HMC BOARDING AND DAY 700 Upper School; 280 Sixth Form Acting Head of French or Teacher of French (maternity cover) Bedford School Situated just 35 minutes on the train from London St Pancras, and half way between Oxford and Cambridge, Bedford School is one of the region s leading boarding and day schools, educating boys from the ages of 7 to 18. Part of The Harpur Trust, Bedford s leading educational and social welfare charity, we re a vibrant school with a very strong sense of community, set in a beautiful 50-acre estate in the heart of the town. There are some 694 pupils in the Upper School aged 13 to 18, with approximately 260 in the Sixth Form. 35% of the boys are boarders in our six boarding houses, each of which is twinned with a day house. Our Prep School with 400 boys caters for the 7-13 age range on the same campus, and has its own junior Boarding House. Academic excellence is central to life at Bedford School, and we encourage boys to aspire to the highest possible standards and to exceed their expectations. Our success is demonstrated by a long history of impressive exam results at GCSE, A level, and in the International Baccalaureate Diploma. IB and A Level combined results saw 84% of grades at the equivalent of A* to B in 2017. 61% of GCSE results were at A/A* 2017. The vast majority of our leavers go on to Higher Education, and 78% of our Upper Sixth boys accepted places at Russell Group universities this summer.
The school was inspected in November 2016, and we are particularly proud of the fact that ISI (Independent Schools Inspectorate) gave us the top ratings possible. Full details, including a copy of the inspection report can be found here: http://www.bedfordschool.org.uk/inspection-report The school adopts a selective entry policy without being ruthless and seeks to provide an environment where all boys will thrive academically. It emphasises continuity of education at 13+ and 16+ so that, although there are academic entry requirements at each point, they are geared to whether boys are suitable to move to the next stage rather than over-formulaic targets. We believe in an all-round education that exposes all boys to a wide range of experiences and opportunities. We place great emphasis on the value of Sport, Music and the Arts for the camaraderie, teamwork and self-motivation they instil, and encourage boys to explore their individual talents. Our extensive programme of extracurricular activities is wide-ranging and offers boys the opportunity to learn new skills and discover new interests outside the classroom. Boarding is at the heart of the school and all full-time members of staff are expected to contribute to the wider life of the school through involvement in the tutoring system and in activities outside the classroom. The school s ongoing development programme has included the construction of a new Library (2003), Observatory & Planetarium (2003), a new Music School (2006) and a wonderful new theatre in St Luke s Church, on the edge of the estate (2015). Other developments have included renovation of the school dining halls and kitchens (2009), fitness suite (2010), staff common room (2011), sports pavilion (2012) and science department (2015).
French and MFL Department The Modern Languages Department is a lively, professional and busy place to teach. There are currently has eight full-time teachers and one part-time teacher covering the needs of our boys in the senior school in French, German and Spanish. In addition, we have a part-time co-ordinator of Mandarin and native speaker language assistants in French, German and Spanish, appointed annually. French, German and Spanish are offered in the mainstream curriculum from the Fourth Form (Year 9) upwards and Mandarin is available both within our IB Diploma Programme and, at various levels, off-timetable. All boys take at least one modern language to IGCSE, and some take two. In the Sixth Form, French, German, Spanish and Mandarin are offered to A and AS Levels and as part of the International Baccalaureate Diploma course. All members of the Department have first degrees and have experience of teaching the 13 to 18 cohort. There are regular meetings and new members of staff are supported in their professional development. The Department teaches largely within the departmental area on the second floor of the main building, has a wealth of resource materials, including software, AV facilities in each classroom, an IWB in a number of rooms and a dedicated Sanako digital language laboratory which was completely upgraded with new facilities in 2011. Department results for the last three years are as follows: A2 Level (incl. IB equivalents) GCSE FRENCH SPANISH GERMAN FRENCH SPANISH GERMAN 2017 A* - B Grades 77% 50% 89% A* - C Grades A* - A Grades 93% 58% 91% 34% 100% 73% 2016 A* - B Grades 83% 75% 100% A* - C Grades A* - A Grades 93% 59% 87% 44% 97% 53% 2015 A* - B Grades 67% 100% 100% A* - C Grades A* - A Grades 96% 61% 100% 66% 89% 57% We offer our pupils visits to France, Germany and Spain. We hold an annual Festival of Languages in conjunction with Bedford Preparatory School and in association with Bedford Girls School we have Societies for Sixth Formers in the various languages. For some years the Department has presented foreign language productions of plays (most recently Don Juan, Molière and La llave en el desván) in the School Theatre.
