managed challenging behaviour in the past.
✨Demonstrate Your Passion for French
Let your enthusiasm for the French language and culture shine through. Discuss any educational excursions or immersive experiences you’ve organised, and how they’ve enhanced student engagement and learning.
