Deputy Head Senior School Job

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a distinguished independent institution in Johannesburg with a rich 123-year history, is currently seeking a dynamic and experienced professional to join their team as the Deputy Head Senior School, focusing on pedagogy and operational leadership. This significant leadership role is set to commence on 1 May 2026, offering an exciting opportunity for someone passionate about educational excellence and school management. If you have a solid background in senior leadership within a school environment and a commitment to values-based education, this could be an ideal next step in your career.

Key vacancy details

• School name: St Andrew’s School for Girls
• Position: Deputy Head Senior School: Pedagogy & Operational Leadership
• Start date: 1 May 2026
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Reporting to: Senior School and Executive Head
• Curriculum experience: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered an advantage.
• Key responsibilities: Overseeing a broad spectrum of pedagogy and day-to-day administrative and operational functions, including communication, supporting the school’s restorative approach to student discipline, assisting with staff recruitment, onboarding and performance management, and teaching a reduced load of classes.
• Required qualifications & experience:
  • Suitable academic and professional qualifications.
  • Current SACE registration.
  • At least 5 – 10 years’ experience in a deputy head or head of department position.
  • Computer literacy and experience using technology in teaching practice.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a team and under pressure.
  • Preparedness to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities.
  • Commitment to servant leadership.
  • Upholding the ethos and traditions of the school and appreciating a values-driven, Christian environment.
  • Willingness to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register.
• Closing date for applications: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.

Simple summary of the vacancy

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a well-established independent school in Johannesburg, is on the lookout for an exceptional individual to fill the role of Deputy Head Senior School, focusing specifically on pedagogy and operational leadership. This is a crucial leadership position reporting directly to the Senior School and Executive Head, with a start date planned for 1 May 2026.

The school prides itself on its 123-year heritage, offering a values-based education that aims to empower girls to become impactful members of society. They are also committed to fostering diversity and social justice. The ideal candidate will be a dynamic, passionate, and professional leader who can uphold these values and contribute significantly to the school’s continued success. Experience with the IEB curriculum would be a definite advantage, reflecting the academic environment of the school.

This role is comprehensive, involving oversight of teaching methodologies, daily administrative tasks, communication, and supporting student discipline through a restorative approach. The Deputy Head will also play a part in staff management, from recruitment to performance, and will be expected to teach a reduced number of classes. Beyond the academic and administrative duties, candidates must be team players with excellent interpersonal skills, embodying servant leadership and a commitment to the school’s Christian ethos. If you are looking for fulfilling teaching jobs that offer significant leadership responsibilities and align with a strong values-driven community, this opportunity at St Andrew’s School for Girls could be a perfect fit.

How to apply for this post

If you meet the requirements and are interested in this position, please follow these steps:

• Prepare a concise, two-page curriculum vitae (CV).
• Ensure your CV includes details for two contactable references.
• Email your application to [email protected].
• Additionally, you must fill in the online form available at: DEPUTY HEAD SENIOR SCHOOL – Fill in form.
• Submit your application before the closing date: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
• Please note, this position is open to South African citizens only. The school reserves the right not to proceed with the post, and only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Questions and answers for a potential candidate

• Q: What kind of school is St Andrew’s School for Girls?
  A: It is a 123-year-old independent school for girls in Johannesburg, known for its values-based education and strong traditions within a Christian environment.
• Q: What are the primary focuses of this Deputy Head role?
  A: The role primarily focuses on pedagogy (teaching and learning strategies) and the operational leadership of the Senior School, ensuring smooth daily functioning and academic excellence.
• Q: What academic and professional qualifications are essential?
  A: Candidates must possess suitable academic and professional qualifications, along with current registration with SACE (South African Council for Educators).
• Q: Is prior experience as a Deputy Head mandatory?
  A: While not strictly mandatory as a “Deputy Head,” candidates must have at least 5-10 years’ experience in a senior leadership position such as a deputy head or head of department.
• Q: How important is IEB curriculum experience for this vacancy?
  A: Experience with the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) curriculum and assessment standards is considered a significant advantage, demonstrating familiarity with the school’s academic framework.
• Q: What is the school’s approach to student discipline?
  A: The school supports a restorative approach to student discipline, focusing on repairing harm and building relationships rather than solely punitive measures.
• Q: Will the Deputy Head be involved in teaching?
  A: Yes, the successful candidate will be required to teach a reduced load of classes, allowing them to remain connected to the core educational mission.
• Q: What does “servant leadership” mean in the context of this role?
  A: Servant leadership implies inspiring, motivating, and empathising at all levels, putting the needs of the staff and students first to foster a supportive and collaborative environment.
• Q: How does the school view technology in teaching?
  A: The school expects candidates to be computer literate and to have experience using technology effectively in their teaching practice, aligning with modern educational approaches.
• Q: What is the school’s commitment to diversity?
  A: St Andrew’s School for Girls is committed to increasing diversity and contributing to establishing a society based on democratic values, social justice, and fundamental human rights.
• Q: Are there any specific legal requirements for this position?
  A: Yes, candidates will be required to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and the Sexual Offences Register.
• Q: What makes a candidate stand out during the application process?
  A: Demonstrating strong leadership experience, excellent interpersonal and communication skills, a proven ability to manage operations and pedagogy, and a genuine alignment with the school’s values and Christian ethos will make an applicant highly desirable.
• Q: Can I apply if I am not a South African citizen?
  A: No, the vacancy explicitly states that applications are invited only from South African citizens.
• Q: What is the school’s general website for more information?
  A: You can find more details about the school at their official website: https://www.standrews.co.za.

You can find the original vacancy details at this vacancy source.