Head of Secondary (Years 7 - 12)

Are you an experienced and passionate educational leader looking to make a meaningful impact? The German International School Sydney (GISS) is seeking a dedicated Head of Secondary (Years 7-12) to oversee the structural leadership of our Junior and Senior Secondary School. This role offers an exciting opportunity to foster a culture of academic excellence, innovation, and student well-being in an internationally minded learning environment.

About Us

GISS is a small international school offering a bilingual education program (German and English) from Preschool to the bilingual IB Diploma. It is registered by NESA and accredited by the Federal Republic of Germany as a German School Abroad.

As a highly reputable co-educational institution, GISS has a rich history of providing high-quality education while maintaining an enjoyable and supportive workplace for its staff. In September 2017, GISS was awarded the distinction of “Excellent German School Abroad”, and its Preschool consistently holds an “Exceeding National Quality Standards” rating across all seven quality areas.

As a bilingual school (German/English), proficiency in both languages is highly desirable for this role.

Leadership Structure at GISS

The school principal oversees both the structural and pedagogical leadership of the school.

  • The structural leadership consists of the Head of Primary and the Head of Secondary (this role).
  • The pedagogical leadership consists of the Head of Curriculum Primary and the Head of Curriculum Secondary.

The Head of Secondary is the direct superior of the Head of Curriculum Secondary, but the primary responsibility for pedagogical matters lies with the Head of Curriculum Secondary. The Head of Secondary focuses on overall structural leadership, including operational oversight, strategic planning, timetabling, cover planning, and staff management for Years 7-12.

About the Role

As the Head of Secondary, you will provide strategic and operational leadership for the Secondary School (Years 7-12), ensuring excellence in student learning, staff development, and school operations. You will work closely with the Head of Curriculum Secondary, who holds primary responsibility for pedagogical leadership, to ensure alignment with the school's academic vision and standards.

This is a fantastic opportunity to contribute to a thriving international school environment and lead a dynamic team committed to excellence.

Key Responsibilities

  • Structural Leadership: Oversee the daily operations, policies, and strategic direction of the Secondary School (Years 7-12) in alignment with the school’s vision.
  • Collaboration with Pedagogical Leadership: Work closely with the Head of Curriculum Secondary to ensure high-quality teaching and learning practices.
  • Staff Management & Development: Supervise and support Secondary School teachers, providing guidance on school policies, well-being, teacher accreditation, and professional development.
  • Student Well-being & Community Engagement: Foster an inclusive, safe, and engaging school environment that supports student success and well-being.
  • IB Diploma Programme Administration: Ensure the smooth implementation of the IB Diploma Programme, including assessment processes and communication with the IBO.
  • Assessment & Reporting: Oversee assessment and reporting procedures, ensuring compliance with NESA and IB requirements.
  • Stakeholder Relations: Build strong relationships with students, parents, staff, and the wider community to promote student engagement and enrolments.
  • School Leadership Contribution: Work collaboratively with the School Leadership Team, including the Principal, Head of Primary, and Heads of Curriculum, to shape the future direction of the school.
  • Timetabling: Develop and manage the school's timetable and daily cover plans to ensure smooth operation.
  • Budget Management: Oversee the Secondary School budget in alignment with school financial policies.

What We Are Looking For

  • Proven leadership experience in a Secondary School setting.
  • Strong background in school operations, strategic planning, and staff management.
  • Experience with the IB Diploma Programme.
  • A deep commitment to student well-being, pastoral care, and inclusive education.
  • Excellent interpersonal and communication skills to foster positive relationships with students, parents, and staff.
  • Collaborative leadership style with the ability to work effectively with the pedagogical leadership team.
  • Understanding of and compliance with Australian child protection laws, workplace safety regulations, and NESA accreditation requirements.
  • A valid Working with Children Check (WWCC) and eligibility to work in Australia.

Why Join Us?

  • A dynamic and supportive international school environment.
  • The opportunity to lead a thriving Secondary School in collaboration with a strong leadership team.
  • A culture of collaboration, innovation, and academic excellence.
  • Professional development opportunities to grow as an educational leader.

How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role to via the link below by 9. April 2025.

GISS is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to ensuring child safety and fostering an inclusive workplace. All applicants must comply with Australian child protection legislation.

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