The department base is well stocked with teaching materials and has a strong presence on the School s elearning (Firefly) site. The Modern Languages library, consisting of works of literature, critical studies and publications on non-literary themes, is housed in the main School library under the care of a full-time professional librarian. The Role We wish to appoint a teacher from either June or September 2018 who is enthusiastic and well qualified, to join a large, highly successful and thriving department. The successful candidate will have a genuine passion for languages and a desire to inspire this in others. They will also be eager to develop their own teaching skills and share ideas with colleagues. Previous experience of leading a French or other academic Department would be ideal, though not necessarily essential. We welcome applications from either those wishing to take on the Acting Head of Department role, or who wish to be a teacher without the Head of Department responsibilities. Please indicate clearly on your application form which role you would like to be considered for. Benefits of Service Bedford School has high expectations of its staff and therefore looks to reward them with generous salary scale increments and beneficial conditions of service. All teachers are offered membership of the Teachers Pension Scheme and have longer holidays than the maintained sector. Class sizes are small (maximum of 14 at Sixth Form and 24 at GCSE) and most teachers have their own classroom. A wide range of opportunities for professional development exist and staff are encouraged to develop their skills and consider career options at all levels. There is ample opportunity to take on additional responsibilities for which there are allowances. Fee concessions are available across the Harpur Trust schools. A private health care scheme is also available for teaching staff. Bedford is set in beautiful grounds and staff are welcome to make use of the extensive leisure and sporting facilities (which includes gym, swimming pool, tennis courts, squash courts etc.) for themselves and their immediate family.
All staff enjoy free on-site parking. Lunch (of outstanding quality) and free refreshments are available throughout the day; other meals are available according to staff commitments. Each member of the teaching staff has a voice on professional matters via the Common Room Chair, and all staff are encouraged to contribute to the Teaching and Learning Group. The ability to join a strong community through a number of social events (Staff Bar, Staff sports leagues etc.) is encouraged. Bedford is a dynamic and incredibly rewarding place to work with a strong sense of community. General Information Full-time teachers at Bedford are expected to: Play a full part in the extensive games and activities programme Be a Tutor attached to a boarding or day house Bedford School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. Offers of appointment are subject to satisfactory references and DBS clearance. Staff are normally expected to find their own accommodation, although there may be some school accommodation available in certain circumstances. Application Process Applicants are asked to complete the School Application Form; CVs in place of an Application Form cannot be accepted. Short-listed candidates will be invited to the school for interview on the advertised date. The selection process will involve a lesson observation and several interviews. The current Head of Department, Mrs Jessica Wahid, would be happy to talk to prospective applicants, as would the Head of MFL, Mr Frank Graeff; they can be contacted through the
School Reception on 01234 362200 or by email jwahid@bedfordschool.org.uk or fgraeff@bedfordschool.org.uk Bedford School is part of The Harpur Trust
Acting Head of French or Teacher of French (Maternity Cover) Job Description The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Summary of the role Job Title: Department: Location: Job Purpose: Reporting Line: Hours: Acting Head of French or Teacher of French Modern Languages Department De Parys Avenue, Bedford To manage the French Department, teach French (and other languages as appropriate) from Years 9 13, and oversee all French teaching including (I)GCSE, A Level and IB Head of Modern Foreign Languages/Deputy Head (Academic) Full-time, fixed term contract for up to one year, to June 2019. The post-holder will be required to work as necessary to complete the job (subject to the Working Time Regulations 1998). Line management responsibility for: French Department Main duties and responsibilities This job description does not form part of the contract of employment and may be varied in accordance with the demands of the appointment. Your Professional Duties You are expected to act in accordance with the aims, policies and administrative procedures of the School. The Head of Department is responsible to the Head Master for all aspects of the organisation, management and performance of the Department.
