Head of Secondary

This role will be located in a school in Malaysia; it is not remote

The International Schools Partnership (ISP) is continuing to grow, and as we look to expand our presence in Malaysia, we're seeking Heads of Secondary and Aspiring Heads of Secondary who are ready to take on a transformative role in international education.

If you're passionate about amazing learning, experienced with the British curriculum, and bring a strong operational mindset, this could be the opportunity you've been waiting for.

Join a global group that is committed to empowering school leaders, fostering collaboration, and making a lasting impact on students and communities.

About ISP

ISP is a leading and growing group of 113 private international schools operating in more than 25 markets and educating over 92,500 students worldwide.

Our role at ISP is to support and enable our schools to become the schools of choice in their local communities and the global education sector. We strive to grow schools renowned for setting new standards of excellence in education, cultivating future-ready students and enriching the communities they serve.

Why choose ISP to be your career of choice

• Global Influence: Lead in an international setting that promotes global-mindedness and cultural exchange for both students and staff.
• Excellence in Education: Be part of a global network committed to delivering a high-quality, world-class education, empowering students for success in an interconnected world.
• State-of-the-Art Facilities: Take on the challenge of leading in modern, innovative learning environments equipped with the latest technology to support progressive teaching practices.
• Leadership Development: We prioritise the growth of our leaders. Benefit from ongoing professional development designed to keep you at the cutting edge of educational leadership.

Purpose of Role

The Head of International Secondary provides strategic, educational and operational leadership. The post-holder is responsible for ensuring outstanding teaching and learning, strong academic outcomes, and a safe, inclusive school culture where all students experience amazing learning and develop as curious, confident learners.

The role requires close collaboration with the Campus Principal, Senior Leadership Team (SLT), Functional Leads and the wider ISP network to deliver high standards of learning, curriculum, assessment, and pastoral care across the Secondary School.

The Head of International Secondary is a key member of the Campus Leadership Team and contributes to the strategic development of the whole campus.

Responsibilities

Teaching, Learning & Curriculum Leadership

• Lead high-quality teaching and learning that inspires, challenges, and supports every student.
• Model and embed the school's philosophy of amazing learning, promoting curiosity, resilience and creativity.
• Set high expectations for curriculum design and delivery in line with the National Curriculum for England and IGCSE pathways.
• Lead Learning Visits and teacher evaluation processes.
• Promote coaching and professional learning to build teaching expertise.
• Oversee curriculum planning, implementation and review for all subjects and year groups in Secondary.
• Ensure equitable access and personalised support for students with additional needs (EAL, SEN).
• Lead smooth transition points within Secondary and between key stages.

Assessment, Data & Reporting

• Oversee all assessment, recording and reporting procedures ensuring accuracy, compliance and alignment with school and ISP standards.
• Lead analysis of student progress and attainment data to identify trends and inform improvement.
• Guide teachers in the effective use of assessment to improve learning.
• Oversee examinations and standardised assessments, ensuring readiness and compliance.
• Contribute to IEPs/ILPs and collaborate with Admissions on academic assessments for new students.

Leadership & Management

• Provide visible, values-driven leadership as part of the Campus SLT.
• Contribute to whole-school strategic planning, policy development and evaluation.
• Lead staff on behaviour, attendance and wellbeing, ensuring high standards of conduct and care.
• Manage staff performance, professional development, capability and conduct matters.
• Oversee financial planning within Secondary and ensure effective deployment of resources.
• Lead professional development aligned with ISP learning priorities and global learning pathways.
• Build positive and professional relationships with parents and carers.
• Represent the school at community events and professional networks.
• Participate in scheduled SLT duties including before/after-school support and weekend events as per contract.

Culture, Community & Safeguarding

• Build an inclusive school culture rooted in the school's values and ISP's commitment to developing curious, confident minds.
• Promote student voice, wellbeing and leadership.
• Ensure the safety and safeguarding of all students, acting in full accordance with school and ISP safeguarding policies.
• Maintain high standards of communication, professionalism and integrity.
• Strengthen community engagement through proactive communication and parent partnership

Requirements

• Bachelor's degree and recognised teaching qualification (essential).
• Substantial successful leadership experience in a secondary school setting; experience as Head of Secondary and/or senior leadership in an international setting desirable.
• Strong knowledge of the UK National Curriculum and IGCSE frameworks.
• Demonstrated impact on student outcomes through leadership of teaching, learning and curriculum development.
• Strong data literacy, able to interpret data to drive improvement.
• Experience leading safeguarding, behaviour, and pastoral systems.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the capacity to lead within a diverse, international community.
• Experience developing staff through coaching and professional learning.
• Ability to work strategically and operationally, managing multiple priorities.
• Commitment to innovation and effective use of educational technology.
• Evidence of continuous professional development; NPQSL/NPQH or equivalent desirable.
• A commitment to the ISP principles of safeguarding and wellbeing for all staff and students.

ISP Commitment to Safeguarding Principles

ISP is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All post holders are subject to appropriate vetting procedures and satisfactory Criminal Background Checks or equivalent covering the previous 10 years employment history.

ISP Commitment to Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging

ISP is committed to strengthening our inclusive culture by identifying, hiring, developing, and retaining high-performing teammates regardless of gender, ethnicity, sexual orientation and gender expression, age, disability status, neurodivergence, socio-economic background or other demographic characteristics. Candidates who share our vision and principles and are interested in contributing to the success of ISP through this role are strongly encouraged to apply.