Head of Russian Job at Sevenoaks, England, United Kingdom Full Time

Company Description Sevenoaks School (HMC) is a leading co-educational day and boarding school for students aged 11 to 18, offering a distinctive global outlook inspired by the International Baccalaureate. Founded in 1432, the school combines academic excellence with strong pastoral care and a rich co-curricular program. Sevenoaks has been rated “exceptional” for teaching and learning in its latest ISI report and was awarded The Sunday Times Independent Secondary School of the Year. The 100-acre campus is set in the Kent countryside, providing outstanding facilities, while being only about half an hour from Central London and Gatwick Airport. The school community is vibrant, inclusive, and committed to innovative, forward-thinking education.

Role Description The Head of Russian will lead the Russian department, overseeing curriculum design, teaching, and assessment across relevant year groups. This full-time, on-site role in Sevenoaks involves planning and delivering high-quality Russian language and literature lessons, monitoring student progress, and providing regular feedback to students and families. The postholder will mentor and support colleagues teaching Russian, contribute to departmental development, and ensure high standards of teaching and learning. Responsibilities include organizing and promoting co-curricular Russian activities such as clubs, cultural events, trips, and exchanges where appropriate. The Head of Russian will participate in whole-school initiatives, attend relevant meetings, contribute to reporting and examinations processes, and support the school’s pastoral systems and safeguarding responsibilities.

Qualifications

• Strong subject expertise in Russian language and literature, with near-native or native-level proficiency in Russian and excellent command of English.
• Proven experience in teaching Russian to secondary-level students, ideally including examination classes (e.g., IB, A level, or equivalent).
• Demonstrated ability to design engaging curricula, develop high-quality teaching resources, and use effective assessment practices.
• Leadership and team collaboration skills, including the ability to guide a small department, mentor colleagues, and contribute constructively to wider school initiatives.
• Commitment to inclusive, student-centered teaching that supports a diverse range of learners and promotes a positive, respectful classroom environment.
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to manage departmental responsibilities alongside a full teaching timetable.
• Willingness to contribute to co-curricular life, including language clubs, enrichment activities, competitions, and cultural trips or exchanges.
• Relevant degree in Russian or a closely related field; a teaching qualification and experience within an IB or comparable international context are highly desirable.
• Commitment to safeguarding, ongoing professional development, and the broader values and ethos of Sevenoaks School.