Specific Duties and Responsibilities The following duties shall be deemed to be included in the professional duties which you will be required to perform: 1. Department Management To ensure that all members of the Department fulfil the requirements of their job descriptions as teachers and teaching assistants. To promote a collective French Department identity in the School and to devise and execute an inspiring development plan (updated annually) in accordance with the Head Master s strategic priorities. To assist in the development of the aims, policies and administrative procedures of the School and to ensure that these are implemented through the work of the Department. To be available to Departmental colleagues and be able to offer advice and guidance and support; to oversee all aspects of Departmental appraisal and INSET training; to oversee the induction of new staff. To conduct a periodic appraisal of the Department and a thorough analysis of exam results every August. To review, maintain or develop appropriate schemes of work at all levels; to be aware of general developments in Modern Languages education and to maintain a detailed knowledge of proposed changes in syllabus expectations. To take responsibility for the administration of the Department: to include timetable planning; setting; teaching rooms; exam entries (internal and external); budget planning, budget management, syllabus selection, resource allocation, oversight of coursework and controlled assessment. To develop and regularly review Departmental policies; to ensure that school expectations with regards to prep, marking and data analysis are met within the Department and to track the progress of pupils; to meet regularly as a Department and to ensure that minutes are kept of the meetings. To lead, promote and monitor extra-curricular activities and events related to the subject. To liaise with other Heads of Departments as necessary; represent the Department at Heads of Departments Meetings; to advise the Head Master about resources, curriculum changes, staffing and professional development. To ensure that the visual appearance of the Department and its classrooms are of the highest standard. To advise all those wishing to pursue any university studies and careers linked to the subject. To advise the Head Master on the selection of new staff. To develop good relations with boys, parents, teaching and non-teaching colleagues and the wider community; to represent the School when required. To liaise with Heads of French in other schools. To carry out any other responsibilities reasonably required by the Head Master. 2. Teaching Uphold high standards of preparation, teaching and discipline. Plan lessons in accordance with Department s schemes of work. Set and mark homework, examinations and other forms of assessment. Use ICT within the curriculum. Contribute to departmental activity beyond the curriculum. Establish high and appropriate expectations for learning, motivation and presentation of work. 3. Assessment, Recording and Reporting Maintain plans of lessons undertaken and records of boys work. Provide constructive oral and written feedback, with clear targets.
Report on pupil progress in line with School policy. Keep parents informed of boys progress at parents evenings, and as appropriate. 4. Pastoral Care Be fully conversant with and apply the School s child protection policy and all related issues. Promote the general progress and well-being of boys in your care. Perform the duties of a Tutor in line with school expectations. 5. Professional Standards Support the aims and ethos of the School. Treat all members of the School community with respect and consideration. Treat all boys fairly, consistently and without prejudice. Set a good example to boys in terms of appropriate dress, punctuality and attendance. Participate in the School s extracurricular programme. Take responsibility for personal professional development Attend all Departmental and staff meetings, Parents Evenings, New Parent s Day, Exam Results Days and ensure that all deadlines are met as published in the online School calendar. Take responsibility for matters relating to health and safety. Undertake duties that may be reasonably assigned by the Head Master (directly or indirectly). Responsibilities may be direct, joint or through devolved structures, but always in accordance with whole school policies. These details may be amended at any time by agreement, but in any case will be reviewed through the appraisal process. You may also be required to undertake such other comparable duties as the Trust requires from time to time.
Person Specification Acting Head of French or Teacher of French (Maternity Cover) The Trust is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. Essential These are qualities without which the Applicant could not be appointed Desirable These are extra qualities which can be used to choose between applicants who meet all of the essential criteria Method of assessment Qualifications Good honours degree in French or an appropriate related subject from a recognised university either in the UK or overseas. PGCE / QTS Certificates Experience Teaching of (I)GCSE and A Level French to a high level including Oxbridge entrance or equivalent. Experience of and teaching of the IB. Experience of academic leadership. Application form and references The ability to teach another MFL. Skills and Knowledge Outstanding teaching practice. An ability to inspire and motivate students. To be able to contribute material to the website and the VLE. A clean driving licence. Application form, references and interview Excellent communication, orally and in writing, with boys, parents and staff. A D1 minibus licence or a willingness to obtain one. Driven and motivated with proven leaderships skills Strong organisational and time management skills. Ability to coach one of the school s major sports (Rowing / Rugby / Cricket / Hockey) and/or contribute to the School s extra-curricular activities The ability to utilise and develop departmental teaching strategies and resources. Experience of best practice in data analysis and tracking of student progress. Excellent interpersonal skills. Proficiency in ICT and the ability to use ICT appropriately to support learning. A good knowledge of relevant ICT applications and techniques for the teaching of French. To have a well-informed understanding of the requirements of (I)GCSE and A Level French specifications and their suitability for meeting learners needs.
To have up-to-date appreciation of the requirements of relevant exam specifications. Understanding of safeguarding and pastoral issues. Personal competencies and qualities An intellectual interest in French Culture, Language and Literature and a passion for the subject and all it offers. An approachable and professional manner. Ability to advise pupils, parents and staff insightfully. Interest in continuing professional development of self and colleagues. Interview and references A pragmatic and can do approach. Resilience, commitment and confidence. A perceptive understanding of teenagers and their needs and expectations. An ability to prioritise and remain calm under pressure. Flexible, well-organised, energetic and selfdirected.