English as an Additional Language Specialist
About This Role
POSITION TITLE: English as an Additional Language Specialist
DIRECT SUPERVISOR: Director of Student Support
CONTRACT DAYS: 190 days
PERIOD OF APPOINTMENT: Per Employment Contract
DIRECT REPORTS: not applicable
Mission
We challenge, inspire, and empower learners to realize their unique potential in our evolving world.
Vision
We aim to lead the way toward a sustainable future.
Values
Balance, Respect, Resilience, Innovation, and Courage
VIS Definition of Learning
Learning occurs when we construct and apply new knowledge and skills in various contexts.
VIS Learning Principles
Our teaching practices are guided by the following research-informed learning principles:
Learners at the center: We recognize learners as active participants and encourage their engagement.
Learners are unique: We strive to engage all learners and adapt to their individual needs.
Learners have emotions: We acknowledge the importance of emotions and are mindful of individual motivations.
Learners have potential: We embrace high expectations while recognizing individual differences.
Learners are collaborative: We value social interaction and the engagement with diverse perspectives.
Learners make connections: We encourage linking knowledge and transferring learning to new contexts.
Learners are reflective: We ensure a clear purpose, understanding of next steps, and use feedback to promote growth.
IB Learner Profile:
Inquirers, Knowledgeable, Thinkers, Communicators, Principled, Open-minded, Caring, Risk-takers, Balanced, Reflective
POSITION OVERVIEW
This role focuses on enhancing the English academic language skills of multilingual learners through collaborative planning and teaching, sharing resources and strategies with the wider community, engaging learners through inquiry-based instruction, and providing specialized language support across various subjects. The teacher cultivates intercultural awareness and global perspectives while tailoring instruction to accommodate varied language requirements.
PERFORMANCE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Promote and develop inclusive, safe, and stimulating classroom environments that celebrate linguistic and cultural diversity.
Work alongside subject teachers to effectively scaffold instruction and jointly design lessons that facilitate language development across subjects.
Engage in co-planning, co-teaching, and co-assessing, leveraging expertise in English Language Acquisition phases.
Deliver differentiated instruction to address the diverse linguistic, cultural, and academic needs of multilingual learners.
Utilize formative and summative assessments to guide instruction and suggest scaffolds that enhance students’ proficiency in reading, writing, speaking, and listening through authentic learning experiences.
Incorporate academic language growth, transdisciplinary literacy skills, and Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills throughout MYP subject areas.
Establish language development objectives for students using comprehensive data to support their progress through individualized and small group instruction.
Assist students in co-creating and reflecting on their personal language learning objectives.
Provide timely and constructive feedback to students and families to boost language proficiency and academic performance.
Foster a culture of student agency.
Collaborate with classroom teachers, Student Support Team members, and leadership to ensure cohesive and inclusive learning experiences.
Participate in grade-level, department, and student support team meetings to promote holistic learning.
Work effectively with parents and colleagues regarding student progress and strategies for support.
Contribute to the school’s inclusive learning environment by advocating for equitable curriculum access for multilingual learners.
Engage in school-wide initiatives, extracurricular programs, and professional learning communities.
Adhere to the school’s mission, vision, and child safeguarding standards.
QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE:
Bachelor’s degree in Education, English Language Acquisition, English, or a related field (Master’s preferred).
Teaching certification or license.
At least two years of teaching experience; EAL experience preferred; IB MYP experience preferred.
Strong grasp of second language acquisition and differentiated instruction.
Excellent communication and intercultural skills.
Collaborative, adaptable, and committed to growth.
VALUES
At Vientiane International School, we uphold diversity, inclusivity, respect, integrity, responsibility, empathy, and compassion. The ideal candidate should embody these values and be dedicated to enhancing student wellbeing through personalized support that nurtures both social-emotional growth and academic achievement.
WHAT WE OFFER:
A supportive, collegial, and innovative learning environment.
Professional development opportunities, including IB training.
A competitive compensation and benefits package.
The chance to live and work in the vibrant and beautiful country of Laos.
If you meet the qualifications and resonate with our values at Vientiane International School, we invite you to apply for this exciting opportunity!