Head of Secondary

Job Description

1. Role Overview

The Head of Secondary School holds a crucial strategic and operational position and is a key member of the School Leadership Team (SLT). The SLT collectively shares responsibility for all aspects of the school, focusing on the education and development of both students and staff. While each member has specific areas of concentration, collaboration is essential to support one another and advance the school’s overarching mission.

2. Key Responsibilities

· Promote outstanding teaching and learning, creating an environment that prioritizes student needs in every decision-making process.

· Oversee student safeguarding within the school, in alignment with the EIM safeguarding framework, policies, and code of conduct, in collaboration with the Principal.

· Ensure that the school adheres to the highest standards of Health and Safety, partnering with the Principal and the Director of Business and Administration.

· Manage the school’s day-to-day operations, including resource allocation and budget management.

· Provide support, guidance, and leadership, acting as a role model for best practices among all staff.

· Acknowledge and address the diverse needs of all stakeholders within the school community.

3. Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate will be an inspiring and progressive leader who can engage staff and stakeholders in fulfilling the school’s objectives. They will exhibit leadership qualities and strong ethical values through their actions and daily interactions. The successful candidate will build strong connections with the community, serve as a respected representative of the school, motivate others, and guide the path to exceptional academic success within a comprehensive educational framework.

Key skills, experience, and attributes include:

3.1 Qualifications

Essential

· A university degree with honors, a recognized teaching qualification, and proof of ongoing professional development.

Desirable

· An advanced degree in education; current or pursuing the National Professional Qualification for Headship (NPQH) or the International Leadership and Management Programme (ILMP) or a similar credential.

3.2 Experience

Essential

· A deep commitment and passion for enhancing student learning.

· Experience in a leadership role within a school, with responsibilities related to curriculum development, student well-being, or personnel management.

· Background in an international or independent/private educational setting.

· A proven history of developing and implementing school quality improvement initiatives that enhance student achievement.

· Broad professional knowledge of curriculum, quality management, school organization, and current educational challenges.

· Successful experience in building partnerships and effectively communicating with parents and the broader community.

· Demonstrated capability to support, motivate, lead, and manage staff effectively.

· Proficient in representing the school to students and parents.

· Strong organizational and administrative skills, with experience in effective resource management.

· Skills in coaching and mentoring.

Desirable

· Experience in an international educational environment.

· Familiarity with A-Level programs.

· Background in IGCSE programs.

· Understanding of diverse cultures, particularly within China.