Head of Boarding

Overview

Cochin International School invites applications for the position of Head of Boarding, a key senior pastoral leadership role dedicated to managing and nurturing the residential student community. The ideal candidate will combine strong leadership capabilities with a sincere dedication to the well-being of adolescents, fostering a boarding environment that serves as a comfortable and inclusive home for culturally diverse students.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction and establish standards for the boarding program which align with global best practices and the school’s mission and values.
• Ensure the creation and maintenance of a secure, welcoming, and inclusive atmosphere by enforcing safeguarding policies rigorously and ensuring all personnel are trained to internationally accepted child protection standards.
• Lead recruitment, mentoring, and professional development of House Parents and boarding staff, promoting a team ethos marked by warmth, consistency, and professionalism within a 24/7 residential operation.
• Offer pastoral support addressing the emotional, social, and physical needs of students, especially those living away from home and adapting to new cultural environments.
• Maintain open and transparent communication with parents and guardians, including those residing abroad, regarding student progress, welfare, and concerns.
• Enhance community life by organizing structured activities, cultural events, and celebrations that foster a sense of belonging and intercultural understanding.
• Serve as the primary contact for boarding emergencies and welfare issues, overseeing crisis and incident management according to school protocols.
• Develop, update, and enforce boarding-related policies complying with national regulations and international accreditation requirements such as CIS and safeguarding frameworks.

Qualifications & Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Education is mandatory; a Master’s degree in Psychology, Social Work, Counselling, or a related domain is highly preferred.
• Extensive leadership experience in boarding or residential settings, preferably within an international school context.
• Strong knowledge of adolescent development, challenges faced by students during cross-cultural transitions, and nuanced understanding of the well-being requirements of boarding and international students, including Third Culture Kids.
• Possession of formal safeguarding or child protection training, or readiness to attain certification.
• Excellent interpersonal, written communication, and cross-cultural communication abilities.
• Proven capability to lead a diverse team and collaborate effectively with school leadership, educators, and families across multiple time zones.

Additional Information

Cochin International School is deeply committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children. All candidates selected for this position will undergo comprehensive background checks and reference verifications in accordance with the school’s Child Protection Policy.