Middle School Generalist

Alma is seeking a Middle School Generalist teacher for a September 2025 start. This is a stellar opportunity to be part of a thriving progressive international school in Spain. The position is both exhilarating and challenging, as the selected candidate will help pioneer our Middle School's journey in its infancy. The ideal candidate will have experience teaching multiple subjects at the Middle School level and possess a solid foundation in leading Numeracy and Literacy instruction for this age bracket. Prospective applicants are strongly advised to review the Curriculum Outline (link provided below) prior to submission. Some aspects of the curriculum will be co-taught by other staff members and especially for some of the more unique aspects of the curriculum you will receive more guidance. As the Middle School evolves, Grade 6-8 will become a mixed-age group co-taught by three teachers. Hence, being able to cooperate with other teachers and a willingness to co-plan and compromise are essential. 

As part of a small team in a growing school, we value flexibility and teamwork. Everyone contributes in diverse and sometimes unexpected ways to ensure the best possible care and support for our students.

Alma Forest is a new and growing school currently home to 110 students aged 3-11 with 20+ nationalities represented amongst the student body. As we grow, we will add one class every year until we reach the end of middle school, age 14. Our maximum class size is 15 and the maximum enrolment at the school will be 150. 

Located on a Spanish Finca just outside of Sotogrande, we have the good fortune to enjoy not only expansive views across to Gibraltar and Morocco but also fields to play on, trees to climb and animals to care for. In addition to this we make good use of the surrounding natural parks and beaches to immerse our learning in the natural environment. 

We value discovery over teaching. Our curriculum explodes boundaries and disciplines so that our students can follow their interests and marvel at all the world has to offer. Co-creating journeys of discovery with our students lies at the heart of what we do. As a community of learners, we value an open and honest exchange of ideas and build relationships based on a shared humanity, with all its flaws, rather than identities centered around being a ‘teacher’ or ‘student’. As a tribe, we make Alma Forest a home where we can all come to know ourselves better and develop a life-long love of learning and discovery.

Internationally accredited and staffed by experienced educators, we ensure that our students are given ample opportunities to develop academically while embarking on these journeys of discovery. Small class sizes and an intentionally small school enable us to support each student individually, allowing them to work at a pace suited to their level of maturity and developmental needs.

We are looking for an educator who:

• is willing to learn how to let children take control and step back as a teacher
• enjoys spending time with children (Would you sit with your students to eat lunch if you did not have to? But would you really?)
• can be vulnerable around children, acknowledge their own flaws and admit mistakes
• loves the outdoors, is able to go on long hikes, can sleep in tents, is comfortable swimming in the ocean and does not mind getting muddy (this is a physically demanding job)
• can interact with children in non-violent and non-coercive ways
• is flexible, embraces chances to go off on tangents and is able to follow the interests of their students
• is willing to learn new things and conduct research as our students’ projects often involve subject knowledge well beyond what might usually be found on a Middle School curriculum
• can laugh at themselves
• is willing to engage with cutting-edge educational philosophy and research
• is a native or near-native speaker of English
• must be able to work in the EU without a visa

An advantage would be if you:

• have worked in progressive or alternative settings before
• have skills that could support a developing maker community
• are interested in outdoor pursuits such as foraging, conservation, camping etc.
• can play the theremin
• have experience in curriculum development

We offer:

• a collaborative working environment with staff from around the world
• an opportunity to help develop a new and growing school
• the chance to play to your strengths as an educator
• continuous professional development provided by the school and external agencies
• decent weather

Be aware that:

• we are not located close to a city so those seeking out all that Barcelona or Madrid have  to offer will not find their home here
• this school suits individuals who show initiative and can work independently within a flexible curriculum

If you feel that Alma Forest School could be your new home, please complete the questionnaire and submit your CV and cover letter, which should include the reasons why you want to work at Alma Forest. If you have any questions, you can contact the Principal at  philipp@almaforestschool.com.

Please make sure to read all the information on the website and in the Middle School Curriculum Outline before applying.

►  Apply Here: https://forms.gle/nCTePcDqPqpgJK899  

The application deadline is February 15th, 2025. We reserve the right to make an appointment before the closing date for applications and will conduct interviews with suitable candidates on a rolling basis.

Alma Forest School is an equal-opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees.

Alma Forest School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Candidates must be prepared to undergo child protection screening and appropriate pre-employment checks.

We look forward to your application!