Move Language Ahead
EFL Director of Studies - Summer
Move Language Ahead, California, Missouri, United States, 65018
Director of Studies (DoS) – MLA California, Claremont at Pitzer College
Job Type: Residential, Full-Time
Reports to: Academic Manager
Responsible for: Assistant DoS, Teachers, Students and Group Leaders
Location: MLA California at Pitzer College
Pitzer College
1050 N Mills Ave, Claremont, CA 91711
MLA (Move Language Ahead) is an industry leader in providing safe, educational, and cultural holidays to students from around the world. Each year thousands of students travel with MLA as part of our short‑term English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Along with our proprietary task‑based ESL curriculum, we also provide our students with great excursions featuring some of the most popular historical and tourist destinations across the globe.
MLA WELFARE AND SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT MLA is committed to the welfare and safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All students should expect to feel safe within all areas of our seasonal program. The primary concern at all times is the interests and safety of each student and the organization takes all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination or degrading treatment and to uphold their rights. MLA staff working with young learners will all go through our safer recruitment process including online or face‑to‑face interviews, record checks of references and background checks, in line with the country’s regulations, to ensure they are able to work with young people, provide evidence of qualifications and work experience as part of the process and according to our Safeguarding Policy.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Ensure the planning, delivery and smooth running of the academic programme
Monitor effective completion of all tasks
Allocate students to classes and make changes if necessary
Assign level and material to classes
Organize inductions, and CPD sessions for teachers and Group Leaders
Represent MLA values
Report to the Academic Manager
6 days per week
Residential employment available from late June – mid‑Aug…
The post of Director of Studies is a senior position, and the successful candidate will be a member of the school’s management structure. The holder has the key task of leading and managing the academic life of the centre and plays a crucial role in whole‑school strategy and development. You will inspire teachers to deliver high‑quality, communicative Task‑Based English lessons. Directors of Studies are also responsible for communicating with the Center Director and Group Leaders about academic‑related matters. Summer centres are very busy places and there may be duties to perform in addition to those detailed here.
REQUIREMENTS Essential
Must have right to work in the US and the completion of a satisfactory criminal background check is required; the completion of a satisfactory child abuse clearance may also be required
Proven suitability to work with students under 18: at least 2 references
ESL or English teaching experience with teenagers
Be proficient in the use of IT
Desirable
ESL or English Summer School Teaching/Managerial experience in the US
Teacher Management experience
Teacher Training experience
First Aid Qualification
Person Specification
Ability to develop positive relationships with students, earning their trust whilst maintaining proper professional boundaries
Display absolute commitment to the highest standards of professional behaviour and, at all times, to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of children
Excellent communication skills (verbal, written and interpersonal)
Be committed to continuous personal and professional development
Team player
Motivate and inspire teachers sensitively and constructively and, where necessary, challenge colleagues assertively
Self‑motivated and passionate about driving up standards in management, teaching and learning
Be determined, well‑organised and extremely hard‑working
Ability to work accurately and calmly and show resilience when under pressure
Be supportive and help staff with the use of IT
Ability to provide creative ideas to supplement programme curriculum to facilitate learning
Be willing and able to contribute to the wider extracurricular and pastoral life of a summer school
Customer oriented approach: highly aware of cultural sensitivities. Communicate clearly and persuasively with Group Leaders and students to ensure procedures are followed
Ready to initiate and manage change where necessary
SCHEDULE June 29, 2026– August 13, 2026* (Contract dates may vary to meet the needs of the program)
The Residential Director of Studies contract involves a 6‑day workweek, with one 24‑hour period off per week. Classes are typically taught from Monday through Saturday, with 90‑minute sections.
Class Schedule:
Morning lessons: 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Afternoon lessons: 1:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
You will not be required to participate in excursions outside your assigned duties. However, given the demanding nature of MLA programs, you may occasionally be asked to assist outside your standard working hours to ensure the smooth operation of the centre.
