At a Glance
- Tasks: Lead a vibrant school community and shape the future of education.
- Company: St John’s International School, located on the stunning Jurassic Coast.
- Benefits: Competitive salary, pension, potential accommodation, and additional perks.
- Other info: Join a close-knit team dedicated to academic and personal growth.
- Why this job: Make a real impact in a supportive international environment where every child is valued.
- Qualifications: Proven leadership experience with a strong track record in education.
The predicted salary is between 47000 - 65000 £ per year.
Lead a School Where Every Child is Known and Valued
St John’s International School, Sidmouth, Devon
Start: November/December 2026
Set on the stunning Jurassic Coast, St John’s International School offers a rare opportunity to lead a close-knit, ambitious and genuinely international school community. We are seeking an inspiring and strategic leader to guide the next phase of the school’s development — someone who can balance academic excellence, pastoral care and commercial sustainability, while preserving the warmth and individuality that define St John’s.
This is a unique opportunity to:
- Shape the future of a thriving 2½–16 co‑educational school
- Lead a committed staff team and engaged community
- Drive growth within a supportive international group (IES)
- Champion a culture where pupils flourish academically and personally
We are looking for a leader with vision, presence and integrity, and a strong track record of impact at senior leadership level.
Salary: Competitive
Benefits: Pension, potential accommodation and additional benefits
Application Process: Candidates should send the following documents:
- CV – Maximum of 2 pages long
- A cover letter / letter of application of maximum 2 pages long
- A list of at least 3 professional referees – two must be from previous supervisors of which one must be your current employer / supervisor.
Apply: Closing date: 31 May 2026
Visits are warmly welcomed. St John’s International School is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children. All appointments are subject to enhanced DBS checks.
Head of School in Sidmouth employer: The Independent Schools Council
St John’s International School is an exceptional employer, offering a unique opportunity to lead a vibrant and diverse school community nestled on the picturesque Jurassic Coast. With a strong emphasis on academic excellence and personal development, the school fosters a supportive work culture that values collaboration and innovation, while providing competitive benefits including pension options and potential accommodation. As part of the IES group, employees are encouraged to grow professionally within a nurturing environment that prioritises the well-being of both staff and students.
Contact Details:
The Independent Schools Council Recruitment Team
StudySmarter Expert Advice🤫
We think this is how you could land Head of School in Sidmouth
✨Tip Number 1
Network like a pro! Reach out to your connections in the education sector, especially those who have insights into St John’s International School. A friendly chat can open doors and give you an edge.
✨Tip Number 2
Research the school thoroughly. Understand their values, mission, and recent developments. This will help you tailor your approach and show that you're genuinely interested in leading their community.
✨Tip Number 3
Prepare for interviews by practising common leadership questions. Think about how your vision aligns with the school's goals and be ready to share specific examples of your past successes.
✨Tip Number 4
Don’t forget to apply through our website! It’s the best way to ensure your application gets the attention it deserves. Plus, we love seeing candidates who take the initiative!
We think you need these skills to ace Head of School in Sidmouth
Some tips for your application 🫡
Craft a Compelling CV:Your CV is your first impression, so make it count! Keep it to a maximum of 2 pages and highlight your leadership experience, achievements, and how you've made an impact in previous roles. We want to see your journey and what makes you the perfect fit for St John’s.
Write a Personalised Cover Letter:Your cover letter should reflect your passion for education and your vision for the school. Use it to tell us why you’re excited about this opportunity and how you plan to lead St John’s into its next chapter. Remember, we love authenticity!
Choose Your Referees Wisely:When listing your referees, make sure at least two are from previous supervisors, with one being your current employer. This gives us a well-rounded view of your professional background and leadership style. A strong reference can really make a difference!
Apply Through Our Website:We encourage you to apply through our website for a smooth application process. It’s the best way to ensure your documents reach us directly and allows you to keep track of your application status. Don’t miss out on this fantastic opportunity!
How to prepare for a job interview at The Independent Schools Council
✨Know the School Inside Out
Before your interview, take the time to research St John’s International School thoroughly. Understand its values, mission, and the unique aspects of its community. This will not only help you tailor your responses but also show your genuine interest in leading a school where every child is known and valued.
✨Showcase Your Leadership Style
As a candidate for Head of School, it’s crucial to articulate your leadership philosophy. Prepare examples that demonstrate how you've successfully balanced academic excellence with pastoral care in previous roles. Highlight your strategic vision and how it aligns with the school's goals.
✨Engage with the Community
St John’s values a close-knit community, so be ready to discuss how you would engage with staff, students, and parents. Think about initiatives you could implement to foster collaboration and inclusivity, and be prepared to share your ideas during the interview.
✨Prepare Thoughtful Questions
Interviews are a two-way street, so come armed with insightful questions. Ask about the school's future plans, challenges they face, and how they envision the role of Head of School evolving. This shows your commitment to the position and helps you gauge if it's the right fit for you.
