Teacher of Spanish (with French) Maternity Cover

From October 2024 we seek to appoint a Teacher of Spanish (up to GCSE Level) who must also be able to teach French (up to at least Key Stage 3). The role is a temporary position covering maternity leave until around July 2025 (subject to change). The role can be full time, or we are flexible and can accommodate 0.8.

 The Modern Foreign Languages department has a strong team approach, and we are looking for an enthusiastic and well-qualified linguist who will contribute to the overall strength and profile of Modern Foreign Languages at Birkdale, working closely with the Head of MFL, other MFL Teachers and our Language Assistants.

 Applications are welcomed from newly qualified or more experienced teachers. 

The Modern Foreign Languages Department (MFL) is a lively, forward-looking and successful department. It consists of six committed staff, plus native level French, German and Spanish language assistants. Housed in a modern suite of rooms, with classrooms, a Foreign Language Assistants' teaching room, two staff workrooms (with networked computers) and a resources room. The department is well resourced, having interactive whiteboards in all classrooms, a sixth form Minilab as well as a full class-size ICT room. All pupils are also provided with Chrome books.

 Pupils who attend our preparatory school, are taught French and Spanish co-currently from the age of four. In the last two years, they study these languages for two periods per week. Pupils are taught in mixed-ability tutor groups and the emphasis is on creating a positive attitude towards language learning. There is a focus on good pronunciation and confidence in the language and as well as pupil enjoyment and developing language-learning skills. Regular contact is maintained between the Senior and Prep Schools to ensure a smooth transition in the MFL curriculum and to pass on information regarding both the effort and attainment of pupils in their final year at the Prep School.

 Pupils from the other main feeder schools of Birkdale will also normally have been taught some French for between two and four years either as a single lesson per week or in some cases for up to three lessons per week, though in a number of cases pupils come to the Senior School with no prior experience of French. The diversity of prior experience is taken careful account of in the planning of lessons especially in S1 (Y7).

 Apart from a separate group for beginners of French, pupils are initially taught in mixed ability groups. Setting is introduced from the start of the Easter term, following the November examinations when common speaking, listening, reading and writing tests are taken. In Year S2 (Y8), all take a half-year taster course in German and Spanish in addition to continuing with French in setted groups. Pupils then opt to continue with one or two languages, with some taking two languages. French, German and Spanish are available to GCSE and AS/A2 level (AQA) and pupils consistently achieve good grades.

Almost all pupils achieve a level 4 or above in a modern language at GCSE. The department has an excellent track record in students gaining excellent grades with a good proportion achieving grades 8-9 at GCSE level. At A-Level the trend continues with all students typically achieving between grades A*-C.

Closing date for applications –Wednesday 26th June 2024 (12:00 noon)

Interviews – w/c Monday 1st July 2024

Please visit our website for an application form.

Email your application to: Peter Harris, Head at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk by the closing date Please state if you are applying to work full time or part time. If you wish to apply for part time, please state the days you ideally wish to work.

Applicants who do not provide a Covering Letter and Application Form as stipulated will unfortunately not be considered. If you have any difficulties in providing this, please do not hesitate to contact the HR team at Recruit@birkdaleschool.org.uk

Pre-employment checks:

The Birkdale Family of Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of our children and young people. All applicants must be willing to undergo the relevant pre-employment checks relevant to the role.

Current legislation applying to this post includes the The Rehabilitation of Offenders Act 1974 (Exceptions) (Amendment) (England and Wales) Order 2008 and the Asylum & Immigration Act 1996. Therefore, the successful candidate will be required to prove their eligibility to work in the UK and undergo appropriate criminal record checks, including an application for an Enhanced Disclosure from the Disclosure and Barring Service.  Details of the documentation etc needed in connection with all the above requirements will be sent to the shortlisted candidates. Prior to taking up appointment, we will then request a declaration about medical fitness, and proof of qualifications from the successful candidate. 

Under the guidance set by KCSiE 2022 Birkdale School will conduct an online search for all shortlisted candidates.

Equal Opportunities Statement:

At the Birkdale Family of Schools, we strive to create a supportive and nurturing environment for all individuals. We are dedicated to promoting equality and diversity, providing a level playing field for all of our staff and students. We aim to foster an inclusive culture, where diversity is celebrated and where everyone feels empowered, and encouraged to reach their full potential. We are stronger together.