Dunottar School - MFL Assistant (French)

The Department

The Modern Foreign Languages Department is a forward thinking department which seeks to enthuse the pupils through outstanding and innovative teaching. Pupils study French and Spanish at Key Stage 3. At GCSE, pupils are able to take at least one language and follow the AQA courses in both French and Spanish. At A Level, the AQA course is followed. The MFL Department is supported by Foreign Language Assistants who work closely with the class teacher in facilitating learning and supporting the pupils with the language skill.

The MFL department runs a number of trips and enrichment opportunities including an established link with a partner schools in Angers, and a desire to be involved in these aspects of the life of the school is essential for the successful candidate. Every year the MFL Department host Languages Week, a diverse celebration of the cultural influences that make learning a new language so exciting. Outside of the classroom, they offer a thriving programme of clubs and activities to enhance pupils love and enjoyment of foreign languages, including Foreign Film Club, Language Leaders and Duolingo Club. The ideal candidate will also play an active role in the extensive and varied co-curricular program, both during the working week and some weekends.

The Role

The MFL Department is seeking a motivated and dynamic Language Assistant to support our students in their GCSE preparation and enhance their conversational skills in French. The ideal candidate will work closely with students preparing for their GCSE exams, helping to build their confidence and fluency in French, and foster a positive and interactive learning environment.

This is a fixed-term, part-time position, providing an opportunity to work with students in an engaging and supportive role from January to May 2025. The role involves supporting four lessons per week (to include a Tuesday and one other day to be agreed) with a primary focus on oral practice and conversation skills, as well as offering targeted support for exam preparation. You will play a key role in assisting students to improve their speaking, listening, and overall language proficiency.

Person Specification 

Professional Qualifications and Skills:

• Ability to perform to a high level
• Native speaker of French

Personal Qualities:

• High levels of personal and professional integrity 
• Commitment to providing outstanding language support  
• An ability to share a passion for French with young people
• Personal warmth, good rapport with pupils, colleagues and parents.  
• Excellent organisational skills
• Appropriate levels of personal presentation.  
• Proficiency in using Word, Excel and email 

Teaching and Learning:

• Enthusiasm for, and an excellent understanding of, the relevant curriculum 
• Evidence of creative and innovative approaches to interacting with students
• Effective use of ICT where appropriate
• Commitment to improving, monitoring and evaluating the effectiveness of interactions with students
• The ability to support students up to Oxbridge is required
• An ability to make all pupils feel valued and involved in your interactions 
• Commitment to ongoing professional development

Philosophy & Ethos:

• A commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people 
• High expectations for pupil attainment, personal development and conduct 
• Commitment to best practice in pastoral support and student welfare 
• Commitment to helping with extra-curricular activities and curriculum enrichment 

This job description is not intended to be all-inclusive and the post holder may perform other duties reasonably required by the Headmaster.  The School reserves the right to make an appointment at any stage during the recruitment process.