Reddam House Umhlanga is seeking a dynamic and experienced Head of Preparatory School to provide strong leadership and ensure a holistic and high-quality educational experience for students and staff within the Preparatory School phase. The successful candidate will play a pivotal role in fostering a positive learning environment, driving academic excellence, and promoting the overall well-being and development of both students and teachers. This position demands a strategic thinker with exceptional management and interpersonal skills, dedicated to upholding the high standards of Inspired Schools.

ROLE SUMMARY:

• Drive academic excellence within the Preparatory School, aligning with the overall vision of Inspired Schools.
• Contribute to providing quality education that enhances the Inspired brand and reputation.
• Create opportunities for staff to achieve their professional career goals.
• Actively contribute to ensuring the ongoing success and sustainability of Inspired Schools.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Serve on committee structures as delegated and required by the school, such as Employment Equity and Health & Safety.
• Actively participate in all relevant meetings, contributing valuable insights and perspectives.
• Take responsibility for personal and professional growth by attending required courses and activities.
• Provide timely and informative feedback and formally report back to the school on meeting outcomes.
• Monitor and manage assigned projects within the Preparatory School according to agreed timelines.
• Submit project reports and assignments by established deadlines and in accordance with agreed decisions.

STAFF MANAGEMENT:

• Conduct regular and effective staff meetings to clearly communicate and ensure understanding of the school’s vision, mission, ethos, and strategic direction.
• Lead the processes of appointment, appraisal, and ongoing management of all Preparatory School staff.
• Monitor, manage, and effectively implement the school budget and resources, curriculum, academic calendar and timetable, examinations, and reporting systems within the Preparatory School.
• Provide robust support and guidance to all members of staff, fostering a united and collaborative team environment focused on the best interests of the school.
• Ensure the effective marketing of the Preparatory School campus.
• Take ownership and actively participate in the mentorship and induction of new staff members joining Inspired.
• Reporting to the CEO whilst working in close collaboration with the Executive Head in the ongoing development of the Preparatory School.
• Champion and lead the positive implementation of equal opportunities within the school.
• Participate in the disciplinary process for staff when required

STUDENT MANAGEMENT:

• Communicate effectively with parents at school functions, meetings, and information evenings on all relevant matters pertaining to the Preparatory School.
• Serve as a key point of contact for parents, students, and staff regarding admissions, academic programmes, and discipline within the Preparatory School.
• Manage safeguarding roles, responsibilities, and procedures diligently within the campus, specifically for Preparatory School students.
• Ensure that student progress within the Preparatory School is effectively and regularly communicated to parents.
• Contribute to creating and maintaining an attractive, effective, and engaging environment conducive to learning within the Preparatory School.
• Actively promote the positive image of the school within the community.
• Ensure the establishment and maintenance of a culture of respect throughout the entire Preparatory School.

WHAT WE’RE LOOKING FOR:

• Ability to role model attributes of Servant Leadership.
• Excellent planning, organizing, and reporting skills.
• Highly effective communication skills (oral, written, and presentation).
• Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize effectively.
• Excellent interpersonal skills and a strong team-oriented approach.
• Ability to implement creative and effective problem-solving strategies.
• Capacity for self-reflection and continuous professional development.
• High level of emotional intelligence.
• Adaptable and flexible in response to evolving needs.
• Resilient and able to navigate challenges effectively.
• Ability to take initiative and drive positive change.
• Willingness to serve the school community with dedication.
• A commitment to being a life-long learner.
• Ability to build and maintain positive and productive relationships with all stakeholders (students, parents, staff, and the wider community).
• Enthusiastic and passionate about education.
• Positive and solution-oriented disposition.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant Teaching Degree; a Master’s degree will be advantageous.
• Several years of teaching experience, with significant experience in Head of School or similar leadership roles within a school environment.
• Strong analytical and project management skills.
• Confident and dynamic personality with excellent interpersonal skills.
• Strong creative outlook and an innovative approach to education.
• Proven track record of success in Head of School roles or equivalent leadership positions.
• Demonstrable ability and proven track record in the management of teams and effective people management skills.