At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead fundraising efforts and engage with alumnae to support talented students.
- Company: Join the oldest independent girls' school in London, known for its vibrant community.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension scheme, free gym membership, and more perks.
- Other info: Dynamic environment with a commitment to diversity and inclusion.
- Why this job: Make a real difference in students' lives through impactful fundraising and community engagement.
- Qualifications: Well-qualified graduate with excellent interpersonal skills and a passion for education.
This is an exciting opportunity to lead our Development and Alumnae Relations department. The full job description covers all associated skills, previous experience, and any qualifications that applicants are expected to have. This post is the continuation of an exciting journey that has seen the Development and Alumnae Relations Department grow into a vibrant and extensive network of supporters. Your dynamic and creative approach will strengthen the school’s already outstanding commitment to bursary provision by growing successful fundraising, thereby ensuring that talented young students, whatever their financial background, have the opportunity to flourish in the life-changing education that JAGS offers.
Our bursary provision is central to the school’s ethos, with around 17% of the Senior School students receiving financial support for their studies at an annual cost of around £3m. We are looking for a well-qualified graduate to join this exceptional staff body, and the successful candidate will bring their own individuality to this warm and supportive department. Excellent interpersonal skills, a readiness to engage with potential donors, parents, alumnae and school staff, and the ability to contribute to the school’s strategic aims are essential attributes. The successful candidate will fully understand the importance and significance of the school’s long-established provision of bursaries, and just how unique this is to our school’s ethos.
In addition, the Head of Development and Alumnae Relations will lead the JAGS Alumnae Association through the stewardship of our extensive alumnae network, leading a dynamic programme of events and engagement with these important stakeholders.
We offer:
- The opportunity to join our outstanding school where public examination results consistently place JAGS amongst the leading schools in the UK
- A community of considerate, creative and compassionate students and staff
- A highly diverse and inclusive school community, committed to our bursary provision
- An inspiring and enthusiastic team of colleagues across the teaching and support staff
- Excellent facilities, including the latest resources to support learning
- A diverse benefits package including:
- Competitive salary
- Support Staff Pension scheme with 10% employer contributions
- Enhanced sickness, maternity and paternity pay
- Free onsite parking and bicycle storage
- Free gym membership with discounted family rates
- Employee Assistance Programme
- Free lunches, teas and coffee all year round
- Free access to the Dulwich Picture Gallery
- School fee discount
- Cycle to work scheme
- Cycle hire scheme
- Interest-free computer loans
- Interest-free transport season ticket loans
With its distinctive heritage as the oldest independent girls’ school in London, James Allen’s Girls’ School provides a forward-thinking and contemporary education for over 1200 girls aged 4 to 18. Located in the London borough of Southwark, JAGS has a diverse school community and is committed to inclusion in the workplace.
Our school aims, both in and out of the classroom, are clear:
- To celebrate our diverse and inclusive community
- To champion social awareness and sustainability
- To empower courage, creativity and compassion in each student
- To inspire aspirational and authentic lifelong learners and leaders
- To nurture respectful, resilient and kind individuals
If this matches your vision, then this is the perfect opportunity for you.
How to apply:
We recognise that celebrating the full diversity of staff and students has a positive impact on all and invite applications from candidates from a broad range of backgrounds. To enable us to make any reasonable adjustments, please let us know when you submit your application whether you have any special requirements. If you are interested in joining us, please complete the online application form via MyNewTerm. CVs and covering letters sent via email will not be accepted.
Closing Date: Midday on Monday 8 June 2026
Interview Date: Week commencing Monday 8 June 2026
Interviews may be held at any stage after applications are received. Interested candidates are advised to apply as soon as possible. We reserve the right to close this vacancy earlier than the specified deadline, if a suitable candidate is found.
JAGS is committed to the safeguarding and welfare of children and applicants must be willing to undergo child protection screening appropriate to this post, including checks with past employers, the Disclosure and Barring Service, and overseas police and regulatory authorities where relevant.
Head of Development and Alumnae Relations employer: JAMES ALLENS GIRLS SCHOOL
James Allen's Girls' School (JAGS) is an exceptional employer, offering a vibrant and inclusive work culture that prioritises the growth and development of its staff. With a commitment to social awareness and sustainability, JAGS provides a supportive environment where employees can thrive, alongside a diverse benefits package that includes competitive salaries, generous pension contributions, and access to excellent facilities. Located in the heart of Southwark, this historic institution not only champions educational excellence but also fosters a community of compassionate and creative individuals dedicated to empowering the next generation of leaders.
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of Development and Alumnae Relations
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience in development and alumnae relations. A friendly chat can lead to valuable insights or even a referral.
✨Tip Number 2
Show your passion for bursary provision! When you get the chance to speak with potential employers, share your thoughts on how important it is to support students from diverse backgrounds. This will resonate with JAGS' ethos.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by researching the school’s history and its alumnae network. Knowing the ins and outs of JAGS will help you stand out and show that you're genuinely interested in being part of their community.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, it shows you’re serious about joining the team at JAGS.
We think you need these skills to ace Head of Development and Alumnae Relations
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion:When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for the role shine through! We want to see how your dynamic and creative approach aligns with our commitment to bursary provision and supporting talented students.
Tailor Your CV and Cover Letter:Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter to highlight your relevant experience and skills. We’re looking for someone who understands the unique ethos of our school, so connect your background to our mission!
Be Personable:Since excellent interpersonal skills are essential, don’t hesitate to showcase your ability to engage with various stakeholders. We love seeing candidates who can connect with potential donors, parents, and alumnae in a warm and supportive manner.
Apply Through Our Website:Remember, we only accept applications via MyNewTerm, so make sure to complete the online application form there. It’s the best way for us to receive your details and get you on board for this exciting journey!
How to prepare for a job interview at JAMES ALLENS GIRLS SCHOOL
✨Know the School's Ethos
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the unique ethos of the school, especially its commitment to bursary provision. Be ready to discuss how your values align with this mission and how you can contribute to enhancing it.
✨Engage with the Community
Demonstrate your interpersonal skills by preparing examples of how you've successfully engaged with diverse stakeholders in the past. Whether it's potential donors or alumnae, showing that you can build relationships will be key.
✨Showcase Your Fundraising Experience
Be prepared to talk about your previous fundraising successes and strategies. Highlight specific campaigns you've led or contributed to, and how they align with the school's goals of supporting talented students from all backgrounds.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
At the end of the interview, have a few insightful questions ready. This shows your genuine interest in the role and the school. Ask about future initiatives for the Alumnae Association or how the school plans to expand its bursary programme.
