We’re thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for an inspiring and innovative Head of French to join our flourishing Modern Foreign Languages Faculty, where you will lead, develop and strengthen a thriving department.

Description

We’re thrilled to announce an exciting opportunity for an inspiring and innovative Head of French to join our flourishing Modern Foreign Languages Faculty, where you will lead, develop and strengthen a thriving department

The Department

The French Department at Hurst is located in a modern purpose built classroom block. It is a well-staffed department including a foreign language assistant, who provides speaking sessions to V, LVI and UVI students. 

French is a popular subject at GCSE with a number of pupils choosing to continue to study it at A Level. We follow the Edexcel iGCSE and achieved an average of 75% 7-9 grades at GCSE in recent years. In the Prep School the vast majority of pupils study both French and Spanish and in the Senior School, all students have the choice of studying one or two languages from a choice of French and Spanish.

Our main aim is to ensure that pupils can understand spoken and written language and express themselves confidently, both orally and in writing. Focus is on both form and fluency to ensure students understand meaning, can communicate meaning and understand the grammatical systems of the French language. Much of the teaching is conducted in French, but English is sometimes used for the explanation of grammar points and for clarification. In addition to traditional textbooks, we make considerable use of interactive online audio and video resources (including Languagenut.com), along with authentic materials from other sources, particularly at A-level.

For our schemes of work at KS3 and into KS4 in the Senior School we use Gianfranco Conti’s MARSEARS pedagogical approach to language learning and there is opportunity for internal and external CPD on this method of teaching. The department aims to provide annual trips (for Y10-Y13) to promote and consolidate language learning and foster a love of French culture and history.

We also aim to broaden their knowledge of literary and political culture with activities such as: film modules in Y9 and Y11, Sixth form film nights, food festivals, podcasts, Y13 celebratory French restaurant trips and the study of seminal French texts and films. The Department aims to engender an enthusiasm for languages that will encourage pupils to achieve the highest levels of academic success, as well as giving them important transferable skills. 

Working at Hurst

Hurst is one of Sussex’s leading independent schools, offering a vibrant and supportive environment for both pupils and staff. With almost 1,400 pupils across our Senior and Prep Schools, we combine academic excellence with a strong sense of community. As a member of our team, you’ll enjoy working in a stunning countryside setting while remaining well-connected. We’re just 20 minutes from the city and beaches of Brighton & Hove, and London is under an hour away by train. Free on-site parking is available to all staff. We also offer a vast range of staff benefits, free meals during term time, use of our exceptional sports facilities, access to wellbeing initiatives, and extensive opportunities for professional development.

The Role

As Head of French, you will:
- Provide academic leadership, direction and support to the French team.
- Maintain and elevate the highest standards of teaching and learning across the subject.
- Lead curriculum development to ensure ambitious, engaging and culturally rich schemes of work.
- Mentor and support colleagues, fostering a collaborative and aspirational departmental culture.
- Manage a team of teaching and support staff to ensure excellent outcomes for students.
- Work closely with the Faculty Leader and senior leadership team to implement strategies that challenge, inspire and stretch learners.
- Contribute fully to the wider life of the College, including co‑curricular activities, trips and enrichment opportunities.

For a talented and ambitious candidate, the opportunity to lead the wider Modern Foreign Languages department may also be a possibility.

Who We’re Looking For

We are seeking an inspiring, innovative and strategic leader who places the development of young people at the forefront of all decisions.

You will:

- Have substantial experience teaching French up to A level, with a strong record of excellent student outcomes.
- Hold a degree in French or a closely related discipline.
- Bring outstanding leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- Demonstrate a commitment to academic excellence, continuous improvement and high-quality language pedagogy.
- Have experience in curriculum design, assessment, and integrating authentic francophone culture into teaching.
- Show enthusiasm for innovative approaches to teaching and learning, including technology, immersion opportunities and enrichment activities.

What We Offer in Return

- A highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package, including membership of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme.
- Complimentary dining and refreshments during term time.
- Fee remission in line with the School Fees Discount Policy.
- Extensive professional development opportunities and clear pathways for career progression across the College and the Hurst Education Trust.
- A vibrant, supportive and collaborative working environment with exceptional facilities.
- Access to superb sports and leisure amenities on campus, including swimming pool, golf simulators and gym.

Safeguarding

Hurstpierpoint College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. Applicants must be willing to undergo appropriate child protection screening for the post, including an online presence and adverse media review, checks with past employers and an enhanced Disclosure and Barring Service check.