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For Companies At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead an international boarding college with a focus on personalised learning and strategic development.
- Company: Dukes Education, known for its supportive and collaborative culture.
- Benefits: Competitive salary and the opportunity to shape future leaders in education.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a modern, international educational setting.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in UK or British international schools.
- Other info: Join a dynamic team committed to educational excellence and cultural awareness.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
Dukes Education (Colleges) seeks a dynamic Headteacher for Earlscliffe, an international boarding college (Years 11-13) in Folkestone, Kent to start ideally in September 2026. Earlscliffe has established a strong reputation in a short period of time and is known for its warm, family atmosphere, small class sizes and a highly personalised approach to learning. It follows an IGCSE/GCSE curriculum in Year 11 (an accelerated, reduced three term course) and A-levels in Years 12-13. We also offer diploma and Foundation courses in Year 13. The college is very much a modern, international institution in a British setting.
The role
We are looking for a Head who is both strategic and empathetic — someone who leads by example, listens attentively and communicates with clarity and integrity. We are looking for an experienced and successful senior leader who is willing to give a long-term commitment to Earlscliffe. The successful candidate will work closely with a supportive governing body, deepening collaborative ties within Dukes Education while ensuring the college's spirit and values remain central to its identity. They should be comfortable working within a wider international context.
Experience required
- Have a track record of senior leadership in a UK school or British international school delivering an IGCSE/A-level programme
- Show evidence of educational thought leadership
- Possess experience of managing international students through the UCAS process
- Show evidence of working successfully with senior colleagues in delivering measurable outcomes
- Have highly developed interpersonal skills and can demonstrate cultural awareness and empathy in dealings with students, parents and staff
- Possess experience in strategic planning
- Possess excellent financial management skills with a track record of meeting targets
- Have a track record of working successfully with a governing body and external stakeholders
- Have experience of dealing with international agents
- Experience of dealing with inspection compliance
Application
The application deadline is 30 January 2026.
Principal in Folkestone employer: Kent Tech
Contact Detail:
Kent Tech Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Principal in Folkestone
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have experience with international schools. They might have insider info or even know about opportunities that aren't advertised yet.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's ethos and values. Show us how your leadership style aligns with their mission. We want to see that you can embody the warm, family atmosphere they pride themselves on.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your communication skills! As a Principal, you'll need to convey your vision clearly. Try mock interviews with friends or mentors to refine your message and ensure it resonates with the interview panel.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets noticed. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative to engage directly with us.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal in Folkestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your CV and cover letter for the Principal role. Highlight your leadership experience and how it aligns with Earlscliffe's values and approach to education.
Showcase Your Experience: Don’t just list your previous roles; share specific examples of your achievements in senior leadership, especially in managing IGCSE/A-level programmes and working with international students.
Be Authentic: Let your personality shine through in your application. We want to see your passion for education and how you connect with students, parents, and staff in a warm, family atmosphere.
Apply Through Our Website: For the best chance of success, make sure to submit your application through our website. It’s the easiest way for us to keep track of your application and get back to you!
How to prepare for a job interview at Kent Tech
✨Know Your Stuff
Make sure you’re well-versed in the IGCSE/A-level curriculum and the specific needs of international students. Brush up on your knowledge about Dukes Education and Earlscliffe’s values, as this will show your genuine interest and alignment with their mission.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
Prepare to discuss your leadership approach and how it aligns with the empathetic and strategic qualities they’re looking for. Think of examples where you’ve led by example, listened to your team, and communicated effectively to achieve results.
✨Cultural Awareness is Key
Given the international context of the role, be ready to demonstrate your cultural awareness and empathy. Share experiences where you’ve successfully managed diverse teams or worked with international students, highlighting your ability to connect with people from different backgrounds.
✨Financial Savvy Matters
Since financial management is crucial for this role, prepare to discuss your experience in meeting financial targets and managing budgets. Bring specific examples that showcase your skills in strategic planning and working with governing bodies to achieve measurable outcomes.
