Academic Leader

Job Opportunity

This is an exceptional opportunity for a seasoned professional to assume a leadership role in our school's prestigious IB Diploma Programme. The Head of Programme will play a pivotal part in shaping the academic experience and driving excellence within the programme.

Key Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategic plans for the growth, improvement, and innovation of the IBDP, aligning it with the school's mission and goals.
• Promote the IB ethos and values throughout the school community, fostering a culture of global-mindedness and inclusivity.
• Collaborate with school leadership on whole-school planning and cross-programme alignment, ensuring seamless coordination and effective communication.

Authorization and Evaluation:

• Lead and manage the school's IB Diploma Programme authorization and re-authorization processes, ensuring full compliance with IB standards and practices.
• Coordinate the preparation of required documentation, evidence, and reports for the IB authorization/evaluation visits, maintaining accurate records and facilitating efficient decision-making.
• Act as the primary point of contact with the IB during authorization, evaluation, and ongoing programme development, providing expert guidance and support.

Programme Oversight and Compliance:

• Ensure full compliance with IBO regulations, standards, and practices, upholding the highest standards of academic integrity and quality assurance.
• Oversee the authorization and re-authorization processes in coordination with the IB and school leadership, monitoring progress and implementing corrective actions as necessary.
• Lead and manage the IB evaluation process, including preparation, implementation of recommendations, and ongoing monitoring, promoting continuous improvement and growth.

Curriculum and Academic Quality:

• Oversee the development and delivery of a rigorous and balanced IBDP curriculum, ensuring alignment with IB subject guides and standards, and promoting academic excellence.
• Monitor curriculum planning, assessment practices, and internal standardization across all subjects, identifying areas for improvement and implementing targeted interventions.
• Ensure effective implementation of the IB Core (Theory of Knowledge, Extended Essay, CAS), providing opportunities for students to develop essential skills and knowledge.

Staff Development and Performance:

• Provide leadership, mentoring, and professional development opportunities for IBDP staff, enhancing their skills and expertise, and supporting their growth and development.
• Ensure all teaching staff have appropriate IB training and certifications, maintaining high standards of professionalism and expertise.
• Conduct performance reviews and support instructional excellence, recognizing and rewarding outstanding contributions and achievements.

Student Support and Achievement:

• Monitor student progress, engagement, and well-being throughout the programme, providing timely support and interventions to ensure student success.
• Oversee academic advising and subject selection processes for IBDP students, guiding them towards informed choices and career pathways.
• Support students through challenges related to the academic rigour of the programme, offering individualized guidance and resources.

Communication and Community Engagement:

• Act as the primary point of contact for all matters related to the IBDP, providing clear and timely communication to students, parents, and staff.
• Communicate effectively with stakeholders about programme expectations, policies, and progress, building trust and rapport.
• Organize orientation sessions, information evenings, and promotional events for the IBDP, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Bachelor's degree in Education or subject-related field (Master's preferred).
• Minimum 5 years of experience in IB education, with at least 2 years in a leadership role.
• Proven experience with IBDP curriculum and assessment, demonstrating expertise and commitment to academic excellence.
• Experience managing IB authorization or re-authorization processes, with a track record of successful outcomes.
• Strong background in data-driven academic leadership and quality assurance, with a focus on continuous improvement.
• Familiarity with digital platforms such as ManageBac, IBIS, and MyIB, with the ability to leverage technology to enhance programme delivery.

Skills and Competencies:

• Strategic thinking with strong organizational and leadership capabilities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to build relationships and foster collaboration.
• Deep understanding of IB philosophy and global-minded education, with a passion for promoting cultural competence and international-mindedness.
• Ability to lead change, inspire teams, and support academic excellence, with a focus on student-centred learning and achievement.
• High levels of cultural competence and international-mindedness, with a commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion.

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