KEY POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES Academics in the centre
Take overall responsibility for all aspects of teaching and learning within the school
Develop and implement MLA’s educational philosophy and foster a culture of best practice
Manage the MLA Boards software and keep all records up to date
Be available to Group Leaders, listen carefully and respectfully, and accommodate their requests as much as possible while ensuring MLA procedures are followed
Be flexible and aware of cultural differences when explaining academic decisions/procedures to Group Leaders
Advise the Academic Manager on all academic matters in the centre and request assistance from Head Office
Attend any management training or meetings as required
Support the Center Director and work collaboratively with Centre Administrator and Activity Manager to ensure the successful running of the centre and program when necessary; including assisting in the staff induction and take an active part in discussion and feedback
Provide pastoral care when needed
Residential positions may be on call during the night
Promote and develop the academic curriculum and academic life of the school
Complete all administrative tasks efficiently
Timetable teachers
Centre and classroom set‑up
Manage student admissions and monitor arrangements for placement tests
Cover lessons when necessary and motivate students to improve their learning skills
Organize certificates and run graduation ceremony
Staff Management
Lead and manage the Academic Team in the centre by encouraging, supporting and challenging teachers and HoS to maintain MLA’s high academic standards
Ensure there is a clear communication channel with staff and have an open‑door policy
Monitor staff performance and teachers prompt completion of all administrative tasks required
Ensure teachers prepare lessons and adapt material/stages to their class composition
Chair academic meetings in the centre
Be the first point of call for any teacher in need of advice or support
Cover for absent staff
Arrange cover for absent staff: record and monitor all absences
Supervise the preparation of student reports within agreed deadlines
Inform the Academic Manager of all Continuous Professional Development programs and academic needs in the centre
Delegate tasks to the DoS with necessary support and guidance
Training & CPD
Support teachers in delivering the Task‑Based learning syllabus
Work with the DoS in designing all Continuous Professional Development programs
Carry out inductions
If TEFLQ, carry out formal observations and appraisals in line with the MLA observation guidelines and rubric
Inspire and encourage teachers to deliver CPD sessions for teachers and Group Leaders in relation to the centre needs
Administrative
Assist the Academic Manager with student admissions, monitor and manage arrangements for entrance testing and assessment
Oversee the allocation of staff in consultation with the Academic Manager
Oversee the timetabling and administration of preparation
Monitor live updates of student attendance on the MLA Boards and Teacher Zone
Supervise the completion of up‑to‑date teaching records on the MLA Boards and Teacher Zone
Supervise the preparation of student’s reports and/or course reports within agreed deadlines and ensure they are professional and free of typos
Provide cover teaching when necessary
Equipment & Facilities
Maintain and monitor teaching resources and premises
Ensure teachers’ rooms and classrooms are left secure and tidy after use
Ensure borrowed equipment has been returned
Help develop, advance and expand teaching resources
Safeguarding & Welfare
Promoting the welfare of students and adhere to, and comply with the Safeguarding Policy
Provide safety and welfare assistance to students
Be vigilant for possible welfare problems of students
Inform your DoS of any absences from classes immediately
Report any issues which may be affecting students’ safety, wellbeing and academic performance
Be aware of relevant fire, health and safety issues in the classroom and around the centre
COMPENSATION The Director of Studies position is classified as exempt and will receive a weekly salary commensurate with the successful candidate’s education and experience. The starting salary is $900 per week. This position provides housing and full board.
Residential rates include full board and lodging
Paid training and induction
Work as part of a strong team and gain experience
Opportunities for professional development e.g., observations, team teaching
MLA REPUTATION & CODE OF CONDUCT
Actively support MLA in its mission to provide top quality programs
Provide courses that will support and enable the students to realize their potential and achieve their academic targets
Be dressed in a presentable professional way
Start on time, if this is not possible you must inform your manager as early as possible
Develop a good rapport with the students and Group Leaders and avoid absences as much as possible
Follow the code of conduct specifically detailed in your Handbook
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Do the essential functions of this job require lifting? No
Do the essential functions of this job require standing? Yes
Do the essential functions of this job require walking up stairs? Yes
Do the essential functions of this job require stretching? No
Do the essential functions of this job require bending? No
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT MLA Move Language Ahead is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, handicap/disability, Vietnam‑era/disabled veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other non‑job‑related criteria.
