Upper School Deputy Head Academic at Harrow International School Beijing in Chaoyang District
Harrow International School Beijing is seeking an experienced and driven educational leader to join its Upper School Senior Leadership Team as Deputy Head – Academic. This full-time, permanent position plays a central role in shaping the academic direction and culture of one of Beijing’s most prestigious international schools.
Job Description
As Deputy Head Academic, you will carry strategic and operational accountability for the entire academic life of the Upper School. Your remit spans curriculum development, teaching quality, student achievement, and the ongoing refinement of programmes that uphold Harrow Beijing’s reputation for excellence. Key responsibilities include:
- Articulating and realising the Upper School’s academic vision in alignment with Harrow Beijing’s mission, values, and ethos.
- Providing professional leadership and line management to teaching staff, fostering a culture of high expectations and continuous improvement.
- Driving strategic planning with a direct focus on elevating educational quality and measurable student outcomes.
- Overseeing timetabling, academic programme delivery, and curriculum planning across all Upper School year groups.
- Liaising with the China Studies and Government Affairs teams to ensure full compliance and best provision for students.
- Maintaining effective classroom behaviour frameworks and promoting a well-ordered, emotionally secure learning environment throughout the school.
- Engaging constructively with data, inspection outcomes, and critical feedback to drive improvements in teaching practice and student attainment.
- Collaborating closely with parents, treating their perspectives as an integral part of the learning process.
- Championing innovative approaches from across the broader educational field to keep programmes current and impactful.
Requirements
- A Bachelor’s degree or above (education or a relevant discipline).
- Demonstrated prior experience in a senior or middle leadership role within an international or high-performing school.
- A proven track record of raising student attainment and improving standards through high-quality teaching and strategic oversight.
- Detailed, first-hand knowledge of Upper School practice, policy, and curriculum delivery.
- Strong familiarity with timetabling systems and academic programme management.
- A clear and forward-looking vision for academic programme development and a demonstrated ability to manage change effectively.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills with students, staff, and families.
- Sound understanding of child development, positive disciplinary methods, and their impact on behaviour and learning.
- Commitment to safeguarding and the welfare of children; successful candidates will be subject to thorough pre-appointment safeguarding checks.
- Respect for and active promotion of the values and ethos of Harrow Beijing.
Benefits
Harrow International School Beijing offers a competitive package commensurate with experience and the seniority of this role. As part of the AISL Harrow network, staff benefit from access to outstanding professional development, a collaborative international community, and a world-class educational environment.
About the School
Harrow International School Beijing is a member of the AISL Harrow family of schools, renowned globally for its rigorous academic standards and strong values-based community. Located in the Chaoyang District, the school serves a diverse, international student body and is committed to equal opportunities and the highest standards of safeguarding across all its communities.