Deputy Head Senior School Job

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a distinguished 123-year-old independent institution in Johannesburg, is seeking to appoint a dedicated and dynamic Deputy Head for its Senior School. This pivotal role, focusing on pedagogy and operational leadership, is scheduled to commence on 1 May 2026. The school is looking for a passionate professional to join its team, upholding its values-based education and rich heritage while contributing to a diverse and just society. If you are an experienced educational leader with a commitment to excellence and a servant leadership approach, this opportunity offers a chance to shape the future of young women in a vibrant academic environment. You can find more details about this specific vacancy and other teaching jobs by exploring the provided links.

Detailed list of the vacancy

• School name: St Andrew’s School for Girls
• Position: Deputy Head Senior School: Pedagogy & Operational Leadership
• Start date: 1 May 2026
• Closing date for applications: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Reporting to: Senior School and Executive Head
• Curriculum experience: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is an advantage.
• Key requirements:
  • Suitable academic and professional qualifications.
  • Current SACE registration.
  • 5 – 10 years’ experience in a deputy head or head of department position.
  • Ability to work effectively as part of a leadership and management team.
  • Proficiency in computer literacy and use of technology in teaching.
  • Willingness to teach a reduced load of classes.
  • Preparedness to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities.
  • Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation.
  • Subscription to the paradigm of servant leadership.
  • Strong verbal and written communication skills.
  • Self-motivated and able to work under pressure.
  • Commitment to upholding the school’s ethos, traditions, and values (Christian environment).
  • Willingness to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register.
• Key responsibilities:
  • Overseeing the broad spectrum of pedagogy.
  • Managing 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.

Simple summary of the vacancy

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a well-established independent institution with a 123-year legacy in Johannesburg, is on the lookout for a Deputy Head for its Senior School. This significant leadership role, slated to begin in May 2026, is designed for a dynamic individual who can expertly blend pedagogical oversight with effective operational management. The successful candidate will play a crucial part in maintaining the school’s high standards of values-based education and fostering an environment that empowers young women to become impactful members of society, both locally and globally. The school prides itself on its strong traditions, Christian values, and a commitment to diversity and social justice.

The role requires someone with substantial leadership experience in an educational setting, ideally with familiarity with the IEB curriculum. Beyond academic and professional qualifications, the school values excellent interpersonal skills, a dedication to servant leadership, and an ability to manage various administrative tasks efficiently. While the position involves a leadership focus, the Deputy Head will also maintain a reduced teaching load and actively participate in the school’s co-curricular life. This is a unique opportunity for a leader who is passionate about education and ready to contribute to a school that shapes future generations.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a concise two-page CV.
• Ensure your CV includes the contact details of two professional references.
• Email your application to [email protected].
• Additionally, complete the online application form available at: Deputy Head Senior School – Fill in form.
• Ensure both your email and online form submission are completed by the closing date: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
• It is important to note that only South African citizens will be considered for this position.
• For further details, you can refer to this vacancy’s original posting.

Institution details

• Website: www.standrews.co.za (Inferred from email domain)
• Address: Not explicitly provided in the vacancy text, but the school is located in Johannesburg.

Q&A for potential candidates

• Q: What academic and professional qualifications are essential for this Deputy Head Senior School role?
  A: You will need suitable academic and professional qualifications, typically a relevant degree and postgraduate qualification in education. A strong academic background is crucial for leadership in teaching jobs like this.
• Q: Is SACE registration a mandatory requirement?
  A: Yes, a current SACE (South African Council for Educators) registration is absolutely essential for all teaching roles in South Africa, including this leadership position.
• Q: What level of experience is the school looking for in a candidate?
  A: The school requires candidates to have at least 5 to 10 years of experience in a deputy head or head of department position, demonstrating a proven track record in educational leadership.
• Q: How important is experience with the IEB curriculum?
  A: While not strictly mandatory, experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards will be considered a significant advantage, as the school operates within this framework.
• Q: What does ‘servant leadership’ entail in this context?
  A: Servant leadership means inspiring, motivating, and empathising with colleagues, parents, and students at all levels, placing their needs and growth at the forefront of your leadership approach.
• Q: Will the Deputy Head still be involved in teaching?
  A: Yes, the successful candidate will be expected to teach a reduced load of classes, ensuring they maintain direct engagement with students and the pedagogical environment.
• Q: Are extra-curricular contributions expected?
  A: Absolutely. Candidates must be prepared to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities, as these are an integral part of the holistic education offered by the school.
• Q: What is meant by the ‘restorative approach’ to student discipline?
  A: A restorative approach focuses on repairing harm and relationships rather than solely on punishment. It involves engaging students in understanding the impact of their actions and taking responsibility.
• Q: How can I demonstrate that I am a preferred candidate for this role?
  A: To stand out, highlight your strong leadership experience, your commitment to a values-driven, Christian environment, your excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and your ability to foster academic excellence and operational efficiency. Show how your experience aligns with the school’s heritage and commitment to diversity.
• Q: What should I know about the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register clearance?
  A: The school is committed to safeguarding children. You will be required to apply for clearance with both the Child Protection Act and the Sexual Offences Register as part of the employment process, demonstrating your suitability to work with children.
• Q: Is computer literacy important for this position?
  A: Yes, being computer literate and having experience using technology effectively in your teaching practice and administrative duties is expected.
• Q: What are the school’s values?
  A: St Andrew’s School for Girls provides a values-based education, built on tradition and heritage within a Christian environment, committed to democratic values, social justice, and human rights.
• Q: What happens if my application doesn’t meet all the requirements?
  A: Failure to meet the advertised requirements will result in automatic disqualification from consideration. The school reserves the right not to proceed with the post and will only contact short-listed candidates for interviews.
• Q: How will my personal information be handled during the application process?
  A: In line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act), the school will ensure the confidentiality of all applicants. Personal information will be used solely for recruitment, selection, and reporting, and by applying, you are acknowledging and accepting this disclaimer.