Secondary School Head Teacher
Institution: International Maarif Schools of Lusaka, Zambia
Position Type: Full-Time Senior Leadership Position
Reports to: Head Principal
ABOUT INTERNATIONAL MAARIF SCHOOLS OF LUSAKA
International Maarif Schools of Lusaka is an elite, internationally-accredited educational institution managed by the prestigious Turkish Maarif Foundation. We are committed to delivering world-class education that combines global best practices with values-based learning, preparing our students to become critical thinkers, responsible global citizens, and leaders of tomorrow.
POSITION SUMMARY
International Maarif Schools of Lusaka seeks an exceptional and visionary Secondary School Head Teacher to provide strategic leadership and drive educational excellence across all secondary year groups. The successful candidate will be responsible for the overall strategic direction, management, and academic performance of the secondary school while maintaining the highest standards of integrity, professionalism, student welfare, and institutional governance.
This is a pivotal leadership role requiring a transformational educator with extensive senior management experience, deep commitment to academic excellence, and the ability to build and inspire a high-performing teaching staff.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES
Strategic Leadership and Vision
Provide inspirational leadership and establish a compelling vision for school excellence aligned with the Turkish Maarif Foundation’s educational values and philosophy
Develop and implement strategic plans that drive continuous improvement in academic achievement and institutional effectiveness
Champion innovation and best practice in secondary education
Ensure the school’s mission, vision, and values permeate all aspects of school life
Curriculum and Instructional Excellence
Ensure effective implementation and continuous development of the 2023 Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) across all subject areas and year groups
Oversee curriculum design, instructional quality standards, and assessment practices
Monitor teaching and learning effectiveness through rigorous quality assurance mechanisms
Lead initiatives to enhance student achievement, critical thinking, and skill development
Promote integration of international educational standards and best practices
Academic Performance and Student Outcomes
Monitor and analyze student achievement data to identify trends and implement evidence-based interventions
Set ambitious yet achievable academic targets and hold staff accountable for student progress
Foster a culture of academic rigor and continuous improvement
Ensure comprehensive support for student holistic development—academic, social, emotional, and character
Staff Leadership and Development
Lead the recruitment and selection of high-quality teaching and non-teaching staff
Establish and implement fair, transparent performance management systems
Provide mentoring, coaching, and professional development opportunities for staff
Foster a collaborative, supportive, and inclusive school culture that values diversity
Recognize and celebrate staff achievements and contributions
Financial and Resource Management
Manage school finances, budgets, and resource allocation with accountability, transparency, and fiscal responsibility
Ensure efficient and strategic deployment of resources to support educational objectives
Maintain accurate financial records and comply with audit requirements
Optimize operational efficiency while maintaining educational quality
Governance and Compliance
Maintain full compliance with Independent Schools Association of Zambia (ISAZ) standards and regulatory requirements
Ensure adherence to Zambian education policy, legislation, and best practice guidelines
Uphold institutional governance standards and reporting requirements
Facilitate accreditation processes and maintain international quality standards
Community and Stakeholder Engagement
Build and sustain strong partnerships with parents, families, and the local community
Communicate effectively with all stakeholders regarding school vision, progress, and achievements
Maintain strong liaison with the Turkish Maarif Foundation and international partners
Represent the school professionally in community, regional, and national forums
Promote the school’s international reputation and accreditation standing
Safety, Welfare, and Inclusion
Foster a safe, secure, inclusive, and nurturing learning environment for all students
Ensure child safeguarding policies and procedures are rigorously implemented and monitored
Promote equity, inclusion, and celebration of diversity across the school community
Maintain high standards of health, safety, and student well-being
REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE
Education and Credentials:
Bachelor’s degree in Education (essential)
Master’s degree in Education Administration, Educational Leadership, or related field (advantageous)
Current valid Teaching Council of Zambia (TCZ) Practicing License
Certified copies of academic and professional qualifications
Professional Experience:
Minimum 8–10 years of progressive experience in secondary school education
Minimum 3 years in a demonstrated senior leadership role (e.g., Head of Department, Deputy Head, or equivalent)
Proven track record of improving student academic achievement and pastoral care outcomes
Substantive experience implementing the 2023 CBC Curriculum framework
Documented expertise in ISAZ guidelines, independent school management, and quality assurance processes
Knowledge and Expertise:
Comprehensive knowledge of Zambian education policy, regulatory frameworks, and quality standards
Strong understanding of international educational standards and accreditation requirements
Expertise in financial management and strategic resource allocation
Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate, develop, and evaluate teaching staff
Advanced knowledge of contemporary secondary education practices and pedagogical approaches
Professional Attributes:
Visionary, strategic thinking with ability to articulate clear educational direction
Exemplary leadership presence and inspirational communication skills
Strong commitment to values-based education, character development, and student welfare
Demonstrated integrity, professionalism, and ethical decision-making
Exceptional interpersonal and stakeholder engagement abilities
Resilience, adaptability, and emotional intelligence in managing complex situations
DESIRABLE QUALITIES
Substantive experience in an international or values-driven educational setting
Familiarity with the Turkish Maarif Foundation’s educational philosophy and global network
Proven expertise in school accreditation, quality assurance, and institutional improvement initiatives
Knowledge of digital transformation and technology integration in secondary education
Background in multicultural, inclusive, and socially responsive educational leadership
Understanding of comparative educational systems and international best practices
Experience with strategic planning and organizational change management
WHAT WE OFFER
Highly competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications, experience, and market standards
Performance-based incentives and recognition programs
Professional development and international training opportunities through the Turkish Maarif Foundation network
Access to educational conferences, workshops, and leadership development programs
Supportive, collaborative, and intellectually stimulating work environment
Opportunity to lead and shape a premier, internationally-recognized educational institution
Exposure to global educational practices and international partnership networks
APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS
Qualified candidates are required to submit a comprehensive application package including:
Detailed Curriculum Vitae with contact information and employment history
Three (3) Professional References from previous employers or educational leaders (with contact details)
Cover Letter outlining your vision and approach to secondary school leadership
Certified Copies of academic qualifications, professional credentials, and teaching certificates
Evidence of CBC and ISAZ Compliance Experience (examples of curriculum implementation, quality assurance initiatives, or related documentation)
Current Valid Teaching Council of Zambia (TCZ) Practising License
All application materials should be compiled into a single PDF document for ease of processing.
Sharing is Caring! Click on the Icons Below and Share