Head of Academic Services

The Head of Academic Services is responsible for providing strategic leadership and oversight of academic support programs at the school, which include Guidance, University & Career Guidance, Special Education Needs (SEN), and the English as a Second Language / English Immersion Programme (ESL/EIP). This role ensures compliance with local regulatory standards and requirements.

This position guarantees that all academic support initiatives align with the school’s educational philosophy, compliance mandates, and goals for student achievement. Effective collaboration with academic leaders, educators, parents, and external partners is crucial to addressing the academic, social-emotional, and language development needs of students.

Key Responsibilities

1. Strategic Leadership & Programme Oversight

• Provide comprehensive leadership and direction for the Guidance, Special Education Needs (SEN), and English as a Second Language / English Immersion Programme (ESL/EIP) services.
• Develop and implement policies, procedures, and frameworks that enable effective academic support.
• Ensure that academic services are aligned with school improvement strategies and accreditation standards.
• Assess program effectiveness through data analysis, reporting, and continuous improvement initiatives.

2. Guidance & Counselling

• Lead the school’s Guidance and Counselling program, ensuring it aligns with the school’s vision, safeguarding policies, and compliance standards.
• Oversee the development and implementation of counselling frameworks that support students’ academic, social-emotional, and behavioral growth.
• Supervise and mentor Guidance Counsellors to maintain professional standards, ethical practices, and high-quality service.
• Establish systems for the early identification and intervention of students requiring academic or emotional support.
• Ensure accurate documentation, maintain confidentiality, and adhere to data protection and safeguarding protocols.
• Evaluate counselling caseloads, program effectiveness, and student outcomes through data-informed assessments.

3. Special Education (SEN)

• Oversee the processes for identifying, assessing, and supporting students with learning needs.
• Ensure the effective creation, implementation, and review of Individual Education Plans (IEPs).
• Collaborate with teachers to foster inclusive classroom environments.
• Coordinate with external specialists and relevant authorities as needed.
• Ensure compliance with educational regulations and safeguarding standards.

4. ESL / EIP (English as a Second Language / English Immersion Programme)

• Supervise the placement, assessment, and progress of students within the ESL/EIP framework.
• Evaluate curriculum alignment and the effectiveness of language acquisition strategies.
• Ensure smooth transition pathways for students moving from ESL/EIP to mainstream programs.
• Assist teachers in developing differentiation strategies for multilingual learners.

5. Team Leadership & Management

• Lead, supervise, and mentor the Academic Services staff.
• Conduct performance evaluations and provide professional development opportunities.
• Foster a collaborative, student-centered team environment.
• Oversee budgeting and resource allocation for academic support services.

6. Compliance & Quality Assurance

• Ensure compliance with Cambridge/Canadian/IBDP, Ministry of Education, and Ministry of Ontario inspection and accreditation standards.
• Maintain accurate records and documentation for audits and inspections.
• Draft and review policies to ensure alignment with regulatory expectations.
• Lead preparations for external inspections related to academic services.

7. Stakeholder Engagement

• Serve as the primary liaison between Academic Services and the school’s leadership team.
• Communicate effectively with parents regarding student support plans.
• Collaborate with educators and Heads of Department to ensure cohesive delivery of support initiatives.

Apply via the WhatSchool platform.