Head of Higher Education & Post-18 Pathways

International Schools Today; Greater London; Hybrid; GBP 80,000 - 110,000; Full time

Job summary

King’s College School, Wimbledon, is seeking a Director of Higher Education from September 2027. You will lead post-18 applications, guiding pupils and families across UK, USA and beyond, including degree apprenticeships and specialist pathways.

You will work with the deputy heads and heads of form and IB to evolve HE guidance in line with curriculum and broader HE developments, and to contribute within King’s international family of schools.

Qualifications

• The successful candidate will demonstrate: genuine interest in higher education and post-18 pathways with up-to-date knowledge.
• Ability to think strategically, creatively and empathetically; develop plans, resource and manage complex projects.
• Strong organisational, administrative and leadership skills; manage competing priorities and deadlines.
• Resilience, sound judgement and calm under pressure.
• Proven ability to build strong relationships with pupils, parents and colleagues; establish partnerships with stakeholders.
• Pastoral mindset; support pupils with empathy and clarity; manage expectations with parents.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical skills; maintain effective record-keeping, monitoring and evaluation systems.
• Willingness to work flexibly, including weekends and holidays.
• High level of personal integrity, discretion and confidentiality.
• A good honours degree from a respected university and an excellent teaching record in any discipline.

Responsibilities

• Lead post-18 applications guidance and support for pupils and families.
• Collaborate with deputy heads, head of sixth form, director of IB and head of A level to shape HE guidance.
• Develop approaches to HE guidance that complement A level and IB studies.
• Provide guidance and training within King’s international family of schools.

Skills

Strategic thinking

Leadership

Organisational skills

Relationship building

Communication

Empathy and pastoral mindset

Discretion and confidentiality

Education

Honours degree from a respected university

Job description

King’s College School, Wimbledon, is seeking a Director of Higher Education from September 2027. You will lead post-18 applications, guiding pupils and families across UK, USA and beyond, including degree apprenticeships and specialist pathways.

You will work with the deputy heads and heads of form and IB to evolve HE guidance in line with curriculum and broader HE developments, and to contribute within King’s international family of schools.