Deputy Head (Pastoral)
British International School – Guangzhou, China
Start Date: August 2026
A Founding Leadership Opportunity at a Flagship British International School in China
The British International School, Guangzhou invites applications for the key leadership role of Deputy Head (Pastoral) – a whole school position with strategic responsibility for the pastoral care, wellbeing, safeguarding, and personal development of all pupils from Early Years through to Sixth Form.
Opening in August 2026, the school will deliver a rigorous, values-driven British education in a world-class campus designed for excellence in academics, character development, and global citizenship. This is a rare opportunity to shape the culture, ethos, and systems of a new international school from its very foundation.
About the School
The school is being established by a team of experienced educators and international school leaders, in partnership with respected local investors. Based in one of China's most vibrant and forward-thinking cities, the school will offer the English National Curriculum (adapted for an international context) from Early Years through to A Levels. The purpose-built campus will feature modern, flexible learning spaces and outstanding facilities to support holistic education.
The Role
As Deputy Head (Pastoral), you will:
- Lead the strategic development of a whole-school pastoral vision, embedding a culture of care, character, and wellbeing.
- Ensure the highest standards of safeguarding and child protection in line with UK and international best practices.
- Oversee behaviour, attendance, and pastoral systems, ensuring consistency across all phases.
- Design and implement wellbeing and personal development programmes to support pupils at each stage of their journey.
- Provide professional leadership to Heads of Year/Key Stage and pastoral staff.
- Be a visible and approachable presence across the school, supporting students, families, and staff.
- Work closely with the Principal and Founding Head of Primary and Secondary to create a warm, inclusive, and aspirational school culture.
The Ideal Candidate
You will be:
- An experienced and values-led senior leader, currently serving as a Deputy Head, Assistant Head, or Head of Pastoral Care in a British or British-style international school.
- Deeply knowledgeable about safeguarding, student wellbeing, and pastoral leadership across all age groups.
- Passionate about developing the whole child and creating a safe, inclusive environment for diverse learners.
- A confident communicator with cultural sensitivity and international-mindedness.
- Excited by the challenges and opportunities of a founding school environment.
- Experience in the design and implementation of whole-school systems – particularly in wellbeing, safeguarding, or personal development – would be a strong advantage.
The School Offers
- A competitive salary and benefits package, commensurate with a senior leadership role.
- High-quality accommodation, relocation assistance, and annual flights.
- Comprehensive private medical insurance.
- Leadership development and ongoing professional learning.
- The unique opportunity to shape a flagship international school from its inception.
Our client is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate background checks, including enhanced DBS (or equivalent), reference verification, and safeguarding protocols.
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