Head of School / Principal

Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa; Wes-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 500 000 - 600 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Hout Bay is seeking a Head of School to lead its academic program and foster a thriving learning community. The ideal candidate will have a minimum of 4 years teaching experience, SACE registration, and exceptional communication skills. This role involves overseeing curriculum implementation and inspiring both staff and students in their educational journey, grounded in a strong commitment to Christian values. A competitive remuneration package is offered.

Benefits

Competitive remuneration package

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• Psychologically strong and spiritually mature in Christ.
• Service-oriented and teachable.
• Ability to inspire leadership and possess growth-minded attitude.

Responsibilities

• Oversee and implement the full school program according to board policy.
• Inspire and support the community through effective communication.
• Ensure fidelity to the curriculum and standards through teacher support.

Skills

Strong public speaking skills

Excellent written and verbal communication skills

Strong interpersonal skills

Organisational skills

Education

SACE registration

Minimum 4 years High School teaching experience

Tools

Microsoft Office

Google Workspace

Job description

Ambleside Hout Bay (Cape Town, South Africa)

• Start: 2026
• Hours: Full-time
• Grade Focus: Preferably High School

Introduction to Our School

Ambleside Schools International (ASI), founded in 1999, is rooted in the educational philosophy and extensive writings of Charlotte Mason. Guided by this philosophy, ASI seeks to provide a truly “living education” that cultivates wisdom, character, and a love of learning. Under the leadership of author and Principal Maryellen St. Cyr, the founding team in Texas developed the Ambleside Method and began building a worldwide community of Ambleside schools.

Ambleside School of Hout Bay launched in 2007 after a full realignment of our educational approach to ensure a deeply life‑giving experience for all students. Since then, our school has grown into a recognised and reputable choice for discerning parents seeking an education that nurtures academic excellence, character, relationships, and joyful discovery. While our staff come from diverse backgrounds, they share a common commitment to Jesus Christ and the central teachings of the New Testament.

Position Overview

The Head of School / Principal is primarily a person whose life is grounded in a sincere commitment to Jesus Christ, coupled with a love for children and for knowledge. Within this relational context, the Principal cultivates and safeguards a positive, high‑joy, inspiring, and peacefully authoritative atmosphere throughout the school.

Supported by ASI mentoring, training resources, observation visits, and personal study, the Principal becomes deeply competent in leading and advancing the Ambleside Method. This includes thorough familiarity with the ASI Principal’s Manual and the curriculum across all grades, and ensuring that teachers, staff, and students uphold ASI’s rigorous standards of academic work, atmosphere, and relational habits.

The Principal serves as the primary spokesperson for the school – on and off campus – interacting warmly, professionally, and consistently with students, parents, staff, visitors, and the wider community. The Principal reports to the School Board and works closely with the School Business Manager.

Personal Qualities

We seek a candidate who is: spiritually mature in Christ; psychologically strong; service‑oriented; teachable; loving toward all persons; joyful; peacefully submitted to authority; inspiring in leadership; growth‑minded; administratively excellent; patient; articulate; intelligent; thorough; punctual; flexible; collegial; and enthusiastic about learning and sharing knowledge.

Overarching Responsibilities

• Oversee and implement the full school program in accordance with School Board policy, approved budgets, and the Ambleside ethos.
• Participate in ASI principal mentoring through conference calls, retreats, and collaboration in Ambleside Schools International initiatives.
• Complete ASI’s principal training and mentoring program (travel may be required).
• Inspire and support the school community – parents, teachers, and students – through clear communication and authentic leadership grounded in the Ambleside vision.
• Work with the Director of Instruction, developing teachers through regular observation, feedback, modelling, training, and evaluation. Ensure fidelity to the ASI curriculum and standards; recognise strengths; identify areas for growth; address critical concerns; and make staffing decisions when necessary.
• Support teachers in their academic and relational work with students and, when appropriate, support students directly.
• Minimum 4 years High School teaching experience.
• SACE registration.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong public speaking skills.
• Solid management, business acumen, and problem‑solving abilities.
• Competence in Microsoft Office and Google Workspace.
• Strong interpersonal, organisational, and time‑management skills.
• Police Clearance Certificate.

Preferred Requirements

• Leadership experience in an academic or ministry context.
• Introductory knowledge of Charlotte Mason’s philosophy (e.g., “Three Instruments of Education” and “Children as ‘Persons’”).
• Knowledge of and experience with IEB curriculum and teacher support.
• CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain it – would be covered by the School).
• Names and contact numbers of three recent referees.

The successful candidate will receive a competitive remuneration package and the opportunity to work within a stimulating and purpose‑driven educational environment.

Closing Date

30/01/2026

Hout Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa