Kindergarten Homeroom Teacher

About the School

Changsha WES Academy is Hunan Province's premier international school, established in 2010 as the first English-medium international school approved by China's Ministry of Education

• Our bilingual academy provides quality international education with IB authorization, serving a diverse community of students from multiple countries and cultural backgrounds

• We are committed to developing internationally-minded students who are lifelong learners and responsible global citizens.

Position Overview

We are seeking a nurturing and experienced Kindergarten Homeroom Teacher to join our IBPYP early years programme. The successful candidate will create a warm, stimulating, and inquiry-based learning environment that fosters young children's social, emotional, cognitive, and physical development while implementing the IB Primary Years Programme framework.

Key Responsibilities

Teaching & Learning:

• Serve as homeroom teacher for kindergarten class

• Implement IBPYP curriculum framework and units of inquiry

• Deliver engaging, play-based, and inquiry-focused lessons

• Develop age-appropriate learning experiences across all subject areas

• Integrate language development (English) across the curriculum

• Use differentiated instruction to meet diverse learning needs

• Foster students' natural curiosity and love of learning

IBPYP Implementation:

• Plan and facilitate transdisciplinary units of inquiry

• Support students in developing Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills

• Integrate IB learner profile attributes into daily teaching

• Create opportunities for student agency and voice

• Document student learning through portfolios and learning stories

• Facilitate student-led conferences and exhibitions (as appropriate)

Child Development & Pastoral Care:

• Create a safe, nurturing, and inclusive classroom community

• Support children's social-emotional development

• Establish positive routines and classroom management strategies

• Build strong, respectful relationships with each child

• Address individual needs with patience and understanding

• Promote positive behavior and conflict resolution skills

• Ensure children's wellbeing and safety at all times

Assessment & Documentation:

• Observe and document children's learning and development

• Use formative assessment methods appropriate for young learners

• Maintain comprehensive portfolios and learning records

• Track progress against IBPYP learning outcomes

• Provide regular feedback to parents on child development

• Identify children needing additional support or extension

• Celebrate achievements and milestones

Parent Communication:

• Maintain regular, open communication with parents/guardians

• Conduct parent-teacher conferences and meetings

• Provide updates on child progress and classroom activities

• Address parent questions and concerns promptly

• Build positive partnerships with families

• Involve parents in classroom life and school community

• Support parents in understanding IBPYP philosophy

Classroom Management:

• Establish clear, consistent routines and expectations

• Create an organized, resource-rich learning environment

• Manage classroom with warmth, patience, and positive reinforcement

• Ensure classroom safety, cleanliness, and organization

• Organize materials, toys, books, and learning resources

• Display children's work and celebrate learning

• Maintain inventory of classroom supplies

Collaboration & Professional Development:

• Participate in grade-level team meetings and collaborative planning

• Work with colleagues on curriculum development and units of inquiry

• Collaborate with learning support staff for students with additional needs

• Engage in professional development and IB training

• Participate in school events, assemblies, and activities

• Contribute to school improvement initiatives

• Reflect on practice and seek continuous improvement

Qualifications & Requirements

Essential:

• Bachelor's degree in Early Childhood Education, Education, or related field

• Valid teaching certification/license from home country

• Minimum 2 years of teaching experience in kindergarten/early years

• Experience with IBPYP curriculum (strongly preferred)

• Understanding of child development (ages 3-6)

• Experience with inquiry-based and play-based learning approaches

• Excellent English communication skills (native or near-native)

• Strong classroom management and organizational skills

• Patience, creativity, and enthusiasm for working with young children

• Commitment to child-centered learning and holistic development

• Cultural sensitivity and adaptability

Preferred:

• IBPYP Category 1, 2, or 3 training

• Experience in international schools, particularly in Asia/China

• TEFL/TESOL certification or ELL specialization

• Familiarity with Reggio Emilia, Montessori, or other child-centered approaches

• Proficiency in educational technology appropriate for early years

• Experience with differentiated instruction and inclusive practices

• Basic Mandarin Chinese skills (helpful but not required)

• Knowledge of bilingual education principles

Personal Attributes:

• Warm, nurturing, and patient disposition

• Passionate about early childhood education

• Creative and imaginative teaching style

• Positive attitude and sense of humor

• Collaborative team player

• Reflective practitioner committed to improvement

• Strong communication and interpersonal skills

• Flexibility and adaptability

• Professionalism and integrity

• Commitment to IB philosophy and international-mindedness

Compensation & Benefits

• Salary: Competitive, based on qualifications and experience

• Housing: Furnished accommodation or housing allowance provided

• Flight Allowance: Annual round-trip airfare reimbursement

• Medical Insurance: Comprehensive health insurance coverage

• Paid Leave: Winter and summer vacations, plus Chinese public holidays

• Professional Development: Generous funding for IB training and early childhood education conferences

• Visa Support: Full assistance with work permit and residence permit

• Relocation Support: Assistance with settling in Changsha

• Resources: Budget for classroom materials and professional resources

About Changsha

Changsha offers an excellent quality of life for international educators:

• Culture: Rich 3,000-year history with vibrant arts and cultural scene

• Cost of Living: Very affordable compared to tier-1 cities, allowing for excellent savings

• Community: Growing international community with supportive networks

• Connectivity: Well-connected by high-speed rail to major Chinese cities

• Lifestyle: Comfortable living with modern amenities, delicious cuisine, and friendly locals

• Environment: Clean air, green spaces, and family-friendly environment