Head of Secondary School - August 2026

Horizon International School

Reporting to the Principal, the successful candidate will provide inspirational leadership, strategic direction, and a deep sense of care across the Secondary School (Years 7 13). They will ensure the highest standards of teaching, learning, and pastoral care, fostering a culture of warmth, ambition, and inclusion where pupils flourish and staff are supported to excel.

This is a pivotal role within our Executive Leadership Team ideal for a dynamic, forward-thinking educational leader committed to excellence.

About Horizon International School

Since 2008, Horizon International School has evolved into a dynamic and inclusive community offering a world-class education based on the National Curriculum of England, from Early Years through to GCSE and A Levels.

We are rated Outstanding in all categories by British Schools Overseas (BSO), Very Good by KHDA, and are proud recipients of the Platinum Best School to Work award.

With over 1,500 students representing 92 nationalities, Horizon combines academic excellence with a nurturing, empowering environment that inspires students and educators alike to embrace the challenges of tomorrow.

About Cognita

Horizon International School is part of the Cognita Group, a global family of over 100+ schools across 16 countries, educating more than 85,000 students.

Cognita s shared purpose is to create an environment where everyone can Thrive in a rapidly evolving world. We celebrate the uniqueness of each student, nurturing their strengths and character while providing world-class opportunities and global connections.

Key Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

Lead the Secondary School with clarity, vision, and compassion, ensuring every student is known, supported, and inspired.

Collaborate with the Principal and ELT to shape and implement the school s strategic plan, embedding Horizon s values in all aspects of Senior School life.

Align the Secondary School with whole-school priorities, particularly in curriculum continuity and culture with the Primary School.

Use data, self-evaluation, and stakeholder feedback to identify and deliver impactful school improvement initiatives.

Oversee curriculum design and development across the Secondary School, ensuring breadth, balance, inclusivity, and challenge.

Lead, coach, and support a high-performing team of Deputy and Assistant Heads, Phase Leaders, and teachers with trust and integrity.

Candidate Requirements

Significant and successful leadership experience in a senior or secondary school setting

Proven record of driving school improvement and managing change

Deep understanding of the English National Curriculum

Inspirational communicator and leader with emotional intelligence and humility

Excellent organisational and administrative skills

Collaborative, empathetic, and relationship-oriented leadership style

Passionate about student learning, wellbeing, and character development

Skilled in curriculum design, innovation, and strategic planning

Confident in using data to inform practice and decision-making

Experienced in leading and developing high-performing teams

Desirable:

Experience working in international schools

Familiarity with KHDA or equivalent education authorities

Key Accountabilities

Member of the Executive Leadership Team (ELT) and Chair of the Secondary School ELT

Reports directly to the Principal

Responsible for safeguarding, operational management, and academic and pastoral standards in the Secondary School

Line manages Deputy Heads, Assistant Heads, and Phase Leaders

Represents the Senior School at governor meetings and whole-school forums

Remuneration & Benefits

Competitive salary

Annual flight allowance

Accommodation allowance

Comprehensive medical and healthcare benefits (subject to status)

Application Process

Please submit your current CV and a cover letter outlining your leadership philosophy and suitability for the role.

The school reserves the right to interview and appoint exceptional candidates prior to the official closing date. Early applications are strongly encouraged.

Safeguarding Statement

Cognita Schools is committed to safeguarding the welfare of children and young people and expects the same from its employees. All new staff will be subject to detailed and enhanced pre-employment clearance, including identity checks, criminal background checks for all countries lived in, qualification checks, employment checks to include an exploration of any gaps in employment, and satisfactory reference checks for all employment in the last 5 years