Primary Teacher (Maternity Cover) February - May 2025

Alma Forest School is seeking a Primary Classroom Teacher for a maternity cover position from February to May 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity to join an innovative school in southern Spain. The specific age group for this role is yet to be finalized, but it is likely to be a Grade 2 class with students starting the year at around seven years old.

We understand the unique challenges of a short-term post and encourage applications from candidates with diverse backgrounds. However, experience working with children is essential. Due to the temporary nature of the position, we can only consider candidates who are already residing in the local area.

There is potential for this position to lead to permanent employment commencing in September 2025. In that case, ideally for a candidate that would be comfortable teaching at the 11-14 age range going forward. 

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:

• enjoys spending time with children (Would you sit with your students to eat lunch if you did not have to?)
• 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 Explorations often involve subject knowledge well beyond what might usually be found on a Primary 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 Primary School Curriculum Outline before applying.

► Apply Here: https://forms.gle/nCzSdvpGPK5NDza36 

The application deadline is December 15th, 2024. 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!