French Language Specialist for Gap Year Program (Brix, France)

Location: Brix, France

School Name: Berridge Programs

Status: Full Time

Level: Other

Contact: Andrea Mardon, andrea@berridgeprograms.com

Description: Role Overview:

Berridge Programs is seeking to hire a French Language Specialist for our creative gap year programs in Normandy, France. This is a fully residential position that provides an opportunity to live in community and provide French conversational language lessons at all levels to our English speaking students ages 18-22. As the French Language Specialist, you will not only teach language skills but also serve as a cultural educator, offering insights into French language, art, and customs that students can integrate into their daily lives while abroad. You will serve as a key member of the community, connecting students to the cultural riches of French society.

As a French Language Specialist, you will also assist with program logistics that require a French speaker, including making restaurant reservations, arranging tours, and confirming transportation.

Berridge Programs values diversity, equity, and inclusion. We encourage applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds and experiences, including race, ethnicity, gender, sexual identity, socioeconomic status, nationality, physical ability, religious beliefs, age, and experience.

Key Responsibilities:

Develop engaging and comprehensive lessons on French culture, social norms, customs, and polite phrases to enhance student integration into French life.
Serve as a positive role model to program participants (age 18-22.)
Conduct interactive small group sessions (4-6 students) twice weekly, focusing on basic French conversation for beginners and intermediates. Topics include introductions, restaurant interactions, and basic counting.
Provide personalized one-on-one conversational lessons for advanced students, tailored to their experience level.
Assist with French language bookings when necessary, such as restaurant reservations, tour arrangements, and transportation confirmations, ensuring smooth communication and experiences for our students.
Lead dynamic evening French Club sessions twice a week, fostering immersive French-only conversations centered around topics like films, literature, politics, or philosophy.
Contribute to and immerse yourself in the vibrant life of our creative community, enriching the overall experience for students and fellow staff members alike.

Required Qualifications:

Fluency in French and English.
Bachelor’s Degree in French language or related field preferred; consideration for native speakers with teaching experience.
Teaching credentials advantageous but not mandatory.
Experience living, working, studying, or traveling in France ideal.
Experience in group residential, camp, or educational settings preferred.
Experience or interest working with students age 17-22.

Desired Skills/Experiences:

Experience or leadership in study abroad, gap year, outdoor education, camp settings or similar programs beneficial.
5+ years driving experience with clean record, manual transmission proficiency advantageous.
Comfort driving a 9-passenger van.
Interest in the arts.
Outgoing and positive.
Well-organized.
Basic computer skills.
Eager to work in a dynamic setting.
Ability to mentor young adults as a positive role model.
Self-directed, proactive, adept at multitasking and problem-solving.
Proficient in professional written and verbal communication
Patient and compassionate in student interactions.
Capable of managing stress, maintaining a positive attitude during crises, and fostering strong teamwork.
Genuine passion, curiosity, and ability to connect with students from diverse backgrounds.
Demonstrated proficiency in intercultural communication and navigating culturally sensitive travel situations.
Enjoys living in community in a residential program.

Why Join Us:

If you’re passionate about guiding students through immersive cultural experiences and have a deep appreciation for French art and culture, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity. At Berridge Programs, we offer a vibrant work atmosphere that prioritizes challenges, rewards, and top-tier support for our students and their families. Join us in shaping meaningful experiences, equipping students with essential life skills, and fostering personal growth in a dynamic and culturally rich environment.

How to Apply:

Complete the online application found here: https://form.jotform.com/241296991076164. Please include your resume in the space provided on the online application. If you have any questions about employment at Berridge Programs, please contact Andrea Mardon, Executive Director at andrea@berridgeprograms.com