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Reports to: Academic Manager
Responsible for: Assistant DoS, Teachers, Students and Group Leaders
Location: MLA California at Pitzer College
Pitzer College
1050 N Mills Ave, Claremont, CA 91711
MLA (Move Language Ahead) is an industry leader in providing safe, educational, and cultural holidays to students from around the world. Each year thousands of students travel with MLA as part of our short‑term English as a Second Language (ESL) programs. Along with our proprietary task‑based ESL curriculum, we also provide our students with great excursions featuring some of the most popular historical and tourist destinations across the globe.
MLA WELFARE AND SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT MLA is committed to the welfare and safeguarding of children, young people and vulnerable adults. All students should expect to feel safe within all areas of our seasonal program. The primary concern at all times is the interests and safety of each student and the organization takes all reasonable steps to protect children from harm, discrimination or degrading treatment and to uphold their rights. MLA staff working with young learners will all go through our safer recruitment process including online or face‑to‑face interviews, record checks of references and background checks, in line with the country’s regulations, to ensure they are able to work with young people, provide evidence of qualifications and work experience as part of the process and according to our Safeguarding Policy.
POSITION OVERVIEW
Ensure the planning, delivery and smooth running of the academic programme
Monitor effective completion of all tasks
Allocate students to classes and make changes if necessary
Assign level and material to classes
Organize inductions, and CPD sessions for teachers and Group Leaders
Represent MLA values
Report to the Academic Manager
6 days per week
Residential employment available from late June – mid‑Aug…
The post of Director of Studies is a senior position, and the successful candidate will be a member of the school’s management structure. The holder has the key task of leading and managing the academic life of the centre and plays a crucial role in whole‑school strategy and development. You will inspire teachers to deliver high‑quality, communicative Task‑Based English lessons. Directors of Studies are also responsible for communicating with the Center Director and Group Leaders about academic‑related matters. Summer centres are very busy places and there may be duties to perform in addition to those detailed here.
REQUIREMENTS Essential
Must have right to work in the US and the completion of a satisfactory criminal background check is required; the completion of a satisfactory child abuse clearance may also be required
Proven suitability to work with students under 18: at least 2 references
ESL or English teaching experience with teenagers
Be proficient in the use of IT
Desirable
ESL or English Summer School Teaching/Managerial experience in the US
Teacher Management experience
Teacher Training experience
First Aid Qualification
Person Specification
Ability to develop positive relationships with students, earning their trust whilst maintaining proper professional boundaries
Display absolute commitment to the highest standards of professional behaviour and, at all times, to promoting the welfare and safeguarding of children
Excellent communication skills (verbal, written and interpersonal)
Be committed to continuous personal and professional development
Team player
Motivate and inspire teachers sensitively and constructively and, where necessary, challenge colleagues assertively
Self‑motivated and passionate about driving up standards in management, teaching and learning
Be determined, well‑organised and extremely hard‑working
Ability to work accurately and calmly and show resilience when under pressure
Be supportive and help staff with the use of IT
Ability to provide creative ideas to supplement programme curriculum to facilitate learning
Be willing and able to contribute to the wider extracurricular and pastoral life of a summer school
Customer oriented approach: highly aware of cultural sensitivities. Communicate clearly and persuasively with Group Leaders and students to ensure procedures are followed
Ready to initiate and manage change where necessary
SCHEDULE June 29, 2026– August 13, 2026* (Contract dates may vary to meet the needs of the program)
The Residential Director of Studies contract involves a 6‑day workweek, with one 24‑hour period off per week. Classes are typically taught from Monday through Saturday, with 90‑minute sections.
Class Schedule:
Morning lessons: 9:00 a.m. to 12:15 p.m.
Afternoon lessons: 1:30 p.m. to 4:45 p.m.
You will not be required to participate in excursions outside your assigned duties. However, given the demanding nature of MLA programs, you may occasionally be asked to assist outside your standard working hours to ensure the smooth operation of the centre.
