Secondary School Head Teacher

Institution: International Maarif Schools of Lusaka, Zambia

Position Type: Full-Time Senior Leadership Position

Reports to: Head Principal

ABOUT INTERNATIONAL MAARIF SCHOOLS OF LUSAKA

International Maarif Schools of Lusaka is an elite, internationally-accredited educational institution managed by the prestigious Turkish Maarif Foundation. We are committed to delivering world-class education that combines global best practices with values-based learning, preparing our students to become critical thinkers, responsible global citizens, and leaders of tomorrow.

POSITION SUMMARY

International Maarif Schools of Lusaka seeks an exceptional and visionary Secondary School Head Teacher to provide strategic leadership and drive educational excellence across all secondary year groups. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, management, and academic performance of the secondary school while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, student welfare, and institutional governance.

This is a pivotal leadership role requiring a transformational educator with extensive senior management experience, deep commitment to academic excellence, and the ability to build and inspire a high-performing teaching staff.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

Strategic Leadership and Vision

• Provide inspirational leadership and establish a compelling vision for school excellence aligned with the Turkish Maarif Foundation’s educational values and philosophy
• Develop and implement strategic plans that drive continuous improvement in academic achievement and institutional effectiveness
• Champion innovation and best practice in secondary education
• Ensure the school’s mission, vision, and values permeate all aspects of school life

Curriculum and Instructional Excellence

• Ensure effective implementation and continuous development of the 2023 Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) across all subject areas and year groups
• Oversee curriculum design, instructional quality standards, and assessment practices
• Monitor teaching and learning effectiveness through rigorous quality assurance mechanisms
• Lead initiatives to enhance student achievement, critical thinking, and skill development
• Promote integration of international educational standards and best practices

Academic Performance and Student Outcomes

• Monitor and analyze student achievement data to identify trends and implement evidence-based interventions
• Set ambitious yet achievable academic targets and hold staff accountable for student progress
• Foster a culture of academic rigor and continuous improvement
• Ensure comprehensive support for student holistic development—academic, social, emotional, and character

Staff Leadership and Development

• Lead the recruitment and selection of high-quality teaching and non-teaching staff
• Establish and implement fair, transparent performance management systems
• Provide mentoring, coaching, and professional development opportunities for staff
• Foster a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive school culture that values diversity
• Recognize and celebrate staff achievements and contributions

Financial and Resource Management

• Manage school finances, budgets, and resource allocation with accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility
• Ensure efficient and strategic deployment of resources to support educational objectives
• Maintain accurate financial records and comply with audit requirements
• Optimize operational efficiency while maintaining educational quality

Governance and Compliance

• Maintain full compliance with Independent Schools Association of Zambia (ISAZ) standards and regulatory requirements
• Ensure adherence to Zambian education policy, legislation, and best practice guidelines
• Uphold institutional governance standards and reporting requirements
• Facilitate accreditation processes and maintain international quality standards

Community and Stakeholder Engagement

• Build and sustain strong partnerships with parents, families, and the local community
• Communicate effectively with all stakeholders regarding school vision, progress, and achievements
• Maintain strong liaison with the Turkish Maarif Foundation and international partners
• Represent the school professionally in community, regional, and national forums
• Promote the school’s international reputation and accreditation standing

Safety, Welfare, and Inclusion

• Foster a safe, secure, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment for all students
• Ensure child safeguarding policies and procedures are rigorously implemented and monitored
• Promote equity, inclusion, and celebration of diversity across the school community
• Maintain high standards of health, safety, and student well-being

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

Education and Credentials:

• Bachelor’s degree in Education (essential)
• Master’s degree in Education Administration, Educational Leadership, or related field (advantageous)
• Current valid Teaching Council of Zambia (TCZ) Practicing License
• Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications

Professional Experience:

• Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in secondary school education
• Minimum 3 years in a demonstrated senior leadership role (e.g., Head of Department, Deputy Head, or equivalent)
• Proven track record of improving student academic achievement and pastoral care outcomes
• Substantive experience implementing the 2023 CBC Curriculum framework
• Documented expertise in ISAZ guidelines, independent school management, and quality assurance processes

Knowledge and Expertise:

• Comprehensive knowledge of Zambian education policy, regulatory frameworks, and quality standards
• Strong understanding of international educational standards and accreditation requirements
• Expertise in financial management and strategic resource allocation
• Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, develop, and evaluate teaching staff
• Advanced knowledge of contemporary secondary education practices and pedagogical approaches

Professional Attributes:

• Visionary, strategic thinking with ability to articulate clear educational direction
• Exemplary leadership presence and inspirational communication skills
• Strong commitment to values-based education, character development, and student welfare
• Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and ethical decision-making
• Exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence in managing complex situations

DESIRABLE QUALITIES

• Substantive experience in an international or values-driven educational setting
• Familiarity with the Turkish Maarif Foundation’s educational philosophy and global network
• Proven expertise in school accreditation, quality assurance, and institutional improvement initiatives
• Knowledge of digital transformation and technology integration in secondary education
• Background in multicultural, inclusive, and socially responsive educational leadership
• Understanding of comparative educational systems and international best practices
• Experience with strategic planning and organizational change management

WHAT WE OFFER

• Highly competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications, experience, and market standards
• Performance-based incentives and recognition programs
• Professional development and international training opportunities through the Turkish Maarif Foundation network
• Access to educational conferences, workshops, and leadership development programs
• Supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment
• Opportunity to lead and shape a premier, internationally-recognized educational institution
• Exposure to global educational practices and international partnership networks

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

Qualified candidates are required to submit a comprehensive application package including:

• Detailed Curriculum Vitae with contact information and employment history
• Three (3) Professional References from previous employers or educational leaders (with contact details)
• Cover Letter outlining your vision and approach to secondary school leadership
• Certified Copies of academic qualifications, professional credentials, and teaching certificates
• Evidence of CBC and ISAZ Compliance Experience (examples of curriculum implementation, quality assurance initiatives, or related documentation)
• Current Valid Teaching Council of Zambia (TCZ) Practising License

All application materials should be compiled into a single PDF document for ease of processing.

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