Head of Modern Foreign Languages

Head of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL)

Bitterne Park School

We are delighted to offer an exciting opportunity for an ambitious and inspirational language specialist to lead our highly respected and forward-thinking MFL Department. This is a role that can be shaped around your expertise, whether you are an experienced Head of Department seeking a new challenge or an established practitioner ready to take the next step into middle leadership.

This is your chance to drive a compelling MFL vision, champion high-quality language learning, and contribute to a vibrant and inclusive school community. With a commitment to curriculum excellence, cultural enrichment, and strong relationships, you will play a key role in supporting our students to develop confidence, curiosity, and global awareness through languages.

About the Role

As Head of Modern Foreign Languages, you will lead a committed, collaborative, and reflective team in delivering engaging and ambitious lessons across Key Stages 3 - 5. You will shape the strategic development of the department, ensuring a high-quality curriculum, excellent outcomes, and a positive culture of learning.

Your main responsibilities will include:

• Leading the MFL department with clarity, ambition, and a focus on continuous improvement.
• Overseeing the planning and delivery of engaging, well-structured lessons that support, stretch, and inspire students of all abilities.
• Designing, developing, and refining a well-sequenced, culturally rich, and inclusive MFL curriculum.
• Implementing effective assessment strategies to track progress, identify misconceptions, and inform teaching across the department.
• Creating a purposeful and supportive environment where students feel confident in taking linguistic risks.
• Coaching and supporting colleagues, modelling excellent practice, and driving professional development within the team.
• Contributing to whole-school priorities, enrichment opportunities, and wider cultural initiatives.
• Promoting a passion for languages through events, trips, and extracurricular activities.

We offer strong support for leaders, with tailored professional development, leadership coaching, and opportunities to contribute to whole-school strategy.

About You

We are looking for someone who is:

• Passionate about languages, cultural learning, and high-quality, inclusive teaching.
• An inspiring leader able to motivate and develop colleagues at all stages of their career.
• Skilled in forming strong, respectful relationships with students and staff.
• Creative, reflective, and committed to driving forward an ambitious departmental vision.
• Well-organised, analytical, and capable of managing the demands of a busy school environment.
• Committed to professional growth and high expectations for all learners.

• Healthcare Cash Plan options for you & your family*
• Free on-site gym & personal & group training sessions
• Electric Car Scheme & onsite charging points
• Childcare and Nursery discount vouchers
• Tech scheme
• Charity Giving
• Free remote & onsite yoga sessions
• Cycle to Work scheme
• Free Parking
• Gym & retailer discounts
• Onsite car valeting
• Enhanced Maternity, Shared Parental & Adoption Leave