Head of School / Principal

Closing Date: 12 May 2025
Location: Hout Bay, Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Company: Ambleside School of Hout Bay
Apply Email: school.office@amblesideschool.co.za
Website: http://www.amblesideschool.co.za


Start Date

2026

Hours

Full-time

Grade Focus

Preferably High School


About Ambleside School

Ambleside Schools International (ASI), founded in 1999, follows the educational philosophy of Charlotte Mason, emphasizing a “living education” that cultivates wisdom, character, and a love of learning.

Ambleside School of Hout Bay opened in 2007 and has since grown into a reputable choice for parents seeking an education nurturing academic excellence, character, relationships, and joyful discovery. Staff share a common commitment to Jesus Christ and the central teachings of the New Testament.


Position Overview

The Head of School / Principal will:

  • Ground leadership in a sincere commitment to Jesus Christ and a love for children and knowledge

  • Cultivate and safeguard a positive, joyful, inspiring, and peacefully authoritative school atmosphere

  • Become deeply competent in leading the Ambleside Method, including curriculum oversight and adherence to ASI standards

  • Serve as the primary spokesperson for the school, interacting warmly and professionally with students, staff, parents, and the wider community

  • Report to the School Board and work closely with the School Business Manager


Personal Qualities

The ideal candidate is:

Spiritually mature, psychologically strong, service-oriented, teachable, loving, 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.


Key Responsibilities

  • Oversee and implement the full school program according to School Board policy, approved budgets, and the Ambleside ethos

  • Participate in ASI principal mentoring programs, conferences, retreats, and collaborative initiatives

  • Complete ASI principal training and mentoring program (travel may be required)

  • Inspire and support the school community through clear communication and authentic leadership

  • Work with the Director of Instruction to develop teachers via observation, feedback, training, evaluation, and staffing decisions

  • Support teachers and, where appropriate, students directly


Minimum Requirements

  • Bachelor’s degree (Master’s preferred)

  • 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 academic or ministry context

  • Introductory knowledge of Charlotte Mason’s philosophy

  • Knowledge of and experience with IEB curriculum

  • CPR and First Aid certification (or willingness to obtain)


How to Apply

Please submit the following to school.office@amblesideschool.co.za:

  • Covering letter

  • Full Curriculum Vitae

  • Names and contact numbers of three recent referees

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

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