Head of Upper School (Years 9-11) - August 2026

King’s College Doha is on the lookout for a motivated, highly qualified, and dedicated professional to join its Senior School as the Head of Upper School starting August 2026. Situated on the renowned Mesaimeer campus, the chosen applicant will report to the Deputy Head Pastoral and will be tasked with overseeing the pastoral care, academic advancement, and unique requirements of all students in Years 9-11.

In addition, this role will play a crucial part in shaping the strategic direction of the Senior School by working closely with the Deputy Head Academic, Deputy Head Pastoral, and the Head of Sixth Form (Years 12-13).

About Cognita:
Cognita stands as a global authority in independent education. Established in 2004, we encompass a thriving network of over 100 schools across 16 countries, including Europe, North America, Latin America, Asia, and the Middle East, serving more than 85,000 students. Each school within our community has its own distinct character, yet we share a common mission: to cultivate an environment where individuals can “Thrive in a rapidly evolving world.”

At Cognita, we recognize the uniqueness of each student. We nurture their individual personalities and strengths, providing support academically, socially, and emotionally, regardless of their starting point. We safeguard their unique qualities while equipping them with a wealth of knowledge, opportunities, and best practices. They become part of something larger, receiving an education that is truly world-class.

About King’s College Doha:
King’s College Doha delivers an exceptional UK-style independent school education to the international community in Qatar, set in some of the region's finest facilities. Since its successful launch in September 2016, the school has established itself among the leading institutions in Doha.

Our partnership with our UK sister school, King’s College Taunton, is a significant asset. Collaborative efforts in vision and ethos, curriculum development, professional growth, and co-curricular opportunities ensure that we uphold high educational standards. Through this partnership, both students and educators in Doha gain from the expertise and reputation built by King’s College UK over the past 150 years.

King’s College Doha offers:
• A premium, diverse British curriculum in an international context;
• Academic excellence for all students;
• Exceptional pastoral care and personal development opportunities;
• A wide array of co-curricular activities that enrich the school day.

We integrate a strong academic focus with a comprehensive co-curriculum, providing students with a fulfilling and extended school experience. Our commitment to pastoral care is fundamental; we believe that children achieve their potential when they feel happy, supported, and comfortable in their environment. All staff members strive to foster a strong community spirit and promote supportive relationships, ensuring that every child knows they have someone to turn to.

Currently, King’s College Doha serves over 1,700 children aged 3 to 18 (Pre-School to Year 13) and will continue to grow as we expand our Sixth Form.
• Pre-Prep: Pre-School (EY1) – Year 2
• Prep: Year 3 – Year 8
• Senior School: Year 9 – Year 13

Our campuses are conveniently located in the Al Thumama and Mesaimeer districts, easily reachable from all areas of Doha and just a twenty-minute drive from the city center. Our impressive facilities for the Prep and Senior School include a dedicated library, a central atrium, science laboratories, an art and design center, music and drama classrooms, multiple computer labs, a sports hall, a swimming pool, and extensive outdoor sports areas. The Pre-Prep Campus is equipped with equally impressive child-centered facilities, specifically designed for younger pupils.

Recently, King’s College Doha achieved the highest accolade from the Qatar National Schools Accreditation and is a member of the British Schools of the Middle East (BSME). The Ministry of Education rates King’s College Doha among the top schools in the region.

Role Purpose:
King’s College Doha is in search of an inspiring, well-qualified, and dedicated Head of Upper School for its Senior School, effective August 2026. Based in the iconic Mesaimeer campus, the appointed individual will be responsible to the Deputy Head Pastoral for managing the pastoral care, academic progression, and individualized needs of students in Years 9-11.

Key Responsibilities
Leadership and Management
• The Head of Upper School will oversee the daily management of the Heads of Years 9-11.
• Inspire, mentor, and develop departmental staff through strong leadership and professional development initiatives.
• Drive curriculum planning and innovation in alignment with the school’s mission and forward-looking educational practices.
• Ensure consistently high teaching and learning standards are upheld for optimal student outcomes.

Skills and Expertise
• Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills, with the ability to connect with individuals at all levels, resolve conflicts sensitively, and motivate others.
• Capacity to work effectively within an academic leadership team, demonstrating initiative and creativity, inspiring others in the process.
• Strong organizational abilities, remaining composed under pressure and meeting tight deadlines.
• Excellent problem-solving skills paired with a proactive and positive attitude towards change management.

Person Specification
(Essential=E, Desirable= D)
• A genuine passion for working with and being around children. (E)
• At least four years of relevant teaching experience. (E)
• Recognized teaching qualification. (E)
• Strong leadership and organizational capabilities. (E)
• Experience in an international or independent school setting. (D)
• Experience teaching students with English as an Additional Language. (D)

Personal Qualities:
• Ability to foster a love for learning and performance.
• Strong communication and teamwork abilities.
• High energy, creativity, and a positive, proactive mindset.
• Commitment to active participation in school life.

Professional Expectations
As a member of King’s College Doha, you will:
• Uphold professionalism, integrity, honesty, and transparency in all actions.
• Comply with the Qatari Code of Ethics.
• Participate in whole-school self-evaluation and improvement initiatives.
• Attend meetings, parent events, curriculum evenings, and school functions.
• Collaborate effectively, supporting collective leadership decisions.
• Promote a strong ethos of “we are better together” throughout the school community.

Our Offer:
The successful applicant will receive an accommodation allowance, private medical coverage, flight allowances, an end-of-service gratuity, and a competitive tax-free salary. Additionally, there will be a strong commitment to supporting the professional development and career aspirations of successful candidates.

To apply, please submit your application via the TES online application form; only fully completed applications will be considered. Ensure you include your current, updated CV.

Interviews will be conducted online or in person.

The school reserves the right to interview and appoint exceptional candidates prior to the official closing date, thus we encourage early applications.

Thank you for considering a position at King’s College Doha. Due to the anticipated high volume of applications, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

King’s College Doha and Cognita are dedicated to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expect the same commitment from all employees. All new hires will undergo thorough and enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity verification, criminal background checks for all countries of residence, qualification verification, employment history checks—covering any gaps in employment—and satisfactory reference checks for all positions held in the last 10 years.