Deputy Head Senior School Job
St Andrew’s School for Girls in Johannesburg is currently seeking a highly motivated and professional individual to join their team as the Deputy Head Senior School, focusing on Pedagogy and Operational Leadership. This crucial teaching job, set to commence on 1 May 2026, involves overseeing educational strategies and managing the daily operational functions of the Senior School. If you are an experienced leader with a passion for shaping young minds and contributing to a values-driven educational environment, this could be a very rewarding opportunity among current teaching jobs.
The school, a well-established independent institution with 123 years of heritage, is dedicated to fostering diversity and empowering students to become impactful members of society. The successful candidate will play a vital role in upholding these values, reporting directly to the Senior School and Executive Head, and will ideally have experience with the IEB curriculum.
![]()
Detailed vacancy information
- Position: Deputy Head Senior School: Pedagogy & Operational Leadership
- School: St Andrew’s School for Girls, Johannesburg
- Start Date: 1 May 2026
- About the School: A 123-year-old independent school known for its values-based education, strong traditions, and commitment to diversity, social justice, and human rights.
- Reporting To: Senior School and Executive Head.
- Curriculum Experience: Experience with the IEB curriculum and assessment standards is considered an advantage.
- Key Responsibilities Include:
- 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 a reduced load of classes.
- Contributing to and attending co-curricular activities.
- 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 literate with experience using technology in teaching practice.
- Essential Skills & Qualities:
- Ability to work effectively as part of a dedicated leadership and management team.
- Excellent interpersonal skills, including conflict management and mediation with colleagues, parents, and students.
- Subscription to the paradigm of servant leadership.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
- Ability to maintain standards of excellence.
- Self-motivated and able to work under pressure.
- Upholding the ethos and traditions of the School.
- Appreciation for working in a values-driven, Christian environment.
- Willingness to apply for clearance with the Child Protection Act and Sexual Offences Register.
- Application Closing Date: 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
- Vacancy Source Link: Deputy Head Senior School Vacancy
Simple summary of the vacancy
St Andrew’s School for Girls, a respected independent school in Johannesburg with a rich 123-year history, is looking to appoint a new Deputy Head for their Senior School. This leadership role is pivotal, focusing on both the educational approach (pedagogy) and the smooth daily running (operational leadership) of the Senior School. Starting in May 2026, the successful candidate will be a dynamic, professional, and passionate individual who can help guide the school’s commitment to democratic values, social justice, and human rights through their leadership.
The role requires someone with strong leadership experience, ideally 5 to 10 years in a similar senior position, and a solid understanding of the IEB curriculum. You’ll be expected to manage staff, support a restorative approach to student discipline, handle communication, and even teach a reduced number of classes, making it a truly hands-on leadership opportunity among the current teaching jobs available. The school values a Christian, values-driven environment, and candidates should be prepared to embrace and uphold this ethos, while also contributing to co-curricular activities.
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].
- Complete the online application form by clicking this link: DEPUTY HEAD SENIOR SCHOOL – Fill in form.
- All applications must be received by 16h00 on Friday 21 November 2025.
Questions and answers for preferred candidates
- Q: What academic and professional qualifications are expected?
A: While not explicitly stated, suitable qualifications would typically include a relevant university degree and teaching qualification, along with a postgraduate qualification in educational leadership or management. Professional development certificates in pedagogy or curriculum development would also be highly valued. - Q: How can I demonstrate my experience with the IEB curriculum effectively?
A: Highlight specific roles where you worked directly with the IEB, mentioning curriculum design, assessment moderation, or leadership in subject departments that follow the IEB. Quantify achievements where possible, such as improved results or successful curriculum implementations. - Q: What does “servant leadership” entail in the context of St Andrew’s?
A: Servant leadership at St Andrew’s would mean leading with humility, empathy, and a focus on the growth and well-being of staff and students. It involves listening actively, building community, fostering a culture of trust, and empowering others to develop and succeed, rather than leading through authority alone. - Q: How important is my experience in a values-driven, Christian environment?
A: It’s very important. The school explicitly states it appreciates candidates who work in such an environment and are willing to uphold its ethos. You should be prepared to discuss how your personal values align with and can contribute to a Christian, values-based educational setting. - Q: What should I highlight regarding my experience in a deputy head or head of department position?
A: Focus on your leadership in areas like curriculum development, staff management (recruitment, performance, mentoring), strategic planning, and operational oversight. Provide examples of successful initiatives, problem-solving, and your ability to lead teams effectively. - Q: What specific technology experience is relevant for teaching practice?
A: Beyond basic computer literacy, highlight experience with educational platforms (e.g., Moodle, Google Classroom), digital assessment tools, online learning strategies, and integrating technology to enhance classroom engagement and administrative efficiency. - Q: How can I demonstrate my commitment to co-curricular activities?
A: Mention any involvement in sports, cultural societies, clubs, or community service initiatives at your current or previous schools. Detail your role, the impact of your involvement, and your philosophy on the importance of holistic student development. - Q: What does the “restorative approach to student discipline” mean, and how can I show my alignment with it?
A: This approach focuses on repairing harm and relationships rather than just punishment. Emphasise your experience in mediation, conflict resolution, fostering student responsibility, and using dialogue to address misbehaviour and promote learning from mistakes. - Q: What should I include in my two-page CV to stand out?
A: Beyond qualifications and experience, include a brief personal statement outlining your leadership philosophy and how it aligns with St Andrew’s values. Quantify achievements where possible, and tailor your bullet points to directly address the requirements listed in the vacancy. - Q: What kind of interpersonal skills and conflict management examples should I prepare?
A: Be ready to discuss situations where you successfully mediated disputes between students, staff, or parents. Highlight your ability to communicate clearly, listen actively, build consensus, and resolve issues fairly and respectfully, maintaining positive relationships. - Q: Is there any flexibility on the 1 May 2026 start date?
A: The start date is clearly stated as 1 May 2026. While it’s always worth clarifying, applicants should plan to be available for this date, as it indicates a carefully planned transition for the school.
Institution details
- School Website: www.standrews.co.za
- Address: St Andrew’s School for Girls, 64 Wordsworth Ave, Senderwood, Bedfordview, Johannesburg, 2008, South Africa
For more fantastic teaching jobs, explore our extensive listings.
