Strategic Head of Secondary & Sixth Form Leader

Cognita Schools; Madrid; On-site; EUR 90,000 - 130,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Competitive salary

Tuition for children

Relocation support

Free lunches

Professional development

Madrid lifestyle

Job summary

Cognita Schools in Madrid seeks an experienced Head of Secondary to lead Key Stages 3–5 within a global education group. You will drive the School Improvement Plan, oversee teaching quality, and coach senior staff while guiding students toward IGCSE and A Level success.

You will manage safeguarding, partnerships with families, and transition planning for UCAS/universities in Spain, the UK, and beyond, all within a vibrant, international setting.

Qualifications

• Recognised teaching qualification (PGCE, QTS or equivalent).
• Experience in a British curriculum or international school with IGCSE and A Level understanding.
• Track record of leading and developing teams and coaching middle leaders.
• Excellent classroom and behaviour management; commitment to inclusive learning.
• Data-driven approach to monitor progress and lift student outcomes.
• Experience supporting students with university applications.
• Excellent English; Spanish or another language is an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Set direction for Key Stages 3–5; lead School Improvement Plan and 3-year Strategic Plan as a core SLT member.
• Raise teaching standards; champion Cognita Teaching Standards; ensure challenging and inclusive lessons.
• Line-manage Heads of Subject, Head of Sixth Form and Examination Officer; coach middle leaders and recruit staff.
• Own results by tracking progress in IGCSE and A Level, analyzing mock and actual grades, providing timely support.
• Maintain safeguarding, wellbeing, attendance and behaviour; support pupils with additional needs.
• Partner with parents; guide families through IGCSE, A Level and post-16/university pathways.
• Lead KS2–3 transition and Sixth Form planning for UCAS and universities (Spain, UK and beyond).
• Champion enrichment, trips and student leadership; build partnerships with local organisations and universities.
• Manage Secondary budget, timetable, curriculum, calendar and compliance; deputise for Headteacher when needed.

Skills

Leadership experience

British curriculum experience

Team development

Classroom management

Data-driven instruction

University applications support

Excellent English

Spanish language (advantage)

Education

PGCE / QTS or equivalent

Job description

Cognita Schools in Madrid seeks an experienced Head of Secondary to lead Key Stages 3–5 within a global education group. You will drive the School Improvement Plan, oversee teaching quality, and coach senior staff while guiding students toward IGCSE and A Level success.

You will manage safeguarding, partnerships with families, and transition planning for UCAS/universities in Spain, the UK, and beyond, all within a vibrant, international setting.