Head of Modern Foreign Languages - Independent School -...

A highly respected independent senior school in Birmingham is seeking an ambitious and inspiring Head of Modern Foreign Languages to lead its thriving Languages faculty. The school has a longstanding reputation for academic excellence, cultural breadth and exceptional pastoral care, with languages forming a central pillar of its academic identity.

This is an outstanding opportunity for an experienced MFL teacher ready to step into a strategic leadership role, or for an established Head of Department seeking a new challenge within a forward-thinking and academically ambitious environment.

The Role
As Head of Modern Foreign Languages, you will provide clear strategic direction for French, Spanish and German across Key Stages 3–5. Languages are popular and well-established at both GCSE and A-Level, with strong uptake and consistently excellent outcomes.

You will lead curriculum development, ensure high standards of teaching and learning, and foster a culture of linguistic curiosity and cultural awareness. The department benefits from small class sizes, motivated learners and strong parental engagement.

Key responsibilities include:
• Leading and developing the MFL curriculum across all key stages
• Monitoring academic progress and maintaining excellent examination outcomes
• Mentoring and developing departmental colleagues
• Promoting languages through trips, exchanges and enrichment opportunities
• Contributing to whole-school leadership and strategic planning

The school values immersive language learning and encourages authentic cultural experiences, including European study visits and partnerships with international schools.

The School Environment
Situated within attractive grounds, the school blends traditional architecture with modern teaching facilities. Language classrooms are well resourced, and staff benefit from excellent administrative support and professional development opportunities.

Students are articulate, ambitious and highly engaged. Behaviour is exemplary, and lessons are characterised by intellectual curiosity and mutual respect. The school fosters confidence, global awareness and independent thinking.

Leadership promotes autonomy and innovation, trusting department heads to shape their subject vision while maintaining the school’s high academic standards.

About You
• Qualified Teacher Status (or equivalent independent school experience)
• Strong academic background in Modern Foreign Languages
• Proven experience teaching to GCSE and A-Level
• Demonstrated leadership or readiness to lead a department
• Commitment to academic rigour and cultural enrichment

You will be an inspiring classroom practitioner with the ability to build a cohesive, high-performing team and further elevate the profile of languages across the school.

What’s on Offer
• Competitive independent school salary and leadership allowance
• Small class sizes and high-achieving students
• Generous CPD and leadership development opportunities
• Supportive senior leadership team
• Attractive campus and staff benefits including on-site facilities

This is a rare opportunity to shape the future of Languages within a prestigious Birmingham independent school that values scholarship, culture and excellence.