KEY POSITION ACCOUNTABILITIES Academics in the centre
Take overall responsibility for all aspects of teaching and learning within the school
Develop and implement MLA’s educational philosophy and foster a culture of best practice
Manage the MLA Boards software and keep all records up to date
Be available to Group Leaders, listen carefully and respectfully, and accommodate their requests as much as possible while ensuring MLA procedures are followed
Be flexible and aware of cultural differences when explaining academic decisions/procedures to Group Leaders
Advise the Academic Manager on all academic matters in the centre and request assistance from Head Office
Attend any management training or meetings as required
Support the Center Director and work collaboratively with Centre Administrator and Activity Manager to ensure the successful running of the centre and program when necessary; including assisting in the staff induction and take an active part in discussion and feedback
Provide pastoral care when needed
Residential positions may be on call during the night
Promote and develop the academic curriculum and academic life of the school
Complete all administrative tasks efficiently
Timetable teachers
Centre and classroom set‑up
Manage student admissions and monitor arrangements for placement tests
Cover lessons when necessary and motivate students to improve their learning skills
Organize certificates and run graduation ceremony
Staff Management
Lead and manage the Academic Team in the centre by encouraging, supporting and challenging teachers and HoS to maintain MLA’s high academic standards
Ensure there is a clear communication channel with staff and have an open‑door policy
Monitor staff performance and teachers prompt completion of all administrative tasks required
Ensure teachers prepare lessons and adapt material/stages to their class composition
Chair academic meetings in the centre
Be the first point of call for any teacher in need of advice or support
Cover for absent staff
Arrange cover for absent staff: record and monitor all absences
Supervise the preparation of student reports within agreed deadlines
Inform the Academic Manager of all Continuous Professional Development programs and academic needs in the centre
Delegate tasks to the DoS with necessary support and guidance
Training & CPD
Support teachers in delivering the Task‑Based learning syllabus
Work with the DoS in designing all Continuous Professional Development programs
Carry out inductions
If TEFLQ, carry out formal observations and appraisals in line with the MLA observation guidelines and rubric
Inspire and encourage teachers to deliver CPD sessions for teachers and Group Leaders in relation to the centre needs
Administrative
Assist the Academic Manager with student admissions, monitor and manage arrangements for entrance testing and assessment
Oversee the allocation of staff in consultation with the Academic Manager
Oversee the timetabling and administration of preparation
Monitor live updates of student attendance on the MLA Boards and Teacher Zone
Supervise the completion of up‑to‑date teaching records on the MLA Boards and Teacher Zone
Supervise the preparation of student’s reports and/or course reports within agreed deadlines and ensure they are professional and free of typos
Provide cover teaching when necessary
Equipment & Facilities
Maintain and monitor teaching resources and premises
Ensure teachers’ rooms and classrooms are left secure and tidy after use
Ensure borrowed equipment has been returned
Help develop, advance and expand teaching resources
Safeguarding & Welfare
Promoting the welfare of students and adhere to, and comply with the Safeguarding Policy
Provide safety and welfare assistance to students
Be vigilant for possible welfare problems of students
Inform your DoS of any absences from classes immediately
Report any issues which may be affecting students’ safety, wellbeing and academic performance
Be aware of relevant fire, health and safety issues in the classroom and around the centre
COMPENSATION The Director of Studies position is classified as exempt and will receive a weekly salary commensurate with the successful candidate’s education and experience. The starting salary is $900 per week. This position provides housing and full board.
Residential rates include full board and lodging
Paid training and induction
Work as part of a strong team and gain experience
Opportunities for professional development e.g., observations, team teaching
MLA REPUTATION & CODE OF CONDUCT
Actively support MLA in its mission to provide top quality programs
Provide courses that will support and enable the students to realize their potential and achieve their academic targets
Be dressed in a presentable professional way
Start on time, if this is not possible you must inform your manager as early as possible
Develop a good rapport with the students and Group Leaders and avoid absences as much as possible
Follow the code of conduct specifically detailed in your Handbook
PHYSICAL DEMANDS
Do the essential functions of this job require lifting? No
Do the essential functions of this job require standing? Yes
Do the essential functions of this job require walking up stairs? Yes
Do the essential functions of this job require stretching? No
Do the essential functions of this job require bending? No
AFFIRMATIVE ACTION STATEMENT MLA Move Language Ahead is an Equal Opportunity/Affirmative Action employer dedicated to excellence through diversity and does not discriminate on the basis of age, race, colour, religion, national origin, sex, sexual orientation, handicap/disability, Vietnam‑era/disabled veteran status, gender identity or expression, or any other non‑job‑related criteria.
#J-18808-Ljbffr