Primary Homeroom Teacher

Introduction

The Inter-Community School Zurich (ICS) is the longest-established international school in the Greater Zurich Area, proudly serving as an IB World School. Nestled in the picturesque village of Zumikon near a nature reserve and just 10 km from Zurich’s old town, ICS has fostered a vibrant community for over 60 years, committed to supporting students’ individual growth, fostering collaboration, and celebrating diversity.

Primary School Teachers at ICS are responsible for creating a rich, inquiry-based environment for our younger students, who are learning to thrive away from family in a nurturing school community. Learning through experience and personal growth through friendships and social connections are crucial in those early years. At ICS, we provide inclusive learning based on individual developmental needs and our teachers need to have a good understanding of various learning challenges. The Teacher creates a supportive classroom community and designs learning activities to develop the understanding, skills, attitudes, and knowledge identified in the curriculum. Establishing warm but professional relationships with the parents and working closely with colleagues from other departments is also an important part of our Primary School Teachers’ commitment to ICS. 

Specific Responsibilities

Job Summary

The Primary Homeroom Teacher is responsible for creating a rich, inquiry-based learning environment that promotes student learning and optimum personal growth, based on individual developmental needs. He or she establishes an effective classroom community and designs learning activities to develop the understanding, skills, attitudes, and knowledge identified in the curriculum. The Homeroom Teacher establishes good relationships with parents and works closely with colleagues to develop an efficient academic and pastoral team.

Learning and Teaching

• Design and maintain an engaging, inquiry-based classroom environment that supports each child’s social, cognitive, and physical development.
• Plan and lead play-based and inquiry-driven lessons that support students’ development in language, motor skills, and personal growth.
• Provide individualized learning experiences that respect each student’s interests, readiness, and cultural background.
• Foster curiosity and self-directed learning by sourcing, adapting, and creating innovative materials.
• Collaborate with the teaching team to design transdisciplinary units that incorporate play, problem-solving, and hands-on learning.
• Recognize and respond to diverse learning needs by liaising with the Counsellor, Learning Support, and other staff as needed.
• Actively support student well-being, ensuring all children feel valued and emotionally safe.

Learning Community

• Develop strong relationships within the teaching team, including Specialists, Teaching Assistants, and other Homeroom Teachers.
• Engage and maintain positive partnerships with families, providing updates on student progress and development.
• Actively contribute to the extracurricular program and assist in organizing field trips.
• Support a pro-social, caring classroom environment where every child is welcomed and valued.
• Attend conferences with parents and students, providing clear feedback on growth and learning goals.

 Why Join ICS?

• Community: Be a part of a school with over six decades of commitment to a collaborative, mission-driven environment.
• Professional Growth: Enjoy opportunities for personal and professional development in a leading IB World School.
• Compensation: A competitive salary and benefits that reflect the significance of this role.
• In beautiful Switzerland, known for its safety, quality of life, and rich cultural experiences.

The successful candidate will have:

• Education: BA/BSc in Early Childhood Education or equivalent, with valid teaching qualifications.
• Experience: At least 2 years of recent teaching experience, ideally in an international school.
• Specializations: Knowledge of PYP and/or Reggio Emilia practices preferred; experience with Forest School or Outdoor Education a plus.
• Skills: Excellent classroom management, strong organizational skills, and proficiency in integrating technology into learning.
• Personal Attributes: Adaptive, empathetic, imaginative, collaborative, mission-driven, and student-centered.
• Language: Native level English speaker preferred.

Terms and Conditions

The initial contract is for three years and is renewable.

Applications should be addressed to:

Interested candidates should apply via our website with a full letter of application, a statement of personal educational philosophy, a detailed resume/curriculum vitae, and a list of three referees (name & email address). The Head of School reserves the right to apply directly to the writers of open testimonials for confidential statements.

Applications should be addressed in PDF format.

Join ICS and be part of a dedicated team supporting student growth, resilience, and academic success in a welcoming, inclusive environment!

We are looking forward to receiving your application.