Head of Secondary School

Job Overview
Bahlool British International School, a well-established British international school in Baghdad, is seeking an experienced and dynamic Head of Secondary.

The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in leading the Secondary phase, driving high standards of teaching and learning, and contributing to the strategic development of the school. This is an exciting opportunity to lead the next stage of the school’s academic journey, building on the success of our first iGCSE cohort this academic year and preparing for the launch of A Levels from September.

This role is ideal for an ambitious and inspirational leader committed to delivering outstanding outcomes and establishing a strong Sixth Form provision within a growing international school.

The Role

The successful candidate will:

Provide strategic leadership and management of the Secondary phase, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning and achievement

Lead on curriculum development and implementation across Key Stage 3 and Key Stage 4, with the introduction of Key Stage 5 (A Levels) from September

Build on the success of the school’s first iGCSE cohort, ensuring strong outcomes and effective examination preparation

Lead the planning, development and successful launch of a high-quality A Level provision, including curriculum design, staffing and student pathways

Drive school improvement initiatives, including monitoring standards, data analysis and raising attainment across all secondary key stages

Ensure robust assessment systems aligned to international benchmarks and examination requirements

Support and develop staff through coaching, appraisal and targeted professional development, particularly in examination delivery

Ensure effective safeguarding, behaviour management and student wellbeing across the Secondary phase

Work collaboratively with the Principal and SLT on whole-school strategy, including post-16 growth and university pathways

Build strong relationships with parents, staff and the wider school community, particularly around examination expectations and post-16 progression

Contribute actively to the wider life and ethos of the school

Requirements

Bachelor’s degree in education or a relevant subject; a master’s degree in education or leadership is desirable

Recognised teaching qualification (QTS, PGCE or equivalent)

Significant teaching experience, including a minimum of 3–5 years within Secondary education

Proven experience in a leadership or management role within a school setting

Strong understanding of the British curriculum, including Key Stage 3, iGCSE and A Level pathways

Experience or strong understanding of launching or leading post-16 provision (desirable)

Strong strategic thinking and organisational skills with the ability to lead change initiatives

Experience in using data to drive improvement and raise attainment in examination classes

Commitment to safeguarding, child protection and promoting student wellbeing

Ability to foster a positive school culture and promote inclusive education

What We Offer

Competitive salary

Accommodation

Medical

Visa

Annual flight to home country

Safeguarding Statement

Bahlool British International School is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. We expect all staff, volunteers and partners to share this commitment and to uphold the highest standards of professional conduct at all times. All appointments are subject to rigorous safeguarding checks including enhanced background checks, verification of qualifications, references and ongoing suitability to work with children. Safeguarding is central to our culture, practice and decision-making.

Additional Information

Please note that this position is offered on an individual hire basis. The school is unable to provide dependent sponsorship, relocation support or employment opportunities for accompanying family members.