Head of Chinese, TLR3 (Starting Aug 2025) - Island School

Island School is looking to appoint a full-time Head of Chinese teacher to start in August 2025 at our recently relocated new campus located at Mid-levels, Hong Kong. The teacher will carry the teaching and learning responsibilities (TLR3) as Deputy Head of Languages within the Languages Faculty.

Island School is a highly successful IB secondary school located in the heart of Hong Kong. Over 1300 students aged 11 to 18 study an innovative and exciting curriculum combining our self-designed courses, the MYP, IGCSE, and IB programs. 

This role encompasses curriculum development, teaching excellence, and fostering a passion for the Chinese language and culture among students. The Head of Chinese will oversee the delivery of IGCSE and IB courses in Mandarin and contribute to the overall development of the language faculty. 

All TLR responsibility holders have a teaching responsibility and are layered on top of a main-scale teacher’s job description. 

Responsibilities

• Curriculum: Design, implement, and manage a comprehensive Chinese language curriculum that aligns with IB standards and school objectives. Work collaboratively with the IB coordinators and ESF centre
• Teaching and Learning: Drive and sustain a culture of excellence and innovation in Chinese language teaching and ensure these standards are upheld within the department
• Foster an environment that encourages student participation, critical thinking, and a love for the language and culture
• Monitor and evaluate student progress, providing timely feedback and support to enhance learning outcomes
• Assessment and Reporting: Develop and implement effective assessment strategies to monitor student progress and provide constructive feedback to students and parents
• Community Engagement: Collaborate with other departments, parents, and the wider community, including other ESF secondary schools and the ESF Centre, to foster Chinese language learning and development
• Culture Promotion: Organize and promote cultural events and activities that celebrate the Chinese language and culture within the school community
• Department Management: Manage the department budget, resources, and facilities, ensuring a well-equipped and effective learning environment

Requirements

• Bachelor’s Degree in Education, or
• Bachelor’s Degree in any subject and a PGCE (Postgraduate Certificate of Education) or equivalent
• Fluency in Mandarin and a strong understanding of Chinese culture
• Proven experience in teaching Chinese at the secondary level within a recognized educational organization, preferably within an IB school setting
• Previous leadership experience in an educational setting is preferred
• Strong understanding of current pedagogy, with excellent practice exemplified in own teaching
• Strong leadership and organizational skills with the accountability of professional reflection and development (PRD) within the team
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills and be able to work effectively as part of a team
• Proficient and experienced in utilizing data analysis and learning technologies
• Commitment to contribute to the extra-curricular activities of the school
• Commitment to fostering an active and creative learning environment
• Commitment to professional development and collaboration across the school

Teaching in Hong Kong

We offer a very attractive salary and benefits package to ensure that ESF recruits and retains the highest calibre teachers. Our teachers need well-developed information and communication technology skills and will be expected to play a full role in pastoral work as well as to be totally committed to supporting the extra-curricular activities offered by their school.

Terms and conditions of an ESF primary/secondary teacher for the 2024-25 school year can be found here.

Please visit Our School Website to learn more about the Island School.

Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis and offers may be extended prior to the job closing date.

By applying for this position, your application may be considered for other opportunities (senior-level roles, head of department, etc.) within ESF.

ESF is an Equal Opportunities Employer

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is fully committed to providing equal employment opportunities. ESF will not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, gender, marital status, sexual orientation, gender identity, pregnancy, national origin, religion, veteran status, physical or mental disability, genetic information, creed, citizenship or any other status protected by local laws or regulations.

Personal data provided by job applicants will be used strictly in accordance with the ESF's Personal Data Policy, a copy of which will be provided upon request.

Aligned with the recommendations of the International Task Force on Child Protection, we hold ourselves to a high standard of effective recruiting practices with specific attention to child protection.

About Us

The English Schools Foundation (ESF) is the largest English-medium international school organisation in Hong Kong. Our 22 schools and comprehensive programme of extra-curricular activities bring out the best in every student through a personalised approach to learning and by inspiring curious minds.

There are over 18,000 students from 75 different nationalities in ESF kindergartens, primary, secondary and all-through schools. 

www.esf.edu.hk

About the Team

At Island School we do something different. Our focus is on igniting a passion for learning in every student. Teaching students facts and figures is no longer enough for them to succeed once they enter higher education and the workforce. We encourage students to problem solve, question and think creatively with new concepts and ideas. Students are encouraged to become resourceful, adaptable and confident learners.

Our academic record is excellent with students going on to many of the foremost universities and colleges in the world. You will find details of the curriculum and qualifications on offer on our website. In the senior years students can choose to study IB Diploma, IB Careers and BTEC courses. Island School prepares students for these qualifications with a broad-based middle school curriculum including IGCSEs and a wide range of exciting options in our unique Futures curriculum. Our aim is to help students develop a passion for learning in a range of areas, whether it be law or robotics and coding or music production.

http://island.edu.hk