Deputy Head Senior School Job

An exciting and significant teaching jobs opportunity has arisen at the prestigious St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg, seeking a dedicated professional for the Deputy Head Senior School position, focusing on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. This role, commencing on 1 May 2026, is perfect for a dynamic leader with extensive experience in school management and a passion for values-based education. If you are keen to contribute to a school with a rich 123-year heritage and a commitment to empowering young women, further details about this impactful vacancy await you.

Vacancy key 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
• Application Deadline: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025
• Experience Required: At least 5–10 years in a deputy head or head of department position
• Curriculum Experience: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered an advantage.
• Professional Registration: Current SACE registration is essential.
• Child Protection: Willingness to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register.

About this teaching job opportunity

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a distinguished 123-year-old independent school located in Johannesburg, is on the lookout for a dynamic, passionate, and professional individual to fill the critical role of Deputy Head Senior School, with a specific focus on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. The school prides itself on a values-based education system and a strong brand built upon a rich tradition and heritage, dedicated to developing empowered young women for South Africa and the wider world. The successful candidate will report directly to both the Senior School and Executive Head.

This comprehensive role encompasses a broad spectrum of responsibilities, including overseeing pedagogical practices, managing day-to-day administrative and operational functions, and ensuring effective communication throughout the Senior School. The ideal candidate will support the school’s restorative approach to student discipline, assist with staff recruitment, onboarding, and performance management, and be proficient in using technology within their teaching practice. While the role involves leadership, the successful applicant will also teach a reduced load of classes and be expected to actively contribute to and attend co-curricular activities. Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation, along with strong verbal and written communication, are vital. The school values a paradigm of servant leadership, inspiring, motivating, and empathising at all levels. Candidates must be self-motivated, capable of working under pressure, and prepared to uphold the Christian ethos and traditions of the school. Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is a definite advantage for those applying for these demanding and rewarding teaching jobs.

How to apply for this post

If this position aligns with your skills and experience, please ensure your application is submitted by the deadline:

• Prepare a concise two-page Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Include details for two contactable references within your CV.
• Email your application to [email protected].
• Additionally, please complete the online application form available at: DEPUTY HEAD SENIOR SCHOOL – Fill in form.
• The closing date for applications is 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
• Please note that only South African citizens are eligible to apply. The school reserves the right not to proceed with this post, and only short-listed candidates will be contacted.

Institution details

• Name: St Andrew’s School for Girls
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
• Website: www.standrews.co.za

Questions and advice for preferred candidates

• What academic and professional qualifications are required? You will need suitable academic and professional qualifications relevant to a senior leadership role in a school.
• How much leadership experience is truly necessary? The school is looking for candidates with at least 5 to 10 years of experience in a deputy head or head of department position, indicating a strong track record in school leadership.
• Is experience with the IEB curriculum a strict requirement? While not strictly essential, experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is explicitly stated as an advantage, so highlighting any such experience will strengthen your application.
• What kind of leadership style is the school looking for? The school highly values a paradigm of servant leadership, expecting candidates to inspire, motivate, and empathise with colleagues, parents, and students at all levels.
• What are the expectations regarding co-curricular activities? You will be expected to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities, demonstrating a commitment to the holistic development of students beyond the classroom.
• How important is technology in this role? Being computer literate and having experience using technology in your teaching practice is a key requirement, reflecting the school’s modern approach to education.
• What is the school’s approach to student discipline? The successful candidate will support the school’s restorative approach to student discipline, focusing on repairing harm and strengthening relationships.
• Is SACE registration absolutely mandatory? Yes, a current SACE (South African Council for Educators) registration is a mandatory requirement for this position.
• How can I demonstrate my alignment with the school’s ethos? Emphasise your appreciation for working in a values-driven, Christian environment and your willingness to uphold the ethos and traditions of the school in your application and interview.
• What does “reduced load of classes” mean? This indicates that while the primary focus is on leadership and operational duties, you will still be expected to teach some classes, maintaining direct engagement with students and curriculum delivery.
• How can I make my application stand out? Focus on showcasing your experience in pedagogy, operational leadership, staff management, and your alignment with the school’s values and Christian ethos. Provide concrete examples of your leadership impact.
• Will my personal information be protected during the application process? Yes, the school assures applicants that, in line with POPIA, all reasonable measures will be taken to protect personal information used in the recruitment, selection, and reporting process.
• What should I keep in mind about the interview process? Be prepared to discuss your experience in team leadership, conflict management, and how you foster strong interpersonal relationships with various stakeholders, as these are key skills sought.