Deputy Head (Academic) – Whole School
British International School – Guangzhou, China
Start Date: August 2026
Shape the Academic Foundations of a New World-Class British International School
We are seeking a dynamic, visionary Deputy Head (Academic) to join the founding leadership team of the British International School, Guangzhou, a new premium British international school set to open in August 2026.
This is a rare opportunity for an experienced academic leader to design and implement the whole-school academic strategy, lead on teaching and learning excellence, and play a central role in establishing a high-achieving, student-centred learning culture.
About the School
Situated in one of China's most international and fast-developing cities, the school will offer a British-style education (EYFS to A Level), tailored to the needs of both international and local families. Designed with modern pedagogy in mind, the purpose-built campus will support a forward-looking approach to education, blending academic rigour with innovation and creativity.
The Role
As Deputy Head (Academic), you will:
- Lead the development and implementation of a coherent, high-quality academic strategy from Early Years through to Sixth Form.
- Ensure excellence in teaching and learning across all phases, supporting high attainment and continuous improvement.
- Oversee curriculum development, assessment, reporting, and academic policies.
- Provide professional leadership to Heads of Department, subject leads, and teaching staff.
- Champion staff development and performance, building a culture of reflective practice and pedagogical innovation.
- Work closely with the Principal and Deputy Head (Pastoral) to ensure an integrated, student-focused approach to whole-school leadership.
The Ideal Candidate
You will be:
- An experienced academic leader (Deputy Head, Assistant Head, Director of Studies, or equivalent) in a British or British-style international school.
- Passionate about curriculum design, pedagogy, and educational innovation.
- Knowledgeable across all phases of the English National Curriculum, including EYFS, Key Stages 1–5, and A Levels or equivalent post-16 programmes.
- A strategic thinker with strong organisational and analytical skills.
- Collaborative, internationally minded, and committed to continuous school improvement.
- Experience in school start-ups or curriculum development across multiple key stages would be a distinct advantage.
The School Offers
- A highly competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package.
- Generous relocation support, housing, and annual return flights.
- Full private healthcare coverage.
- A unique chance to lead academic development in a founding school environment.
- Professional growth in a forward-thinking, international setting.
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments will be subject to enhanced background checks, including DBS (or international equivalent) and reference screening.
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