Pre-school 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 create an inquiry-driven, nurturing environment aligned with the IB PYP programme and inspired by Reggio Emilia practices. They support young students' personal growth, fostering learning through experience, friendships, and social connections. Our inclusive approach tailors learning to individual developmental needs, including those with varied learning challenges. Teachers build supportive classrooms, develop essential skills and knowledge, and maintain warm, professional relationships with parents while collaborating with colleagues across departments.

We teach, motivate, and inspire our children by promoting inclusion, encouraging cooperation, and making sure everyone feels safe and accepted. 

Specific Responsibilities

Job Summary

The Pre-school 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 Pre-school 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 facilitate engaging, developmentally appropriate learning experiences tailored to each child’s needs.
• Support gross and fine motor development, language abilities, and personal/social growth through a blend of play-based and structured activities.
• Foster an inclusive and stimulating classroom that celebrates cultural diversity and encourages student inquiry.
• Collaborate with colleagues, support staff, and families to create a nurturing, student-centred environment.

Learning Community

• Contribute to a positive, prosocial learning environment where students feel valued, emotionally safe, and connected.
• Establish and maintain strong relationships with families, ensuring open communication about student progress and well-being.
• Work closely with the Student Support Team and other professionals to meet individual learning and emotional needs.

Professional Development

• Engage in ongoing learning aligned with the IBO philosophy and ICS’s strategic goals.
• Participate actively in team meetings, school initiatives, and professional growth opportunities.

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:

• Degree in Education (BA/BSc or equivalent) with qualifications in Early Childhood Education.
• At least 2 years of recent, relevant teaching experience; experience in an international school is a plus.
• Familiarity with the IB PYP curriculum and Reggio Emilia approach preferred.
• Proven ability to manage a classroom effectively, with strong organisational and collaborative skills.
• Passion for outdoor education or forest school experience advantageous.
• Native level English speaker preferred, with empathy, patience, and a good sense of humour.

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.