We are looking for a Head of Prep School / Primary School Principal for a bilingual school in Chengdu. This is a full-time position available from the upcoming academic year in Fall 2026.
About The School
Located in Chengdu's Xinjin district, this international school offers a British-style education designed for Chinese students, combining academic rigor with character development and global awareness. With small class sizes and English as the main language of instruction, students benefit from a personalized and bilingual learning environment. The modern campus is equipped with state-of-the-art facilities and a wide range of co-curricular programs that support holistic growth. The school is part of a well-established education group with campuses in the UK and across the world, providing students with access to a global network and international learning opportunities.
About The Role
The Head of Prep School (HoP) sits on the School Management Team and serves as the senior educational leader for Years/Grades 1-6. The HoP oversees day-to-day operations, leads all aspects of curriculum design and delivery, and works closely with the Deputy Head and Heads of Department to ensure both the international and Chinese curricula are implemented effectively. In partnership with the Heads of Pre-Prep and Lower Seniors, the HoP secures continuity and planned progression across phases, with a strong focus on pupil wellbeing. Central to the role is the supervision, coaching and support of teachers and educational assistants, who together are responsible for high-quality learning and pastoral care in line with school policies.
- Lead the Prep/Primary School academically, pastorally and operationally; set vision, goals and schedules
- Drive enrolment and retention: interview applicants, run open days, analyse yearly retention/growth
- Ensure safeguarding and staff conduct policies are understood and followed; model school values
- Oversee curriculum (international + Chinese), assessment, and effective use of learning technologies
- Coordinate support for EAL/SEND with the learning enhancement team; monitor pupil progress with up-to-date data
- Lead staff development: coaching, appraisal, CPD; induct new staff and support recruitment
- Promote positive behaviour, routines and wellbeing; ensure pupils feel happy, valued and motivated
- Partner with boarding leads to ensure safe, compliant Prep boarding operations
- Manage budgets, resources and records; represent the Prep School on the senior leadership team
- Build strong parent and community engagement; maintain clear communications and oversee the weekly newsletter
Requirements
- Bachelor's degree or above in a relevant university major
- At least 3 years' experience in the same role/management
- Holding of QTS, and experience in bilingual/international schools
- Strong knowledge of primary curricula EYFS/KS1/KS2
- Experience supporting or leading a primary team with a strong commitment to student welfare and staff growth is preferred
Benefits
Salary and benefits
- Competitive monthly salary commensurate with experience and qualifications
- Monthly housing allowance of 3,500 RMB
- Air-ticket allowance of 11,000 RMB
- Public holidays
- Summer and Winter holidays
- Public holidays
- Medical health insurance