Teacher (EAL / Language Acquisition – Years 5–8)

Join the Australian International School Malaysia (AISM)

At the Australian International School Malaysia (AISM), we are a vibrant international learning community dedicated to nurturing confident, curious and compassionate young people. Guided by the Australian Curriculum, we deliver a balanced and academically rigorous education that develops the whole child—intellectually, socially, emotionally and physically.

Set on a beautiful 7.5-acre green campus in Mines Resort City, just 25 minutes from central Kuala Lumpur, AISM offers world-class facilities, purpose-built learning spaces and a warm, globally minded community. Our students experience seamless progression from Early Years to pre-university, preparing them not only for academic success but for life as adaptable, thoughtful and future-ready global citizens.

About the Academic English Pathway (AEP)

The Academic English Pathway (AEP) is an intensive, immersive academic English programme designed for non-native English speakers entering Years 5–8 (Ages 10–14).

This year-long programme equips students with the English language proficiency, academic skills and subject knowledge required to transition successfully into mainstream classes. The curriculum is developed by the AEP Curriculum Committee and aligned with AISM’s academic frameworks.

Who Are We Looking For

We are looking for a skilled and passionate EAL / Language Acquisition specialist who thrives in an intensive, immersive English language learning environment. You

will be the lead teacher of targeted English language acquisition skills – Grammar, Listening, Reading, Writing and Speaking – and will collaborate closely with content- area colleagues to ensure language development is embedded across the entire AEP curriculum. You are collaborative, adaptable and committed to the intensive nature of the program. You bring deep expertise in second language acquisition theory and practice, and you use creative, evidence-based methods to accelerate English proficiency for learners from diverse linguistic backgrounds. You will experience high levels of ownership and empowerment in your role.

Job Description

The EAL / Language Acquisition Teacher is a reflective practitioner who uses research-informed language teaching strategies to create positive learning environments that motivate and challenge all learners to develop their English language proficiency across all four domains (listening, speaking, reading, writing).

The teacher will deliver dedicated EAL lessons, support content-area colleagues withlanguage-focused co-teaching and co-planning, and fulfil the role of Staff Mentor with a designated group of students.

Role & Responsibilities

The EAL / Language Acquisition Teacher will:

• Deliver engaging, well-prepared EAL lessons that systematically develop students’ English language proficiency across grammar, listening, reading, writing and speaking

• Design and implement targeted language instruction that accelerates students’ academic English development and prepares them for mainstream classroom expectations

• Collaborate with content-area teachers (Mathematics, Science, Language and Literature, Humanities) to co-plan and co-teach, ensuring language acquisition is embedded across all subject areas

• Assess, monitor and track students’ English language proficiency using appropriate EAL assessment tools and frameworks

• Apply the AEP content-based language instruction approach, differentiating for varied English proficiency levels and learning needs

• Ensure thorough understanding and implementation of the approved AEP curriculum within their teaching areas

• Produce, collect, mark, return and file assessment tasks, tests and examinations to a high quality and suitable standard

• Work with designated students to develop and monitor progress according to their individual learning goals

• Ensure student reports and progress updates are carried out at appointed times and to a high standard

• Keep up to date regarding curriculum knowledge and issues pertinent to EAL pedagogy, second language acquisition research and best practice

• Liaise with the AEP Program Leader to ensure curricula and programs are of a high standard and fit for purpose

• Assist with the ongoing evaluation, monitoring and development of programs to ensure high quality

• Contribute to the development and curation of EAL resources, scope and sequences, and assessment materials for the AEP

• Maintain accurate records, registers, mark-books and database entries thoroughly and in a timely manner

• Ensure that communication with parents and student enquiries are dealt with efficiently and within expected timeframes

• Use a range of teaching methodologies including appropriate creative use of Information Technologies

• Maintain appropriate standards of classroom management and behaviour in line with School policy

• Provide a caring and nurturing classroom environment for all students

• Fulfil the role of Staff Mentor with a designated group of students, supporting their wellbeing, adjustment and academic progress

• Provide detailed weekly progress reports home to designated student mentees

• Actively participate in the co-curricular life of the School and encourage student involvement in activities that enhance language learning and socialisation

• Support AEP online and blended learning programs including content creation, teaching duties and curriculum development

• Attend morning briefings, staff meetings and professional development activities as required

• Establish effective working relationships with colleagues and parents

• Participate in all aspects of school life and support holistic education

• Perform any other duties as assigned by the AEP Program Leader or Head of School

Qualifications & Skills

• A relevant degree in TESOL, Applied Linguistics, English Language, Education or a related field, plus teaching qualification (or equivalent)

• TESOL, CELTA, DELTA or equivalent EAL/ESL qualification

• Minimum three years’ experience teaching EAL/ESL students in a school setting

• Demonstrated expertise in second language acquisition theory and practice

• Successful experience as a class teacher at upper primary or secondary school level

• Experience with EAL assessment frameworks and proficiency benchmarking (e.g. WIDA, SLATE, Cambridge English)

• Experience with content-based language instruction or sheltered instruction approaches, e.g. SIOP (preferred)

• Experience with differentiated instruction and personalised learning

• Experience with student mentoring and pastoral care

• Experience in an international school environment (preferred)

• Higher degree or recognised professional qualification (preferred)

• Evidence of continued relevant professional development

• Highly developed interpersonal and teamwork skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English

• Proficiency in using school systems, databases, communications platforms and educational technology

• Speaks English fluently and has personal experience studying another language; proficiency in Mandarin, Korean or Japanese preferred

Why Join AISM?

• A supportive and collaborative international community

• Modern facilities and inspiring campus environment

• Opportunities for leadership, innovation and curriculum development

• Commitment to professional growth and holistic education

If you are an innovative educator who believes that language acquisition is the responsibility of every teacher and are passionate about empowering students to succeed academically and personally, we would love to hear from you.

Apply now and become part of a school community that shapes confident, capable and globally minded learners.