Head of French (and Games Teacher)

Job Title: Head of French (and Games Teacher)

Location: Casterton, Sedbergh Prep School

Contract Type: Full or part-time, permanent

Salary: Competitive

Sedbergh School, founded in 1525 by Roger Lupton, Provost of Eton, is an independent co‑educational boarding school. The Headmaster is a member of the Headmasters’ and Headmistresses’ Conference and the Headmaster of the Prep School is a member of the Independent Association of Preparatory Schools. Set in the spectacular Yorkshire Dales National Park, the School also benefits from fast motorway and rail access to the rest of the UK.

A co-educational, day and boarding Prep School, Casterton, Sedbergh Prep School (CSPS) is thriving thanks to the calibre and commitment of its staff. Located on the Cumbria, Lancashire and North Yorkshire borders, on a beautiful site separate to that of the Senior School, CSPS is a busy School with a strong community where opportunities abound, both inside and outside of the classroom.

CSPS is now seeking an enthusiastic and motivated individual to join their team as Head of French from September 2023. Support with re-accommodation may be available; please indicate in application if this is of interest.

A small department, with typically only one or two staff, the successful candidate will inherit a successful and popular scheme of work, but will be provided the flexibility to adapt as they see fit, in collaboration with the Deputy Head (Academic).

Quality teaching to a range of age groups, with an ability to differentiate, use assessment for planning and to build a caring relationship with pupils and parents, are the key skills for this appointment. The School’s major entry point is Year 7, though pupils do join throughout the year groups, and many pupils with no prior experience of the subject will join classes of pupils who have already spent several years learning French.

As a pure Head of French, without other subjects, this role equates to around 0.65 FTE.

However, an interest or ability in sport would be a welcome advantage to applications and Games teaching would bring the role up to full time. The current postholder teaches girls’ games lessons and takes responsibility for a team on match days, but candidates with more experience in boys’ games are still encouraged to apply.

Both boys and girls play hockey and cricket, with girls also enjoying netball and boys playing rugby.

This post will be ideally suited to an outstanding specialist in French, fully acquainted with the use of educational technology, and a keen interest in the extra-curricular and boarding life of a busy prep school.

Proficiency in one of our major team games would be an advantage for those seeking full time employment, but enthusiasm, interest and a willingness to get involved are just as important.

Most full-time members of teaching staff are also Form Tutors, responsible for the first line of their tutees’ pastoral care and parental contact.

Person Specification:

• Educated to degree level or equivalent, with QTS status.
• A specialism in French is an advantage, though applications from qualified teachers fluent in French will also be considered.
• Excellent administrative and organizational skills.
• Strong pastoral care and empathy for young children.
• Resilience to the demands of a busy boarding school.
• The ability to communicate sensitively with parents.
• Teamwork and collaboration.
• Kindness, empathy and warmth.
• Sustained energy and a sense of humour.
• Proficient in the use of ICT for teaching and learning.
• Knowledge of games coaching is an advantage, but is not essential.
• Familiarity with boarding education would be an advantage, but is not essential.

How to Apply:

For further information on the vacancy, please download the 'Applicant Info Pack', or visit the School Vacancies Page.

If you are interested in being a part of our team, please complete the Sedbergh School teaching application form, attached to this advert, in full.

Completed application forms should be returned to: hradmin@sedberghschool.org.

The closing date for applications is Friday, 07th April 2023.

Interviews are planned for the week commencing Monday 17th April 2023. Please indicate if you would be unavailable for any date during this week.

Please note that due to the needs of the School and the department, we may interview suitable candidates before the closing date. This job may also close early if a large number of applications are received. You are therefore advised to submit your application as early as possible to avoid missing your chance to apply. 

We look forward to hearing from you.

Sedbergh School is committed to safeguarding & protecting the welfare of children. Applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and The Disclosure and Barring Service.

Registered charity.