Head of Secondary English

Location:

Jeddah, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

• 13,000 - 22,000 SAR per month tax free (dependent upon years of experience)
• Annual return flights
• Comprehensive medical insurance
• Visa sponsorship
• Compound accommodation

August 2026

This is an exceptional opportunity for an experienced and ambitious English educator to step into a senior leadership role at a prestigious British curriculum international school in Jeddah. The secondary school delivers the British curriculum to a diverse and high achieving student body, with students going on to top universities across the UK and beyond. Excellence in reading, writing, analysis, and communication is central to the school's academic identity, and the incoming Head of Department will play a pivotal role in shaping the quality, vision, and direction of English across the secondary phase.

This is a school where leadership is valued, ambition is encouraged, and the very best is expected, from students and staff alike.

Jeddah is one of Saudi Arabia's most cosmopolitan and culturally rich cities, situated on the stunning Red Sea coast and offering a lifestyle that consistently surprises those who experience it for the first time. As Saudi Arabia's commercial hub and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, Jeddah blends ancient history with modern ambition, offering world class dining, vibrant souks, beautiful corniche walks, and exceptional water sports and diving opportunities.

The city has a long established and welcoming expat community, making it an easy and enjoyable place to settle. Combined with a tax free salary and a generous benefits package, Jeddah represents an outstanding destination for educators looking to take the next step in their careers without compromising on quality of life.

• Relevant degree in English
• PGCE or equivalent teaching qualification
• Qualified Teacher Status (QTS)
• Extensive experience teaching English at secondary level within the British curriculum framework is essential
• A demonstrated track record of improving student outcomes and leading a high performing department

This role calls for a confident, visionary, and highly skilled English educator who is ready to lead at the highest level. You will bring extensive classroom experience, a deep subject knowledge, and a proven ability to inspire both students and colleagues to reach their full potential. As Head of Department, you will be responsible for the strategic leadership and day to day management of English across the secondary school - driving curriculum development, raising attainment, mentoring and supporting your team, and maintaining the highest standards of teaching and learning throughout.

You will be data literate and outcomes focused, with a track record of delivering measurable improvements in student results. Equally, you will be a collaborative and empathetic leader who understands the importance of building a cohesive, motivated, and professionally fulfilled department. Excellent communication skills, with students, parents, colleagues, and senior leadership, are essential, as is the ability to think strategically while remaining hands on in the classroom.

Experience in an international or multicultural setting is a strong advantage.

The safety and wellbeing of every student is the foremost priority in this role and across the wider school community. All applicants must be able to demonstrate a strong and genuine commitment to safeguarding and child protection, with a clear understanding of their professional responsibilities in this area, including at a leadership level. You will be expected to uphold and model professional boundaries at all times, respond swiftly and appropriately to any concerns, and actively foster a whole school culture of vigilance, safety, and care.

Familiarity with international child protection frameworks and experience within a safer recruitment environment will be viewed favourably. All successful candidates will be subject to comprehensive background and security checks prior to appointment.

chk Education is a leading boutique international education search firm, specialising in the placement of senior leaders, teachers, and middle management at premium international schools across the Middle East, Southeast Asia, and emerging markets. As a COBIS Supporting Associate, chk Education upholds the highest standards in international education and operates with integrity, transparency, and a genuine passion for connecting exceptional educators with outstanding schools worldwide.

Interested candidates should email: . If this role isn't quite right for you but you are looking to secure an international teaching position, please reach out to Emma with your preferences and she will be able to explore other opportunities with you.

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