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- Tasks: Lead an international boarding college with a focus on personalised learning and student success.
- 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 dynamic educational environment with a strong community spirit.
- Qualifications: Proven senior leadership experience in UK or British international schools.
- Other info: Join a modern institution committed to safeguarding and promoting student welfare.
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 requires 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
The application deadline is 30 January 2026. Please visit both the Dukes Education and Earlscliffe websites for more information on the college and the wider organisation. Dukes Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.
Principal in Folkestone employer: The Boarding Schools' Association
Contact Detail:
The Boarding Schools' Association 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 unadvertised opportunities.
✨Tip Number 2
Prepare for interviews by researching the college's ethos and values. Show us that you understand what makes Earlscliffe special and how you can contribute to its warm, family atmosphere.
✨Tip Number 3
Practice your leadership stories! Be ready to share specific examples of how you've led teams, managed challenges, and achieved results in previous roles. We want to hear about your strategic thinking and empathetic approach.
✨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 us you’re serious about joining the Dukes Education family.
We think you need these skills to ace Principal in Folkestone
Some tips for your application 🫡
Show Your Passion: When writing your application, let your enthusiasm for education and leadership shine through. We want to see how your values align with Earlscliffe's warm, family atmosphere and commitment to personalised learning.
Tailor Your Experience: Make sure to highlight your relevant experience in senior leadership roles, especially in UK or British international schools. We’re looking for specific examples that demonstrate your success in delivering IGCSE/A-level programmes and managing international students.
Be Clear and Concise: Keep your application clear and to the point. Use straightforward language to communicate your ideas and experiences. We appreciate clarity and integrity, so make sure your application reflects that.
Apply Through Our Website: Don’t forget to submit your application through our website! It’s the best way for us to receive your details and ensures you’re considered for this exciting opportunity at Earlscliffe.
How to prepare for a job interview at The Boarding Schools' Association
✨Know Your Stuff
Before the interview, dive deep into the ethos and values of Earlscliffe. Understand their approach to education and be ready to discuss how your leadership style aligns with their mission. This shows you’re not just interested in the role, but genuinely invested in the college's success.
✨Showcase Your Experience
Prepare specific examples from your past leadership roles that highlight your strategic planning and financial management skills. Be ready to discuss measurable outcomes you've achieved, especially in managing international students and working with governing bodies.
✨Demonstrate Empathy and Communication
Since the role requires strong interpersonal skills, think of scenarios where you’ve effectively communicated with students, parents, and staff. Share how you’ve listened to concerns and fostered a supportive environment, as this will resonate well with the college’s family atmosphere.
✨Ask Insightful Questions
Prepare thoughtful questions about the college's future plans, its approach to cultural diversity, and how they support international students. This not only shows your interest but also helps you gauge if the college is the right fit for you.
