Deputy Head (Head of Early Years)

Garden International School - Kuala Lumpur; Kuala Lumpur; On-site; MYR 100,000 - 150,000; Full time

Job summary

A top international school in Kuala Lumpur is looking for a dedicated Deputy Head of the Primary School to lead teaching and learning, and ensure student well-being. The ideal candidate should have significant leadership experience and a solid understanding of early-years education. This role offers a competitive salary and a collaborative working environment. The start date for this position is August 1, 2026, and applications close on January 9, 2026.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Ongoing professional development

Collaborative working environment

Qualifications

• Proven track record leading successful school change.
• Significant indirect leadership experience required.
• Secure understanding of early-years educational frameworks.

Responsibilities

• Contributing to the strategic leadership of the primary school.
• Leading on teaching and learning initiatives.
• Ensuring student well-being and holistic attainment.

Skills

Leadership experience

Understanding of early-years provision

Expertise in student well-being

Teaching and learning leadership

Job description

Overview

This is an exciting opportunity to join a dynamic, forward‑thinking team in a world‑class international school. We are seeking an energetic, committed and strategic thinker to serve as Deputy Head of the Primary School, based at the Early Years Centre (EYC). The Deputy Head role is part of a Primary Leadership Team made up of three deputy heads and three assistant heads. GIS is a well‑resourced, successful international school with great facilities and a reputation for academic excellence; we place the success of each and every student at the centre of our mission.

Responsibilities

The Deputy Head (EYC) reports to the Head of Primary and is responsible for contributing to the strategic and operational leadership of the primary school. Responsibilities include leading on teaching and learning, protecting student well‑being, ensuring holistic attainment, and supporting the overarching targets and ethos of early‑years education. The specific duties within the team are based on individual strengths and may evolve as the needs of the school change.

Qualifications

Applicants should have a record of leading successful school change and significant indirect leadership experience. A secure understanding of early‑years provision, expertise in tracking and supporting student well‑being, and a proven track record in leading on teaching and learning are essential.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and benefits package
• Ongoing professional development
• A professionally stimulating and collaborative working environment

Application Details

The closing date for applications is Friday 9 January. Candidates may be contacted for an interview before the closing date and we will be interviewing and shortlisting as applications come in.

Please review the ‘GIS Information for Applicants 2026‑27’ booklet found in the Applicant Info Pack prior to applying for this role.

Role Start Date: 1 August 2026

Safeguarding

Garden International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to a criminal record check (ICPC or equivalent).