Deputy Head Senior School Job

St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg is seeking a dynamic and experienced Deputy Head for their Senior School, with a specialised focus on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. This pivotal leadership role, scheduled to commence on 1 May 2026, presents an exceptional opportunity for a passionate and professional educator with 5 to 10 years of experience in a similar leadership capacity. If you are committed to delivering values-based education and possess outstanding leadership qualities, you are invited to consider this significant career advancement within a venerable 123-year-old independent school.

Detailed list of vacancy key details

• School Name: St Andrew’s School for Girls
• Location: Johannesburg
• Position: Deputy Head Senior School: Pedagogy & Operational Leadership
• Start Date: 1 May 2026
• Application Closing Date: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025
• Reporting Structure: Reports directly to the Senior School and Executive Head.
• Curriculum Experience: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered an advantage.
• Key Qualifications & Experience: Suitable academic and professional qualifications, current SACE registration, and at least 5 – 10 years’ experience in a deputy head or head of department position.
• Core Responsibilities: Overseeing the 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 the recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of staff.
• Teaching Component: A reduced load of classes is part of the role.
• Ethos & Values: Upholding the ethos and traditions of the School, appreciating working in a values-driven, Christian environment.
• Legal Requirements: Willingness to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register.

Simple summary of the vacancy

St Andrew’s School for Girls, a distinguished 123-year-old independent institution in Johannesburg, is inviting applications for the pivotal role of Deputy Head Senior School, with a focus on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. This full-time leadership position is scheduled to begin on 1 May 2026. The school prides itself on a values-based education, rooted in a rich tradition and heritage, aiming to empower students to become skilled and active global citizens. The ideal candidate will share the school’s commitment to diversity, social justice, and fundamental human rights.

The successful applicant will be a dynamic, passionate, and professional individual reporting directly to the Senior School and Executive Head. They will be responsible for a broad spectrum of educational and administrative duties, from overseeing pedagogical practices and daily operations to supporting staff management and student discipline through a restorative approach. Experience with the IEB curriculum is highly valued for this post.

This role requires a leader who can effectively contribute to a dedicated leadership team, demonstrate excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation, and embody servant leadership. Candidates must be computer literate, adept at using technology in their teaching practice, and willing to participate in co-curricular activities. A reduced teaching load is part of the role, allowing the Deputy Head to maintain direct engagement with students while fulfilling significant leadership responsibilities.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a two-page CV.
• Ensure your CV includes two contactable references.
• Email your application to [email protected].
• Alternatively, or in addition, complete the online form by following this link: Deputy Head Senior School – Fill in form.
• Submit your application by 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
• Please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and meeting the requirements does not guarantee an interview. St Andrew’s School for Girls is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right not to proceed with this post.

Common questions and advice for candidates

• Q: What kind of experience is preferred for this Deputy Head role?
  A: The school is looking for someone with 5 to 10 years of experience in a deputy head or head of department position, demonstrating strong leadership and management capabilities within a school setting.
• Q: Is SACE registration essential?
  A: Yes, a current SACE registration is a mandatory requirement for all applicants.
• Q: Will I still be involved in teaching?
  A: Absolutely. This role includes a reduced load of classes, allowing you to maintain direct engagement with students and curriculum delivery while focusing on your leadership responsibilities.
• Q: What curriculum experience is considered an advantage?
  A: Experience with the IEB (Independent Examinations Board) curriculum and assessment standards will be highly regarded by the school.
• Q: What is the school’s approach to student discipline?
  A: St Andrew’s School for Girls supports a restorative approach to student discipline, which candidates should be prepared to uphold and implement.
• Q: How important are interpersonal skills?
  A: Excellent interpersonal skills, including proficiency in conflict management and mediation with colleagues, parents, and students, are crucial for this role.
• Q: Is this considered one of the many available teaching jobs in leadership?
  A: While it is a leadership position, it includes a reduced teaching load, making it integral to the broader landscape of teaching jobs available. This allows you to combine strategic oversight with direct pedagogical involvement.
• Q: What is the school’s working environment like?
  A: The school values a values-driven, Christian environment, and candidates should appreciate and be willing to uphold this ethos and the school’s traditions.
• Q: Are there expectations for involvement in extra-curricular activities?
  A: Yes, candidates are expected to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities at the school.
• Q: What technology skills are needed?
  A: Applicants must be computer literate and have practical experience using technology effectively in their teaching practice.
• Q: What kind of leadership style is the school looking for?
  A: The school values servant leadership, seeking individuals who can inspire, motivate, and empathise at all levels within the school community.
• Q: What makes a candidate stand out?
  A: Beyond meeting the core requirements, candidates who demonstrate a strong alignment with the school’s values, a proactive and self-motivated approach, and a proven ability to maintain standards of excellence under pressure will be preferred. Highlighting your commitment to diversity and social justice will also be beneficial.

You can find more information about St Andrew’s School for Girls at their official website: www.standrews.co.za (Note: Specific address for the school was not provided in the vacancy listing, only Johannesburg).
To explore other teaching jobs, please visit SchoolClick.co.za.
Find the original vacancy listing here: Deputy Head Senior School vacancy source.