Head of Upper School

ABOUT
RD American School partners exclusively with Riverdale Country School - one of America's top-ranked private schools. We are more than an educational institution — we are an accelerator of learning. Our approach is grounded in cognitive science and modern pedagogy, empowering students to thrive in a complex, fast-changing world.

 

ROLE
The Head of Upper School provides strategic, academic, and pastoral leadership for the Upper School division of the school. The role ensures high-quality teaching and learning, student well-being, faculty development, and alignment with the school’s mission, vision, and international curriculum standards. This role will initially oversee middle school, with the opportunity to oversee high school as the school grows its enrollment.

 

JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

Leadership & Strategy

• Provide visionary leadership for the Upper School, fostering a culture of excellence, inclusion, and continuous improvement.

• Contribute to whole-school strategic planning and policy development as a member of the senior leadership team.

• Ensure alignment between Upper School practices and the school’s mission, values, and international ethos.

Academic Oversight

• Oversee the implementation and evaluation of the Upper School curriculum.

• Monitor student academic performance and ensure high standards of teaching, learning, and assessment.

• Lead curriculum development initiatives and ensure compliance with accreditation requirements.

Faculty Leadership & Development

• Recruit, mentor, evaluate, and support Upper School faculty.

• Promote professional growth through coaching, appraisal systems, and targeted professional development.

• Foster a collaborative and high-performing teaching team.

Student Welfare & Discipline

• Oversee student pastoral care, well-being, and safeguarding.

• Manage student behavior, discipline, and attendance in accordance with school policies.

• Support student leadership, engagement, and holistic development.

Parent & Community Engagement

• Build strong relationships with parents and guardians through effective communication and collaboration.

• Represent the Upper School in school events, meetings, and external forums.

• Address parent concerns professionally and constructively.

Operational Management

• Manage Upper School schedules, timetables, and daily operations.

• Collaborate with counselling, learning support, and administrative teams to meet diverse student needs.

• Ensure a safe, orderly, and positive learning environment

REQUIREMENTS

·       Minimum of 10 years of experience in education, with substantial experience in an international school setting.

·       At least 5 years in a similar leadership role (e.g., Head of Upper School, Deputy Head, Principal, or equivalent).

·       Proven experience leading Upper School programs and managing faculty teams.

·       Strong instructional leadership and curriculum knowledge.

·       Excellent communication, interpersonal, and organizational skills.

·       Demonstrated ability to lead diverse, multicultural communities.

·       Sound judgment, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.

·       Commitment to student-centered learning and international-mindedness.

Preferred Attributes

·       Experience with international accreditation bodies.

·       Familiarity with multiple international curricula.

·       Experience and proven success supporting middle school students and faculty.

·       Strong commitment to professional ethics and safeguarding standards.

·       Adaptable to a fast-paced international school environment.

At RD American School, you’ll be part of a forward-thinking team shaping the future of education. You’ll have the opportunity to innovate, lead, and make a meaningful impact on learners and families across the region.

Apply exclusively via the WhatSchool platform.