Head of MFL
Paignton Academy, Paignton, Devon, TQ3 3WA28 days remaining to apply
Job start date
1 September 2026
Closing date
30 April 2026 at 11:59pm
Date listed
2 April 2026
Job details
Job role
- Head of department or curriculum
Visa sponsorship
- Skilled Worker visas can be sponsored
Key stage
- Key stage 3, Key stage 4, Key stage 5
Subject
- Languages
Working pattern
- Full time (Can be done as a job share)
Contract type
- Permanent
Full-time equivalent salary
- £32,280 - £52,000 +TLR 2B £5,870
Additional allowances
£5,870 TLR
What skills and experience we're looking for
We are excited to offer an opportunity for an ambitious and passionate leader to join our team as Head of MFL, leading the development of French and Modern Foreign Languages across the Academy.
This is a key leadership role where you will shape the vision for MFL, drive high standards of teaching and learning, and ensure strong outcomes for all students.
As Head of MFL, you will:
- Lead and develop the MFL department, setting clear expectations for teaching, learning and behaviour
- Design, implement and quality assure a strong curriculum across Key Stages 3 and 4
- Ensure assessment is effective and used to drive student progress in line with Academy expectations
- Monitor outcomes and take action to improve performance where needed
- Line manage and develop staff, ensuring access to high-quality CPD
- Plan and lead department meetings aligned with whole-school priorities
- Maintain a strong, visible presence within the department, modelling high standards
- Teach across key stages, delivering engaging and effective lessons
What the school offers its staff
Why Join the Thinking Schools Academy Trust?
We’re proud to offer more than just a job—we provide a range of exceptional benefits to support and reward our staff:
Career Development: We’re committed to your growth and offer fantastic opportunities for career advancement. From staff development days and conferences to apprenticeships at every level, we provide clear pathways for progression and exciting promotional opportunities across regions.
Health and Wellbeing Support: Access our 24/7 Employee Assistance Programme, free flu vaccinations and eye care vouchers. Enjoy reduced membership fees at our fully-equipped fitness suite and classes.
Employee Recognition: Refer a Friend and TSTARS Staff Recognition Programme.
TSAT Benefits Portal:A one-stop shop benefits hub that gives you access to a range of exclusive benefits including cashback on your favourite supermarkets and high street retailers, Cycle to Work Scheme and Discounted Gym Membership.
Blue Light Card:Offering exclusive discounts and savings at thousands of retailers, restaurants, and attractions.
Further information about the job
If you are interested in working at our school, benefiting from a supportive network of colleagues across our Trust, and are keen to progress your career then please apply today!
Early applications are encouraged, and we reserve the right to close the vacancy early if a suitable candidate is found.
We strongly encourage anyone who may be interested in working at our school to contact Sara Robotham (HR & Payroll Officer) via email to arrange an informal conversation about the role.sara.robotham@paigntonacademy.tsat.uk
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process, please emailrecruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
Commitment to safeguarding
We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expect all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. This post is subject to an enhanced DBS check. As per KCSIE we will also undertake online searches for all shortlisted candidates, if you have any questions regarding this process please email recruitment@tsatrust.org.uk
Applying for the job
Apply for the job by following the link below.
CVs will not be accepted for this application.
View advert on school website (opens in new tab)Additional documents
If you need these documents in an accessible format, please contact the school.
About Paignton Academy
- School type
- Academy, ages 11 to 16
- Education phase
- Secondary school
- School size
- 1582 pupils enrolled
- Age range
- 11 to 16
- Ofsted report
- View Ofsted report
- School website
- Paignton Academy website
- Email address
- simon.arnold@tsatrust.org.uk
At Paignton Academy, we focus on developing well-rounded students who excel academically and grow socially, emotionally, and morally. We inspire our students to be kind, resilient, and responsible, preparing them to face challenges and contribute positively to society.
Paignton Academy is on a significant improvement journey which was recognised in its most recent Ofsted report (December 2024):
The school has redesigned its curriculum to be broad and ambitious. The knowledge pupils will learn is organised in a logical order. The impact of these improvements is evident in key stage 3, where pupils demonstrate they know and remember more of what they have been taught.
Since the previous inspection, the quality of provision for pupils with special educational needs and/or disabilities (SEND) has improved. Pupils’ needs are identified quickly, and appropriate support is put in place. Teachers have a growing understanding of how to adapt their teaching successfully for the benefit of these pupils. The school ensures that pupils with SEND are included in the wider life of the school.
Pupils’ behaviour has improved. Lessons are calm and purposeful. The ‘speak up, speak out’ campaign has led to more pupils feeling confident to report concerns.
Arranging a visit to Paignton Academy
To arrange a visit and increase the chance of a successful application email simon.arnold@tsatrust.org.uk.
School location
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