Deputy Head Senior School Job

St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg is looking to appoint a new Deputy Head for its Senior School, focusing on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. This significant leadership role is set to commence on 1 May 2026. If you are a dynamic, passionate, and professional educator with a proven track record in school leadership, with a minimum of 5-10 years’ experience in a deputy head or head of department position, and are looking for challenging teaching jobs, this could be an excellent opportunity for you. Applications, including a two-page CV and two contactable references, must be submitted by 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.

Detailed vacancy information

• School Name: St Andrew’s School for Girls
• Location: Johannesburg, South Africa (a 123-year-old independent school)
• Position: Deputy Head Senior School: Pedagogy & Operational Leadership
• Start Date: 1 May 2026
• Application Closing Date: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025
• Reporting To: Senior School and Executive Head
• Curriculum Preference: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered an advantage.
• 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 the recruitment, onboarding, and performance management of staff.
  • Teaching a reduced load of classes.
  • Contributing to and attending co-curricular activities.
• Essential 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.
  • Adherence to a servant leadership paradigm and the School’s ethos and traditions.
  • 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 well-established independent institution in Johannesburg with over 123 years of history, is seeking a dedicated and experienced leader for the role of Deputy Head Senior School. The school prides itself on a values-based education and a strong commitment to diversity, social justice, and human rights. The successful candidate will be pivotal in leading the Senior School’s pedagogical and operational aspects, ensuring a high standard of education and a smooth daily functioning.

This role requires a leader who can effectively manage and inspire staff, support a restorative approach to student discipline, and contribute actively to the school’s vibrant co-curricular life. While experience with the IEB curriculum is beneficial, the school is primarily looking for a professional with strong leadership experience (5-10 years in a similar senior role), excellent communication and interpersonal skills, and a commitment to the school’s Christian and values-driven environment. The Deputy Head will also maintain a reduced teaching load, allowing them to remain connected to the core teaching jobs of the school.

The school is an equal opportunity employer and invites applications from South African citizens. Candidates should be prepared to uphold the school’s traditions and ethos, demonstrating a capacity to work under pressure and maintain standards of excellence.

How to apply for this post

• Prepare a concise two-page CV.
• Ensure your CV includes two contactable references.
• Email your application to [email protected].
• Additionally, complete the online application form available at: 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.

Institution details

• Website: www.standrews.co.za
• Address: St Andrew’s Rd, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2007, South Africa

Questions and answers for a potential candidate

• Q: What kind of leadership experience is most valued for this role?
  A: The school is specifically looking for candidates with 5-10 years of experience in a deputy head or head of department position, demonstrating strong pedagogical and operational leadership.
• Q: Is SACE registration a strict requirement?
  A: Yes, a current SACE registration is an essential requirement for the successful candidate.
• Q: How important is experience with the IEB curriculum?
  A: While not strictly mandatory, experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered a significant advantage, so it should definitely be highlighted in your application.
• Q: What leadership style does St Andrew’s School for Girls prefer?
  A: The school values a paradigm of servant leadership, where you inspire, motivate, and empathise at all levels, reflecting the school’s values-driven environment.
• Q: How can I demonstrate my fit with the school’s ethos?
  A: Emphasise your appreciation for working in a values-driven, Christian environment and your willingness to uphold the school’s traditions and commitment to diversity and social justice.
• Q: What are the expectations regarding technology in this role?
  A: Candidates must be computer literate and have practical experience using technology effectively in their teaching practice and administrative duties.
• Q: Will the Deputy Head still be involved in teaching?
  A: Yes, the role includes teaching a reduced load of classes, ensuring continued engagement with the students and curriculum.
• Q: What is the school’s approach to student discipline?
  A: The school supports a restorative approach to student discipline, which you will be expected to uphold and integrate into daily operations.
• Q: What is the expected commitment to co-curricular activities?
  A: You will be expected to contribute to and attend co-curricular activities, demonstrating an active involvement in the broader school life.
• Q: What kind of communication skills are particularly important?
  A: Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation with colleagues, parents, and students, alongside strong verbal and written communication skills, are crucial.
• Q: Are non-South African citizens eligible to apply?
  A: No, the school specifically states that applications are invited only from South African citizens.
• Q: What is the maximum length for the CV?
  A: Your CV should be limited to two pages.