Second in Department - MFL

Cognita is an extraordinary group of diverse yet connected schools, spanning sixteen different countries. We share one common purpose: to create an inspiring world of education that builds self-belief and empowers individuals to succeed. With over 100 schools in Europe, Latin America, Middle East, North America and Asia, we employ 15,000 teaching and support staff in the care and education of more than 75,000 students.

We have an exciting position for a Second in Department to Meoncross School, reporting into the head of department, playing an integral role to provide motivation and inspiration, to lead and develop teachers to recognise and deliver exemplary teaching and learning in the delivery of Modern Foreign Languages. Please note: This is an onsite role. Candidates must be situated in the Fareham, Hampshire area to commute to the school as required.

The purpose of this role is to ensure the effective MFL teaching of all pupils, helping them to develop both inside and outside the classroom. To support the policies and aims of the school and ensure the good social, emotional and physical development of every child. To teach French across all abilities to Key Stage 4, as well as Spanish and/or German at Key Stage 3.

The role will support the Head of Department in ensuring the provision of a broad and balanced curriculum for pupils, in accordance with the aims and values of the school. The role will require the successful candidate to provide motivation and inspiration, to lead and develop teachers to recognise and deliver exemplary teaching and learning in the delivery of Modern Foreign Languages. To secure excellent outcomes in Modern Foreign Languages for all pupils through outstanding provision.

Please note this role is based within Meoncross School based in Fareham, Hampshire

Key Responsibilities will include, but not limited to:

Key accountabilities for 2nd in Department

• Prepare the MFL budget proposal annually and monitor departmental spending
• Order textbooks, digital subscriptions and resources
• Take minutes at MFL meetings and email to department
• Take responsibility for KS3 and KS4 French, developing SOWs and organising internal assessments
•  Contribute to raising the profile of the MFL department in the school community
•  Research and work with pupils on MFL initiatives and enrichment opportunities
• Maintain MFL pages on VLE

Teaching & Learning

•  To promote excellence in teaching and learning to ensure all pupils develop their potential and are equipped for life beyond school, by obtaining high examination results.
• Exemplify in own practice the skills of teaching and learning typified by lead professionals.
• Ensure that good practice and useful resources are shared throughout the department.
•  Ensure that schemes of work are followed to enable the maintenance and development of high standards of teaching and learning with regard to different abilities.
•  Ensure that all lessons are planned with clear aims and objectives, taking into account each pupils’ individual needs through effective differentiation.
• Monitor pupils’ work to ensure high standards are maintained and that pupils make progress
•  Keep up to date with developments in subject area and education in general.
• Contribute to the broader life of the school by supporting and leading curricular and extra-curricular events such as school productions, activity days, trips (including overseas residential) and clubs.
• To deal with inappropriate behaviour quickly and effectively according to the school behaviour policy.
• To set appropriate tasks and challenges for homework according to the published timetable and to ensure that it is regularly marked with constructive feedback.

Extra-curricular activities

• Actively promote interest in the subject outside the immediate physical and timetabled confines of the department.

Marketing and external links, including public occasions

•  Actively promote the department within the school community to encourage pupils’ interest in the subject area.
• Maintain classroom displays and other curriculum materials to create welcoming and stimulating environment.

About You

The ideal candidate will possess Personal integrity, honesty, energy, stamina, enthusiasm, resilience and creativity, the willingness to give generously of time to support school events/activities/run trips and commitment to leading and driving change by personal example

Previous Experience Must Include:

• Excellent understanding of effective learning and teaching strategies
• Ability to teach French to GCSE level with Spanish and/or German to Key Stage 3.
•  Excellent communication skills and ability to work as part of a team
•  Excellent use of ICT and it’s role in teaching & learning
•  Fully qualified graduate with QTS
•  Evidence of successful teaching to account for the needs of pupils with differing abilities

Benefits Package

Here at Cognita we offer a Competitive Salary with some other benefits:

• Contributory Pension Scheme
• Professional development
• School fee discount
• 25 days Holiday plus Bank Holidays
• TPS
• Possible staff discount
• Midday meal provided for staff during term time
• The school is committed to staff development: there is an annual performance management scheme and regular opportunities for in service training. We run an Induction Programme for all new staff.

How to Apply

If this sounds like you, we encourage you to apply by submitting a CV by 8.00am on Monday 27th March 2023.

Diversity and Inclusion

We believe having a diverse workforce makes us better, smarter and happier and so welcome applicants from all backgrounds, genders, and races. We have an unwavering commitment to being fair, inclusive and equitable in our recruitment process.

Cognita Schools are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practice and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.