Senior School Teacher of Spanish & Portuguese as a Second Language

General Overview
The school seeks a highly motivated, inspirational, and talented educator to join the Modern Foreign Languages Department, fostering excellence in language learning and achievement. Pupils consistently excel in public examinations, developing outstanding linguistic skills that prepare them for top universities worldwide and successful careers beyond.

We are looking for a well-qualified, energetic, and innovative teacher to join the Modern Foreign Languages Department.

A full commitment to school life is expected, along with a dedication to professional development and a drive to uphold the department’s reputation for excellence. In addition to teaching responsibilities, teachers serve as tutors to a group of 12–15 Senior School pupils, playing a crucial role in their pastoral care, academic progress, and overall well-being. Participation in the co-curricular enrichment programme is also expected.

About us:

St. Paul’s was founded in 1926 and was the first school in South America to receive accreditation from the UK government as a British School Oversees. Fully coeducational, with about 1,000 pupils, aged from 3 to 18, it is a school with history and tradition, but which embraces innovation, contemporary values and the latest in digital learning. We are a world-class school, and an international member of HMC and IAPS, and a member of COBIS and the LAHC. We are proud of our local, national and international reputation and we constantly strive to improve the opportunities for our pupils and staff. Our recent BSO inspection judged us as a leading British School overseas, and you can download the report from our website. Our exceptional facilities place teaching and learning at the heart of the school.

Watch a video of the school:

More details about the school can be found at www.stpauls.br

Modern Foreign Languages Department

The department offers French, Spanish, and Portuguese as a second language, teaching language and culture from Form 1 (Year 7) to the Upper Sixth (Year 13). French is introduced in the Prep School and continues into the Senior School. At Key Stage 4 (Forms 4 and 5), pupils take the Cambridge IGCSE in first or second language Portuguese, with optional IGCSE courses in French and Spanish. Both languages are highly popular, with up to 20 pupils selecting Spanish and 30 choosing French per year group.

At the IB Diploma level, the department offers Language A and Language B courses in French, Spanish, and Portuguese. Nearly all pupils achieve the bilingual diploma upon completing the Sixth Form.

Teachers are expected to instruct across all age and ability levels. The successful candidate will lead a dedicated team in a dynamic and forward-thinking department. Currently, the team consists of three French teachers and one Spanish teacher, with Portuguese as a second language taught in one class per year group, subject to demand. The Key Stage 3 Portuguese curriculum is differentiated to help pupils achieve fluency and develop a deep understanding of Brazilian culture.

Key Responsibilities

• Inspire and guide pupils to achieve their full potential, fostering a love for language learning.

• Plan and deliver high-quality, engaging lessons in accordance with departmental and school policies.

• Utilise a range of teaching strategies, including digital resources, to support differentiated learning.

• Monitor, assess, and provide timely feedback on pupil progress to both pupils and parents.

• Foster a safe and supportive learning environment that promotes community and aligns with school values.

• Contribute to the school’s academic enrichment programme by running workshops and support sessions.

• Participate in departmental and staff meetings, engaging in continuous professional development.

• Undertake duties such as break and lunch supervision, examination invigilation, and teacher cover as required.

• Serve as a pastoral tutor, supporting the well-being and academic progress of a designated group of pupils.

Our benefits

• Health insurance

• Dental plan

• Pension plan

• Onsite lunches

• Food card

• Transportation tickets

This post is for a local contract.

Safeguarding

The school is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff and volunteers to share in this commitment. The offer of the role would be made subject to receipt of satisfactory references, proof of relevant qualifications, identification checks and other safeguarding checks (including Internet and Social Media profiles and exposure), an overseas check if appropriate and a pre-placement medical assessment. Proof of entitlement to work in Brazil is also required where necessary.

Equality, Diversity and Inclusion

St Paul’s is committed to equality, diversity and inclusion. We recognise the value of diverse environments and strive to promote a culture in which all pupils, staff and members of the school community are welcomed and supported to fulfil their potential, regardless of their background or personal characteristics. We oppose all forms of unlawful and unfair treatment, embarrassment, discrimination, bullying and harassment.

• A university degree in a relevant field.

• A recognised teaching qualification (e.g., PGCE from the UK).

• High proficiency in English.

• Strong curriculum knowledge and subject expertise.

• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and digital teaching tools.

• Excellent time management and organisational skills.

• A proactive, dynamic, and enthusiastic approach to teaching.

• Ability to work collaboratively within a team.

• Resilience under pressure and a commitment to high standards.

This role offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to a high-achieving school with a strong commitment to language education. If you are passionate about inspiring young linguists and leading change within a dynamic department, we encourage you to apply.