Director of Studies in Malta

At International House Malta, we believe that learning English should be a transformational experience. Our goal is not simply to teach English, but to ensure that every student makes meaningful, measurable progress throughout their learning journey.

We are looking for an experienced Director of Studies who shares this vision. Someone who believes that outstanding student outcomes begin with outstanding teachers and who is passionate about creating a culture of continuous professional development, academic excellence and innovation.

About the role

The Director of Studies is responsible for the overall leadership and day-to-day management of the Academic Department, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching, learning and academic administration across the school.

This is a hands-on leadership role combining academic management, teacher development, quality assurance and programme development. The successful candidate will inspire teachers, support students and play a key role in shaping the academic direction of the school.

Key responsibilities

Academic leadership

1. Lead and oversee all formal academic matters, ensuring consistently high standards of teaching and learning.
2. Develop and monitor the school’s academic plan, including academic standards, learning outcomes, assessment processes and student progression.
3. Identify students’ English language learning needs and ensure they are placed in suitable classes and programmes.
4. Design, implement and regularly review course syllabuses, assessment procedures and teaching materials.
5. Ensure students make meaningful and measurable progress through regular assessment, monitoring and constructive feedback.
6. Maintain a hands-on connection with teaching and learning through an appropriate teaching load and classroom cover when required.

Teacher training and staff development

1. Lead the recruitment, induction, guidance and performance management of ELT teachers.
2. Develop and deliver a structured programme of in-service training and Continuing Professional Development.
3. Conduct regular developmental classroom observations, providing clear, practical and constructive feedback.
4. Mentor and support teachers at different stages of their careers.
5. Identify individual and school-wide development needs and create relevant training opportunities.
6. Promote a professional culture where teachers are encouraged to reflect, collaborate and continuously improve.
7. Ensure all academic staff hold valid teaching permits and meet the applicable professional requirements.

Student progress and academic administration

1. Oversee placement testing, needs analysis, progress testing, final assessments and certification.
2. Monitor student attendance, academic progress, feedback and satisfaction.
3. Address academic concerns and complaints from students, parents and other relevant stakeholders.
4. Maintain complete and accurate academic records, including attendance, assessment results, course documentation and teacher development records.
5. Oversee timetabling, class formation and teacher allocation, ensuring the effective use of academic resources.

Programme and strategic development

1. Contribute to the development and implementation of new courses, specialised programmes and academic projects.
2. Support the development of exam preparation and teacher training programmes.
3. Provide academic input for prospective student, agent and corporate enquiries when required.
4. Contribute academic content to school communications and promotional materials.
5. Take an active role in internal training, academic events, conferences and professional development activities.
6. Work closely with the School Director and other departments to ensure that academic quality supports the school’s strategic and operational objectives.

Quality assurance and compliance

1. Ensure compliance with all applicable licensing, regulatory and quality assurance requirements.
2. Maintain accurate documentation and ensure the Academic Department remains ready for inspections and quality reviews.
3. Complete all required academic reporting accurately and within the required deadlines.
4. Represent the school’s academic interests with external organisations and professional partners.

Who we are looking for

The successful candidate will:

1. be an inspiring teacher trainer with experience delivering CPD, mentoring teachers and conducting developmental observations
2. believe that teacher development is one of the most important responsibilities of a Director of Studies
3. be committed to ensuring students make meaningful, measurable progress throughout their course
4. lead by example and promote high academic standards across the school
5. be organised, approachable and confident managing both staff and students
6. have excellent interpersonal, coaching and communication skills
7. enjoy creating a collaborative academic culture where teachers are encouraged to innovate and continuously improve
8. have strong knowledge of exam preparation and assessment
9. be proactive, solutions-focused and able to balance academic excellence with the operational needs of the school