Head of Spanish​/Head of Modern Foreign Languages

School Cranleigh School Salary Competitive Working hours Full time Final date to receive applications Friday, February 27, 2026 Job Summary

Are you an inspirational linguist with the vision to lead a thriving department?

We are seeking to appoint a highly motivated, well-qualified, and innovative Head of Spanish to lead our successful Spanish Department From September 2026. This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced educator with a proven track record in public examinations (GCSE and A-level) to shape the academic direction of a core subject.

For a suitably experienced candidate, there is also the potential to take on the broader leadership role of Head of Modern Foreign Languages (MFL).

You will join a friendly, open, and committed team of eight MFL specialists. The Spanish department currently consists of three specialists supported by a dedicated Language Assistant.

Our facilities are second-to-none, featuring:

• Purpose-built facilities: Lessons are taught in a well-resourced block where every teacher has their own classroom.
• Digital Innovation: We are an iPad-integrated school; both staff and pupils use iPads as an integral tool for teaching and learning.
• Enrichment-led Curriculum: From hosting Spanish Sixth Form themed evenings to leading biennial cultural trips to Spain, we believe in taking language learning far beyond the specification.

As Head of Department, you will report to the Head and Deputy Head Academic, focusing on three core pillars:

• Model teaching excellence across all year groups, including A-Level and Oxbridge preparation.
• Oversee the evolution of schemes of work and curriculum specifications.
• Curate the literary and cinematic resources for A-Level study.
• Drive the development of innovative teaching and learning strategies within the department.

• Foster the professional growth of the team through mentoring, work scrutinies, and lesson observations.
• Support the development of PGCE students, ECTs, and graduate teachers.
• Lead weekly departmental meetings to share best practices and track student progress.

• Manage the departmental budget and annual development plans.
• Oversee staffing allocations, rooming, and timetabling in collaboration with the Head of French.
• Coordinate external examination entries and entrance assessments.

The successful candidate will be:

• A passionate Hispanist with the ability to inspire both staff and students.
• An experienced teacher with a "results-proven" background at IGCSE and A-Level.
• A forward-thinking leader who embraces technology (iPad proficiency is a plus).
• Eager to play a full role in the vibrant extra-curricular life of our busy school.

Cranleigh offers a supportive community environment and also a wide range of benefits.

For further details about the role, please see the job description below.

Please note interviews will be held on the 4 th & 5 th March.

To apply, please click on the yellow ‘Apply Now’ button in the top right corner.

Candidates are requested to submit a brief letter of application (no more than one side of A4), together with the online application and supported by a full CV (via the ‘Apply now’ button) as soon as possible and no later than 9:00 am 27 th February. Applications are considered as they are received and therefore the vacancy may close sooner than advertised.

Cranleigh School recognises the positive value of diversity, promotes equality and challenges discrimination. We welcome and encourage job applications from people of all backgrounds.

All applicants must have the right to work in the UK.

The School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. The post holder will be subject to a DBS check.

Job Profile Job Profile document

Cranleigh aims to educate children in a truly holistic sense, providing every opportunity for pupils to discover and nurture their talents and passions. We want every pupil in our care to flourish. Above all, we want Cranleighans to go out into the world as Thinking, Being, Giving individuals.

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