Senior Educational Psychologist

Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy For Girls; Vaal Marina Community Center; On-site; ZAR 600 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious educational institution in Gauteng seeks a Senior Educational Psychologist to oversee operations and enhance educational and psychological services. The ideal candidate will hold a Master's degree and have extensive experience in educational psychology, especially with vulnerable youths. Strong management skills and expertise in trauma-informed care are essential. This role offers the opportunity to shape student support strategies in a dynamic educational environment.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience as an Educational Psychologist, ideally in a school.
• Proven experience working with vulnerable children with trauma.
• Registered with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.

Responsibilities

• Manage day-to-day operations and initiatives of the Unit.
• Develop strategies to achieve the Academy's goals.
• Ensure delivery of high-quality educational and psychological services.

Skills

Trauma-informed care

Crisis management

Educational strategies for children

Analytical abilities

Team management

Education

Master's degree in Educational Psychology

Job description

Introduction

The Oprah Winfrey Leadership Academy for Girls (The Academy) is a world-class educational platform for girls that is aimed at nurturing a new generation of dynamic women leaders.

This residential boarding school is situated in Meyerton, Gauteng Province, with just over students enrolled in Grades Grade 12.

Students write the Independent Examination Board (I.E.B.) NSC Examination.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates.

Applications must be accompanied by a cover letter, CV with names of three contactable references, a copy of the highest qualification/s, and a copy of identity.

Interested candidates must register their profiles at to submit their applications.

Further information about the Academy can be found on its website.

The Academy is a member of the Independent Schools Association of Southern Africa (ISASA) and is an equal opportunity employer.

Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) Disclaimer

"The Academy, in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), is committed to ensuring the confidentiality of all applicants for this role. Reasonable measures will be taken to safeguard personal information; however, such information will be used for the purposes of recruitment, selection, and reporting. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and accept this disclaimer."

Minimum Academic Requirements and Experience

• Master's degree in Educational Psychology.
• Registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa.
• Up-to-date CPD portfolio.
• Minimum of 5 years' experience as an Educational Psychologist, ideally in a school or learning environment.
• Minimum of 3 years' experience in a management or leadership position.
• Proven experience working with vulnerable children and adolescents with a history of trauma experiences.
• Experience in promoting the holistic well‑being and development of all students academically, psychologically, and socially.
• Proven experience in working within a multi‑disciplinary team.

Main Purpose of the Job

The Senior Educational Psychologist provides management of the day‑to‑day operations and key initiatives related to the Unit.

The incumbent will also contribute to the development of a strategy to achieve the Academy's goals. This role ensures the delivery of a high‑quality educational and psychological service by implementing evidence‑based interventions and aligning departmental functions with the Academy's broader vision.

With a strong focus on department management and supervision, the psychologist is responsible for developing and refining standard operating procedures (SOPs), policies, and strategic plans, ensuring compliance with best practices and HPCSA regulations.

Additionally, the role involves preparing board and related reports, monitoring budgets and spending, and recommending strategic pivots to adapt to emerging learner needs and institutional priorities. Beyond direct learner support, the Senior Educational Psychologist leads the Unit's implementation plan, monitoring and evaluating services to measure impact and drive continuous improvement.

The role involves extensive stakeholder engagement to enhance service delivery and learner outcomes.

Knowledge, Skills, and Attitude

Proven ability to deliver expert psychological services within an educational setting, addressing the needs of both staff and learners. Specialized knowledge in developmental psychology and educational strategies for children and adolescents. In‑depth knowledge of trauma‑informed care, applying this approach in support of learners' well‑being. Willingness to learn how to use and implement a trauma‑informed Model of Therapeutics. Expertise in crisis management, providing effective support and intervention during critical situations to ensure the safety and well‑being of students and staff. Demonstrated experience in contributing to both the strategic and operational planning, ensuring alignment with broader organisational goals. Skilled in developing systems, procedures, and policies, with a track record of implementing new strategies to improve operations. Experience in forecasting and managing financial resources effectively to support organisational objectives. Superior planning and organisational capabilities, ensuring the smooth execution of tasks and initiatives. Exceptional organisational and administrative skills, ensuring accuracy, efficiency, and compliance in all tasks. Strong team management and supervision abilities. Skilled in managing both internal relationships, fostering collaborative partnerships, and effective communication. Ability to convey complex technical issues and concepts clearly to diverse stakeholders through both written and verbal communication, including presentations and proposals. Deep understanding and respect for cultural diversity, ensuring inclusive practices in all interactions and services. Solution‑oriented with strong analytical and statistical abilities, effectively addressing challenges and developing actionable solutions. Committed to continuously improving customer service delivery and enhancing the overall experience through service excellence. Ability to work effectively under pressure and meet tight deadlines without compromising on quality and attention to detail. Proven ability to uphold the highest standards of confidentiality in all professional interactions and processes. Act with the highest integrity and always uphold the Academy's standards and values (Respect, Honour, Compassion, Service, Responsibility, and Accountability).

Interested?

Interested?