Top bilingual school in China
High School Deputy Principal (Academic)
Location: Shanghai, China
Start Date: August 2026 or 2027
School Curriculum: Bilingual, Chinese National Curriculum leading to the IBDP
The School
Founded in 2007, this school has become one of China’s leading bilingual and international schools. In four of the last five years the school has been ranked as the top bilingual school in China by the Hurun report and in 2023 Forbes ranked the school as the top international school in China.
The school has just over 1600 students spread over Primary (Y1-5), Middle (Y6-9) and High School (Y10-12) campuses. The school offers a unique Y1-12 educational programme that integrates the Chinese National Curriculum with international curricula which culminates with the IB Diploma Programme. The vast majority of students go on to attend world leading universities in the US, UK and Canada. The school is passionately committed to holistic education ensuring that they are nurturing the emotional, social, physical and intellectual aspects of each and every child.
The Primary School of some 600 students is located in Shanghai’s city centre whilst the Middle School of some 450 students is located in Hongqiao and includes a stunning new state of the art building whilst the High School provides boarding for most of its 550 students in the attractive surroundings of Shanghai’s Songjiang district.
Life in Shanghai
Shanghai offers a vibrant mix of modern energy and rich cultural texture. The city’s skyline, buzzing streets, and efficient metro system make everyday life fast-paced yet convenient. Neighborhoods range from quiet, tree-lined lanes to lively shopping districts, giving residents plenty of variety in how they spend their time. Food is a highlight, with everything from traditional street snacks to world-class international dining. While the crowds and constant motion can be overwhelming at first, many people find that Shanghai’s blend of opportunity, creativity, and global openness creates an exciting and rewarding place to call home.
Role and Responsibilities
The Deputy Principal (Academic) is responsible for the day-to-day running of the High School and for all curriculum and academic matters. This role serves as the direct line manager of the Director of IB and shares the line management of the Heads of Department with other members of the Campus Leadership Team.
The key responsibilities for the Deputy Principal (Academic) are:
Strategic Leadership
– To contribute as a key member of the Campus Leadership Team to the future strategy and development of the school;
– To work with counterparts at the Primary School and Middle School on cross-school initiatives, alignment and integration;
Educational Excellence
– To work with the Principal and the Director of Teaching and Learning to promote excellence in teaching throughout the High School;
Operational Management
– To work with the High School Principal to ensure the efficient and effective day-to-day running of the school;
– To lead the work of the Academic Administration Office (AAO) including having oversight and reviewing the delivery of the academic curriculum including, but not limited to: Timetable, Internal and External Examinations, cover requirements, Assessment and Reporting.
– Oversight of academic monitoring and development of students including the use of relevant baseline assessment data to ensure that students are making excellent progress throughout the High School.
– To liaise closely with members of the CLT and other key stakeholders with regards to key dates, events and ongoing operational strategy throughout the school year.
– To ensure that the School’s policies and procedures are up-to-date and compliant both with Chinese Government requirements and with IB and CIS/WASC accreditation criteria;
– To have oversight of curriculum development and to ensure consistency and coherency with what is taught at Middle School;
– To be responsible for the budgeting and financial management of academic departments in order to ensure a sound financial basis for the school.
External Representation
– To work with the Principal to ensure that the School’s approach and practice is well articulated to parents and that any issues and concerns raised are dealt with swiftly and effectively;
– To work with the Principal and the School’s marketing team to increase the visibility and recognition of YK Pao High School both within China and internationally;
– To work with the Principal and the School’s Admissions team to attract the right students and to ensure that selection of students is based on fair and effective practices;
REQUIRED CREDENTIALS & SKILLS
– A university degree with preferably an advanced degree and/or certification in educational leadership.
– Educational leadership experience preferably in a bi-cultural environment.
– Understanding of best educational practices from around the world;
– A track record of successful leadership in either an academic or pastoral role;
– The ability to motivate and inspire both colleagues and students;
– Proven experience of leading and developing teams with a clear commitment to the continuing professional development of all colleagues.
– An ability to identify areas of improvement in school operations and a solution-oriented mindset;
– The intellectual acuity needed to contribute significantly to educational debate within the school;
– Natural leadership qualities, with a capacity to initiate and manage change with flair and creativity.
– Strong interpersonal and organizational skills:
– A collegiate working style, with an inclusive and empowering approach to management;
– A commitment to principles of sound management including development of staff, establishment, and communication of clear standards and expectations, effective delegation, performance monitoring and management, the building of trust;
– Administrative efficiency and the ability to prioritize.
– A personal style combining authority, credibility, presence and a passionate commitment to excellence and all-round education;
– Appropriate academic credentials and an impressive record as a teacher with a love of teaching and an interest in the development of young people;
– Exceptional communication and relationship-building skills, allied with the ability to listen and influence others;
– A strong commitment to upholding high standards;
– Personal strength of character with a commitment to transparency, honesty, and fairness.
Benefits