Jess Dawson
DIRECTOR OF MFL
Jess joined the Trust in September 2024 as Director for Modern Foreign Languages. She is an experienced leader of MFL with a proven track record of positive GCSE outcomes and making language learning fun and engaging for all. With over five years of success in implementing Conti and EPI methodologies, Jess is dedicated to designing an aligned curriculum across the Trust that builds on this evidence-based approach to language learning.
As well as holding a BA in French and Arabic, Jess spent time living abroad, working in France and studying in Morocco. Throughout her teaching career, she has led in both pastoral and teaching and learning roles and has further enhanced her leadership skills by completing the NPQLT (National Professional Qualification for Leading Teaching) and is now working towards completion of the NPQSL (National Professional Qualification for Senior Leadership).
As part of her leadership roles, Jess has designed and delivered numerous bespoke professional development training sessions on curriculum design and delivery. These sessions have supported staff in refining their pedagogy and developing themselves as expert practitioners.
Jess prioritises a communication-first approach to develop students' confidence, incorporating real-life experiences to make language learning practical and meaningful. She is passionate about using evidence-based research and pedagogy to create a robust and engaging curriculum that is inclusive to all and driven by the strong belief that every child has the potential to excel in modern foreign language learning. Jess firmly believes that whilst, for many young people, language learning may start in the classroom, it extends to experiencing the wider world, empowering students to step confidently into life beyond school.