Assistant Head of Primary - Teaching and Learning

Role Overview

The Assistant Head of Primary – Teaching & Learning holds a critical leadership position dedicated to fostering high-quality teaching, learning, and academic coherence aligned with the American curriculum in the Primary School. Reporting to the Head of Primary, this role champions a culture prioritizing growth, inclusion, and continuous improvement while maintaining a hands-on teaching commitment.

Leadership and Strategic Responsibilities

• Ensure the safeguarding and welfare of all Primary students according to institutional policies and professional standards.
• Collaborate with school leadership to drive strategic initiatives, policy development, and prioritized goals for the Primary School.
• Support an inclusive, positive school climate with consistent behavior standards and enriched learning environments.
• Manage curriculum resources responsibly and maintain up-to-date knowledge of educational best practices and compliance mandates.
• Uphold school policies and procedures consistently across the Primary division.

Teaching and Instructional Leadership

• Engage directly in teaching responsibilities up to 50%, balancing leadership functions with active classroom practice.
• Lead instructional excellence by conducting learning observations, providing constructive feedback, and fostering research-informed teaching methods aligned with school objectives.
• Encourage a culture of challenge and support to maximize student engagement and achievement.
• Serve as a role model by exemplifying superior teaching standards.

Curriculum and Assessment Leadership

• Strategically guide curriculum coherence throughout Primary grades, ensuring alignment with AERO standards and defined learning sequences.
• Oversee and enhance assessment strategies, including MAP tests and moderation processes to maintain consistency and accuracy.
• Lead data-driven analysis of student performance to inform instructional planning and improvements.
• Collaborate with teachers to utilize assessment data effectively for differentiated instruction.
• Contribute to quality assurance efforts regarding curriculum effectiveness and student results.

Leadership and Collaboration

• Directly superintend Primary Subject Leads and support Grade Level Leaders, offering guidance, coaching, and performance management.
• Work cooperatively with Early Childhood leadership to ensure smooth curriculum transitions between divisions.
• Exemplify professionalism and a commitment to reflective practice and continuous school advancement.

Professional Development

• Design, implement, and assess professional learning programs aligned with strategic instructional priorities.
• Coach faculty members to promote reflective practice, enhance teaching skills, and support professional growth.
• Facilitate the induction and development of new and early-career educators.
• Develop leadership capacities within the Primary team, nurturing emerging leaders.

Stakeholder Engagement and Communication

• Build strong, transparent relationships with parents, students, and the broader community promoting clear communication on academic matters.
• Collaborate with leadership to encourage parent participation in academic initiatives.

Safeguarding and Compliance

• Act as Deputy Designated Safeguarding Lead to reinforce student protection and welfare.
• Support safeguarding protocols and compliance with local and international accreditation standards (ISP, NEASC, MoEHE).
• Promote a safe, responsible, and professional learning environment.

Operational Duties

• Provide visible leadership in daily Primary School operations and participate in leadership groups and committees as needed.
• Perform additional professional responsibilities assigned by the Head of Primary, including duties beyond regular school hours when necessary.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education or related discipline; a Master’s in Education Leadership or equivalent is preferred.
• At least three years of leadership experience within a Primary or similar educational setting.
• Proven expertise in leading instructional improvement, curriculum development, and teacher support.
• Familiarity with the American or American-international curricular frameworks highly desirable.
• Fluent English language skills required.

Skills and Personal Qualities

• Comprehensive knowledge of instructional strategies and Primary curriculum design.
• Data analytical skills for student performance evaluation.
• Strong leadership, communication, and interpersonal competencies.
• Strategic thinking coupled with practical classroom awareness.
• Ability to nurture positive team relationships and foster a culture of continuous improvement.
• High proficiency in educational IT tools and administration.
• Demonstrated passion, organization, reliability, and innovation in educational leadership.

Additional Commitments

• Uphold the school’s vision, mission, professional ethics, and confidentiality.
• Adhere to ISP’s principles emphasizing student-centered focus, inclusivity, operational effectiveness, financial responsibility, and ongoing learning.
• Participate fully in safeguarding procedures, including background checks as part of employment.
• Support diversity, equity, inclusion, and belonging efforts with a dedication to hiring and retaining diverse talent.