Consultant for Developing a Framework for Preparatory Programme

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, established in 1946, operates in over 190 countries and territories with a mission to save children's lives, defend their rights, and help them fulfill their potential. The organization is committed to promoting the rights of every child and offers diverse opportunities for professional and personal development to its staff. UNICEF is known for its inclusive culture and attractive compensation and benefits package, emphasizing the importance of belonging and growth within the organization.

Job Overview:
The consultancy aims to support the Ministry of Education and Research (MER) in Moldova in developing a comprehensive framework for a preparatory programme aimed at foreign children, including refugees, integrating into Romanian-speaking schools. This framework will serve as an official guideline for schools to implement intensive preparatory programmes that equip non-Romanian-speaking students with the necessary language competencies and learning skills to join the mainstream education system. The consultant will be responsible for producing a standardized programme outline that includes curriculum structure, recommended learning hours, teaching methodologies, and teacher training needs. Additionally, the consultant will propose an evaluation system that aligns with national standards and integrates into the official school grading system, ensuring a coherent and equitable approach to education for all students in Moldova.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key tasks under the supervision of the MER and in close coordination with UNICEF. These tasks include conducting a needs assessment and review, developing a work plan and consultation strategy, creating a curriculum structure and content, designing teaching methodologies and materials, and establishing an evaluation system that includes an entry-level assessment, ongoing assessments, and a final certification mechanism. The consultant will also be responsible for teacher training and capacity building, drafting the framework document, and facilitating stakeholder consultation and validation processes to finalize the framework.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (master’s or higher) in Education, Language Education, Social Sciences, or a related field. Formal training in teaching Romanian or another language as a second/foreign language is considered an asset. A minimum of 5 years of experience in instructional design or education programme development is required, with a strong preference for candidates who have experience with language education programmes or second-language learners. Experience in curriculum development and developing educational frameworks or policy-level guidelines is highly desirable, ideally at a national or institutional level. Familiarity with the Moldovan education system or other Eastern European educational contexts is advantageous, as is experience working with the Government of the Republic of Moldova in developing education strategies.

Educational Background:
The position requires an advanced university degree (master’s or higher) in relevant fields such as Education, Language Education, Social Sciences, or related disciplines. Additional formal training in teaching Romanian or another language as a second/foreign language is beneficial and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in instructional design or education programme development. Experience specifically related to language education programmes or working with second-language learners is strongly preferred. Additionally, candidates with a background in curriculum development and those who have worked on educational frameworks or policy-level guidelines will be at an advantage. Familiarity with inclusive education practices and the Moldovan education system is also desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in Romanian, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of English is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication and documentation processes within the consultancy.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to be performed remotely, with no in-country travel anticipated. However, if unforeseen travel is required, it will be discussed and agreed upon in advance, with travel costs covered by UNICEF. The consultant will work under the direct supervision of the UNICEF Education Specialist, who will provide guidance and support throughout the consultancy. The performance of the consultant will be evaluated based on the completion of tasks, compliance with deadlines, quality of work, and cooperation with UNICEF and relevant stakeholders. UNICEF promotes a diverse and inclusive workplace and encourages applications from all qualified candidates, regardless of background.