Deputy Head of Secondary

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

Job summary

A prestigious international school in Kuala Lumpur is seeking a committed Deputy Head for the secondary school starting August 2026. The ideal candidate will have a record of successful leadership and innovation in education, focusing on student wellbeing and academic excellence. This role includes strategic leadership responsibilities and fostering a positive learning environment. Applications close on December 1st, with a competitive salary and benefits package offered.

Benefits

Competitive salary and benefits package

Ongoing Professional Development

Collaborative working environment

Qualifications

• Record of leading successful whole school change.
• Experience in tracking and supporting student wellbeing.
• Strong planning and organizational abilities.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to the strategic and operational leadership of the secondary school.
• Ensure academic care for all students.
• Create a vision for education and student welfare.

Skills

Leadership experience

Curriculum design

Data management

Effective communication

Innovation in education

Job description

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, with the appropriate attitude, skills and experience to join us in the role of Deputy Head in the secondary school.

The Deputy Head (Secondary) is part of the Secondary Leadership team reporting to the Head of Secondary and is responsible for contributing to the strategic and operational leadership of the secondary school. The specific responsibilities of the deputy roles in the team are dependent on the strengths and experience of the individuals and may change over time, remaining agile as the needs of the school change. All members of the leadership team are responsible for ‘academic care’ – both the wellbeing and academic progress – of all students.

The successful candidate will have a record of leading successful whole school change, and significant experience of indirect leadership. A secure understanding and experience in curriculum design, management and analysis of pupil data, and tracking and supporting student wellbeing, as well as strong experience in leading on teaching and learning and holistic attainment is a vital part of the Deputy Head role.

Most importantly the new Deputy Head must demonstrate the capacity to create a vision for the education and welfare of the students of GIS that is creative, fosters innovation and incorporates the most forward thinking in education that focuses upon the learner. The Deputy Head should demonstrate the ability to foster high academic standards with a strong planning and organisational ability. The successful candidate must be an effective communicator, confident in establishing open communication with students, staff and parents. It is expected that the Deputy Head will actively support and articulate the values and character building principles of GIS.

The Deputy Head of Secondary is required for August 2026.

About the School

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. GIS is a family, and with our fantastic students, dedicated and motivated team of excellent teachers and support staff, it truly is a wonderful place to learn and teach.

The school is focused on creating the best environments for our learners to grow and develop academically, emotionally, physically and socially. With a positive and progressive outlook, based on the latest research, we seek to constantly improve the provision for learning. With over 75 hours dedicated to teacher CPD every year, as well as a keen focus on staff and student well‑being, we are constantly striving for excellence, both as practitioners and for our learners. As an ‘Apple Distinguished’ school, GIS uses the latest technology to enhance learning, provides a 1:1 device programme and uses Google Apps for Education as our main learning platform.

Please refer to the attached Job Description for full details of the roles and responsibilities.

Benefits

• A competitive salary and benefits package
• Ongoing Professional Development
• A professionally stimulating and collaborative working environment

The closing date for applications is Monday 1st December. Candidates may be contacted for an interview before the closing date. We will be interviewing and shortlisting as applications come in and will run a two day process for shortlisted candidates the week beginning Monday 1st December – full details TBC.

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

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. As such, all offers of employment are subject to a criminal record check (ICPC or equivalent).