Lower School Class Teacher

Job Title: Lower School Class Teacher
Department: Lower School
Reports To: Head of Lower School

Job Summary

The Lower School Class Teacher at Harrow Beijing is responsible for creating a supportive and engaging learning environment for students aged 6-11. This role requires a commitment to the school’s ethos, effective communication with parents, and collaboration with colleagues to deliver high-quality education that meets diverse student needs.

Key Responsibilities

General Responsibilities

• Actively promote and develop the ethos of the School, ensuring alignment with UK Teaching Standards and Harrow Beijing expectations.
• Foster good relationships with parents through open communication and participation in major school events.
• Maintain an appropriate teaching load while engaging in extracurricular activities as agreed with the Head of Harrow Beijing.
• Follow all school policies and procedures, meeting deadlines and maintaining high standards for student behavior, including dress and punctuality.
• Contribute positively to the School’s values and ethos by collaborating with colleagues on planning and assessment.
• Provide a stimulating learning environment through interactive displays and organized learning areas.
• Keep the Head of Lower School informed of significant developments concerning students.

Curriculum Development

• Maintain familiarity with UK Early Years Foundation Stage (EYFS) and National Curriculum guidelines, along with Harrow Beijing’s units of work and lesson plans.
• Stay updated with curriculum developments through training, readings, and peer observations.
• Plan, prepare, and document lessons regularly, ensuring that resources are effectively managed to challenge and interest students, including those with special educational needs (SEN) and English as an Additional Language (EAL).
• Conduct formative assessments related to units of work and maintain accurate records of student performance, following the School’s Marking Policy.
• Prepare high-quality reports for both internal and external stakeholders.

Welfare and Discipline

• Monitor student performance and provide guidance as needed, maintaining records and writing reports for individual student files.
• Communicate regularly with parents about their children’s progress and behaviors.
• Uphold high standards of behavior and appearance for students, utilizing restorative justice techniques to manage conflicts.
• Ensure compliance with health and safety policies regarding students both on and off school premises.

Personal Form Responsibilities

• Engage and encourage participation in House group activities.
• Lead personal development programs for the form group and maintain regular communication with parents.

Extra-Curricular Activities

• Participate in the after-school activities program, including sports and performing arts.

Personal Development

• Engage in the annual Professional Learning Community and participate in school-wide training initiatives.
• Seek opportunities for further qualifications and professional development.

Collegiality

• Attend meetings to ensure the smooth operation of school programs and mentor new teachers.
• Supervise students during non-instructional periods and cover classes as needed.

Safeguarding

• Commit to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children, working collaboratively to identify and support at-risk students.

Relationships

• Internal: Collaborate with the School Leadership Team, class teachers, support teachers, specialist teachers, administration team, and students.
• External: Maintain communication with parents to support student welfare and development.

Person Specification

Essential Skills and Experience

• At least 2 years of experience as a qualified teacher with the ability to teach students aged 6-11.
• Strong organizational skills and effective communication with students and their families.
• Knowledge of curriculum developments and effective assessment methods.

Desirable Skills and Experience

• Experience in an international school setting.
• Proven ability to differentiate instruction for students of varying abilities.
• Leadership experience in organizing and implementing extra-curricular activities.

Qualifications

• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent.
• A record of improving standards through high-quality teaching.
• A subject specialism is preferred.

Additional Information

This position requires a calm and patient demeanor along with a positive approach to managing young children. The post-holder must comply with the school’s Child Protection and Safeguarding Policy, ensuring a safe environment for all students. The job description may be amended through discussion between the line manager and the staff member and will be reviewed annually during the appraisal process.