At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead the British Section, driving excellence in teaching and fostering a vibrant learning community.
- Company: Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, a prestigious international school in London.
- Benefits: Opportunity to shape education in a bilingual environment and contribute to strategic school development.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to safeguarding and student wellbeing.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a diverse, globally minded academic community.
- Qualifications: Significant leadership experience, strong knowledge of GCSE and A Level, fluency in English and French.
The predicted salary is between 50000 - 70000 € per year.
The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle, one of London’s leading international schools, is seeking to appoint an exceptional and dynamic Headteacher of the British Section for September 2026 or January 2027. This is a rare opportunity to lead a high-performing and distinctive academic community within a large, diverse, and globally minded French international school.
The British Section offers a rigorous and successful GCSE and A Level pathway, combining the strengths of the British education system with the richness of a bilingual and multicultural environment. The successful candidate will lead and further develop this provision, ensuring outstanding outcomes while nurturing a culture of intellectual ambition, independence, and inclusion.
As a key member of the senior leadership team, the Headteacher will also contribute to the strategic direction of the wider school and will hold a Deputy Headship responsibility.
The role
- Provide clear and inspiring leadership of the British Section
- Drive excellence in teaching, learning, and outcomes at GCSE and A Level
- Lead on assessment, reporting, and public examinations (Head of Centre)
- Promote a strong culture of safeguarding, inclusion, and student wellbeing
- Foster a vibrant, ambitious, and supportive learning community
- Work closely with colleagues across the Lycée to strengthen its bilingual and international mission
We are looking for a candidate who has:
Essential
- Significant senior leadership experience in a secondary school setting
- A good honours degree
- Extensive knowledge of the British GCSE and A-level curriculum
- Proven ability to secure high academic outcomes (outside your subject specialism) and lead school improvement
- Experience of inclusive leadership and oversight of examination access arrangements
- In-depth understanding of examination and regulatory frameworks, ensuring full compliance
- Experience with inspection frameworks (e.g., Ofsted or ISI)
- Strong organisational and strategic leadership skills
- A firm commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and student wellbeing
- Ability to lead and inspire staff within a high-performing team
- Full fluency in English and French
Desirable
- Direct experience of the French education system (AEFE, Baccalauréat)
- Experience of working within or alongside dual-curriculum or cross-cultural educational structures
- Previous experience as headteacher or deputy head of school
- A background in the independent sector—particularly within an independent or international school in London—would be highly advantageous
- Familiarity of leading schools through inspections, particularly Ofsted
- Experience of university guidance and post-18 pathways (UK and international)
- A background working with SEND provision and external specialists
- Demonstrated expertise in contributing to whole-school strategic development
If you are inspired by the opportunity of leading the British section within a distinctive bilingual and internationally renowned school, please forward your CV and covering letter to or by clicking the 'Apply' button. For a confidential discussion and candidate information pack, please contact Devra Farhi at 020 7820 7308 for further details.
The deadline for applications is Friday, 15th May, and interviews commence the week of 18th May. The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. The successful applicant will be required to undergo an enhanced DBS check and comply with all safeguarding requirements.
Headteacher of The British Section - Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle de Londres in Slough employer: Harris Hill Independent Schools
The Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle de Londres is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a high-performing British Section within a vibrant bilingual and multicultural environment. With a strong commitment to safeguarding, inclusion, and student wellbeing, the school fosters a supportive work culture that encourages professional growth and collaboration among staff. Located in one of London's leading international schools, this role provides the chance to make a meaningful impact on students' academic journeys while being part of a dynamic and diverse educational community.
Contact Detail:
Harris Hill Independent Schools Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Headteacher of The British Section - Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle de Londres in Slough
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your contacts in the education sector, especially those who have experience with international schools. They might have insider info or even know about unadvertised positions that could be perfect for you.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s ethos and values. Understand their approach to bilingual education and safeguarding. This will help you tailor your responses and show that you're genuinely interested in leading their British Section.
✨Tip Number 3
Showcase your leadership style! During interviews, share specific examples of how you've driven excellence in teaching and learning. Highlight your experience with inclusive leadership and how you've fostered a supportive learning environment.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we’re here to support you throughout the process, so don’t hesitate to reach out if you need any tips or guidance.
We think you need these skills to ace Headteacher of The British Section - Lycée Français Charles de Gaulle de Londres in Slough
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your CV:Make sure your CV reflects the specific skills and experiences that match the job description. Highlight your senior leadership experience and any relevant achievements in the British education system to stand out.
Craft a Compelling Cover Letter:Your cover letter is your chance to shine! Use it to express your passion for leading the British Section and how your vision aligns with the school's mission. Be personal and engaging, showing us why you're the perfect fit.
Showcase Your Leadership Style:In both your CV and cover letter, give examples of how you've inspired and led teams in the past. We want to see your approach to fostering a supportive learning community and driving academic excellence.
Apply Through Our Website:Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the easiest way for us to receive your documents and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity. Plus, it shows you’re tech-savvy!
How to prepare for a job interview at Harris Hill Independent Schools
✨Know Your Curriculum Inside Out
Make sure you have a solid grasp of the British GCSE and A Level curriculum. Be prepared to discuss how you can drive excellence in teaching and learning, and share specific examples of how you've secured high academic outcomes in your previous roles.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a potential Headteacher, it's crucial to demonstrate your leadership style. Think about how you can inspire and lead a high-performing team. Prepare anecdotes that highlight your experience in inclusive leadership and how you've fostered a supportive learning community.
✨Understand the Inspection Frameworks
Familiarise yourself with inspection frameworks like Ofsted or ISI. Be ready to discuss your experiences with inspections and how you've led schools through them successfully. This will show your understanding of compliance and quality assurance in education.
✨Emphasise Your Bilingual Skills
Since the role involves working within a bilingual environment, make sure to highlight your fluency in both English and French. Discuss any experiences you've had in cross-cultural educational settings and how you can contribute to the school's international mission.
