Teacher of German (with possible TLR for KS5 Leader of Languages)

The Governors of this exceptional Grammar School wish to appoint a well-qualified and enthusiastic Teacher of German, with the opportunity for a TLR to lead Key Stage 5 within the Languages Faculty for a suitably experienced candidate. This is a full-time, permanent position starting in September 2025.

We are seeking a German specialist who can teach the subject to A Level (GCE). The ability to teach Spanish would be highly desirable but not essential. A good degree in German or a closely related subject is required, and candidates must have a strong knowledge of teaching Modern Foreign Languages, with a good understanding of examination requirements. A proven track record of motivating learners and raising achievement is essential.

For candidates appointed with a TLR, the successful candidate will work alongside the Head of Languages, Key Stage 3 Leader, and Key Stage 4 Leader to oversee the continued development of the Languages Faculty, which includes German, French, and Spanish. This is an excellent opportunity for a skilled and passionate teacher to further their leadership experience and contribute to an ambitious and dynamic team.

This post would suit a recently qualified teacher, for whom extensive support and encouragement will be given, or a more experienced practitioner ready to take on leadership responsibilities.

The Languages Faculty at WKGS is dedicated to creating outstanding linguists and fostering a lifelong passion for communication in other languages. Students are taught to value language learning as a gateway to wider opportunities, both academic and personal.

Our curriculum allows Key Stage 3 students to study two modern languages from French, German, and Spanish. At Key Stages 4 and 5, they can choose one or both of the languages previously studied. The faculty follows Pearson Edexcel specifications for all public exams, except A Level Spanish, which follows the AQA specification.

The Key Stage 3 curriculum is based on the Pearson Dynamo, Stimmt, and Viva textbooks, but our faculty adapts and tailors resources to suit WKGS learners, incorporating elements of the EPI method of teaching languages.

In addition to the core curriculum, the faculty supports students in gaining additional qualifications in their home or community languages and has supported GCSE and A Level entries in languages such as Mandarin, Cantonese, and Turkish, as well as offering Italian as an extracurricular GCSE option.

The faculty is situated at the heart of the school, with seven dedicated teaching rooms, a workroom, and access to technology, including Google Chrome workbooks and computer suites. We welcome three Modern Language Assistants each year (via the British Council) for French, German, and Spanish, who provide native speaker expertise to enhance our teaching.

Students benefit from a wide range of enrichment opportunities, including visits and exchanges abroad, university masterclasses, collaborations with local schools, lunchtime clubs, and access to a modern language DVD and literature library.

West Kirby Grammar School is a very successful selective girls’ school with a coeducational Sixth Form. There are approximately 1200 students on roll, and results are exceptional. In 2024, the Progress 8 score was +0.42, with 51% of results at grades 9–7 and 15% at grade 9. At A-level, 61% of grades were A* – B, with the average grade being a B.

If you have any questions regarding the post, please contact the school for further information.

Further information and an application form are available to download on the School’s website or by contacting the School on 0151 632 3449.

A completed application form and letter addressing the content of the person specification, which should be no longer than two sides of A4, should be submitted to office@wkgs.net for the attention of Mr S. Clarke, Headteacher.

Closing date: 9am on Tuesday 25 February 2025.

Anticipated interview date: Tuesday 4 March 2025.

WKGS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check.