At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead and inspire academic excellence in a dynamic junior school environment.
- Company: Join one of the world's most successful schools with exceptional facilities.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, supportive community, and opportunities for professional growth.
- Why this job: Shape the future of education and make a real impact on young learners.
- Qualifications: Outstanding teaching skills and a passion for fostering a love of learning.
- Other info: Be part of a vibrant team committed to inclusivity and student welfare.
The predicted salary is between 36000 - 60000 £ per year.
We are excited to invite applications for the role of junior school assistant head (academic) from September 2026. This role focuses on facilitating an outstanding learning environment within the junior school and ensuring that the academic life of the school operates smoothly and effectively. The postholder will support excellent academic and intellectual development so that the classroom experience is inspiring, engaging and intellectually stimulating, scholarship and love of learning are deeply embedded in school life, programmes of study offer a progressive and enriching pupil experience, responsive to individual needs; and all junior school pupils make excellent progress and fulfil their personal potential.
The junior school assistant head (academic) is a member of the junior school senior management team, working closely to support the junior school headmaster in the leadership and development of the junior school. They will develop and implement an academic strategy and vision which embraces our whole school strategic focus on preparing King’s pupils for the evolving world beyond school and maximises the educational potential of our new world-class junior school campus which will combine learning environments for Rushmere (years 3-4) and Priory (years 5-6) for the first time. They will also play a key role in leading the educational preparation for co-education as we prepare to welcome girls into the junior school for the first time from September 2029.
This post works closely with the deputy head (education and teaching development) and the deputy head (director of studies) in the senior school to ensure an enriching and coherent intellectual journey for pupils from age 7 to age 18, in line with our whole school educational vision.
Person Specification
- Has a clear vision for a first-rate, modern, skills-based curriculum for a co-educational junior school, in line with the school ethos.
- Is committed to academic excellence and eager to share in the joy of learning inside and outside the classroom.
- Is an outstanding teacher, with an ability to contribute to the wider life of the school.
- Is a dynamic and inspirational leader who is able to lead and manage colleagues.
- Communicates effectively, with experience of change management at a whole-school level.
- Is able to work as part of a team, forging excellent working relationships with a wide range of stakeholders.
- Has strong pastoral instincts and seeks to promote the school’s values among the pupil body.
- Is analytical, with experience of utilising data to optimise pupil outcomes.
- Is able to prioritise and manage time effectively, demonstrating resilience and flexibility.
King’s is one of the most successful schools in the world, with outstanding academic results, first-class pastoral care and a vibrant co-curriculum. Overlooking Wimbledon Common, the school is situated in one of the most attractive parts of south east England and benefits from exceptional grounds and facilities.
Closing date: Monday 26th January 2026 at 9am
Interviews: week commencing 2nd February 2026
This post is exempt from the Rehabilitation of Offenders Act (ROA) 1974. King’s is fully committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and expects all staff to share this commitment. Applicants will be required to undergo child protection screening appropriate to the post, including checks with past employers and the Disclosure and Barring Service. King’s College School is fully committed to the principles of equality, diversity and inclusivity in its recruitment of teaching and support staff.
Junior School Assistant Head (Academic) employer: King’s College School
Contact Detail:
King’s College School Recruiting Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice 🤫
We think this is how you could land Junior School Assistant Head (Academic)
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to current or former staff at the school, and don’t be shy about asking for insights. A friendly chat can give us the inside scoop on what they’re really looking for in a Junior School Assistant Head.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for the interview by diving deep into the school's ethos and values. We want to show that we’re not just a good fit on paper but that we genuinely resonate with their mission of fostering a love of learning and academic excellence.
✨Tip Number 3
Bring your A-game to the interview! Think about how you can demonstrate your leadership skills and innovative ideas for the curriculum. We need to showcase our vision for a modern, skills-based approach that aligns with their goals.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to follow up after the interview! A quick thank-you email can go a long way in keeping us top of mind. Let’s express our enthusiasm for the role and reiterate how we can contribute to their vibrant school community.
We think you need these skills to ace Junior School Assistant Head (Academic)
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion for Education: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for teaching and learning shine through. We want to see how you can inspire students and create an engaging classroom environment that aligns with our vision for academic excellence.
Tailor Your Application: Make sure to customise your application to reflect the specific requirements of the Junior School Assistant Head (Academic) role. Highlight your experience in developing academic strategies and how you can contribute to our school's ethos and goals.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application straightforward and to the point. Use clear language to communicate your ideas and experiences, ensuring we can easily see how you meet the person specification and what you bring to the table.
Apply Through Our Website: We encourage you to submit your application through our website. This way, you’ll ensure it reaches us directly and you can keep track of your application status. Plus, it’s super easy to do!
How to prepare for a job interview at King’s College School
✨Know the School's Vision
Before your interview, take some time to really understand the school's ethos and vision. Familiarise yourself with their approach to academic excellence and how they plan to integrate co-education. This will help you align your answers with their goals and demonstrate that you're on the same page.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Skills
As a potential junior school assistant head, you'll need to exhibit strong leadership qualities. Prepare examples of how you've successfully led teams or managed change in an educational setting. Highlight your ability to inspire colleagues and foster a collaborative environment.
✨Engage with Data-Driven Insights
Since the role involves utilising data to optimise pupil outcomes, be ready to discuss your experience with data analysis. Bring specific examples of how you've used data to inform teaching strategies or improve student performance, showcasing your analytical skills.
✨Prepare for Pastoral Care Questions
Given the importance of pastoral care in the role, think about how you've supported students' well-being in the past. Be prepared to share your thoughts on promoting the school's values among pupils and how you would approach fostering a supportive learning environment.