Head of Secondary - Shanghai, China - August 2026

Country:
China
Region:
School -North and East Asia
Curriculum:
Bilingual, United Kingdom
Level:
Secondary/ Middle(12-15), Secondary/High(16-18)
Start Date:
01 August 2026
Initial Contract Length:
2 year, renewable
Curriculum Experience Required:
Yes - not flexible
Head of Secondary – Exciting International Leadership Role Shanghai, China. Start - August 2026

Are you ready to lead, inspire, and shape the future of a dynamic secondary school? We are seeking an outstanding Head of Secondary to join a thriving international school community in China. This is a unique opportunity to bring vision, leadership, and academic excellence to a diverse and ambitious student body. Working closely with senior leadership, you will play a pivotal role in driving standards, shaping curriculum, and empowering teachers to deliver world-class learning experiences.

The Role
As Head of Secondary, you will:
• Lead all aspects of the secondary academic programme, including curriculum development, electives, reporting, exams, and quality assurance.
• Line-manage Heads of Department, ensuring high standards of planning, delivery, and assessment.
• Champion professional growth, organising CPD, observations, and academic action plans.
• Work collaboratively with colleagues across the leadership team to deliver a holistic and inspiring education.
• Build strong relationships with students and parents, fostering an inclusive and supportive community.
• Ensure students thrive academically and personally, achieving success in iGCSE and A Level pathways (or equivalent).

The Person
We are looking for a strategic and inspiring leader who can:
• Demonstrate resilience, integrity, empathy, and cross-cultural awareness.
• Motivate and empower teams while holding high expectations for academic excellence.
• Think ahead, innovate, and adapt to evolving educational landscapes.
• Communicate effectively with staff, students, and parents to build trust and engagement.
• Model a commitment to safeguarding and wellbeing for all students.

Why Join?
• Work within a forward-thinking international school environment that values collaboration and innovation.
• Shape and refine a growing Secondary division, influencing its culture, curriculum, and community impact.
• Be part of a passionate leadership team that is deeply committed to student success and staff development.
• Enjoy the opportunity to live and work in one of Asia’s most exciting, fast-developing regions.

This is more than a leadership post, it’s a chance to build something exceptional, leave a lasting legacy, and make a profound difference in young people’s lives.
📌 Interested candidates: Please apply with a full CV and covering letter by emailing leadership@edvectus.com Early applications are strongly encouraged.
Number Of Students:
700
Student Make Up:
Mostly Chinese
Regional Info:
Living and working in Shanghai Lingang offers a refreshing balance between modern development and a more relaxed pace of life. The area is spacious and thoughtfully planned, with wide streets, clean air, and access to nature, especially around Dishui Lake and the nearby coastline. It's a quieter, greener alternative to the hustle of downtown Shanghai. Lingang is rapidly becoming a hub for innovation and high-tech industries, including new energy, intelligent manufacturing, and biomedicine. With strong government support, the area is designed to attract international talent and investment, making it an exciting place for professionals looking to grow their careers in emerging industries. The policies for foreign workers are generally favorable, and there's an increasing presence of international companies and research institutions. Housing in Lingang tends to be more modern and spacious, with newer residential complexes and generally lower rent compared to central districts. The infrastructure is up-to-date, with new schools, hospitals, and shopping centers continuing to open. For families and individuals alike, it offers a peaceful, safe environment with plenty of green space. The lifestyle here is calm but not isolated, more and more cafes, restaurants, and community events are appearing as the area develops. It's a good fit if you prefer a slower pace, modern conveniences, and proximity to nature, all within reach of the broader Shanghai area when needed. If you're looking for a place that combines future-oriented career opportunities with a high quality of life, Lingang is a strong option.
Tax Rate:
Taxes typically 16-25%
Housing:
2 bedroom, 3 bedroom
Benefits:
Flights - allowance, Flights- every 2 years, Flights -yearly, Gratuity or end of service bonus, Housing - provided, Medical or Health insurance, Tuition discount for dependants
Suited To:
Activity-typical land sporting types, Climate - cooler, Climate -moderate, Dependent children - more suitable, Holiday destination - yes typical, Infrastructure - Highly developed, Urban, Westernised - highly, Women - not restrictive
Minimum Years Experience:
8.0
Curriculum Experience Required:
Yes - not flexible
Will Accept Newly Qualified Teachers:
N
Visa Restriction:
2 years post qualification teaching exp requd, Younger than 60
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