High School Principal – United Herzlia Schools
ABOUT THE ORGANISATION AND THE ROLE
United Herzlia Schools is a highly successful, independent school that serves the Jewish community of Cape Town. The aim of United Herzlia Schools is to provide the best possible Judaic, secular and cultural education, in a warm and nurturing environment, to produce pupils who are empowered, engaged, confident, courageous and resilient global citizens. Based on core Jewish values, they aim to enhance the potential for participation in both Jewish and wider society.
Due to the retirement of the current incumbent, they are now looking for an inspiring educational leader who is passionate about academic excellence, innovation and nurturing strong Jewish identity in a values-driven environment. Herzlia High School has 600 pupils from Grade 7 – 12.
MAIN DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES
- Provide strategic direction and day-to-day leadership of the High School
- Oversee the curriculum, ensuring its continuous development, effective implementation and alignment with overall educational objectives.
- Ensure effective school operations, including staffing, timetabling and resource management.
- Lead and support staff to deliver a high-quality, engaging and innovative programme.
- Ensure the delivery of a consistently high quality extra-curricular programme
- Collaborate closely with interdisciplinary teams to monitor and support the academic, social and emotional development of each pupil.
- Build and maintain strong relationships with parents, pupils and the broader school community.
- Ensure compliance with relevant regulatory requirements
- Work closely with senior leadership and governance structures on long-term planning and sustainability.
- Create a school culture of respect, dignity and inclusivity.
REQUIRED SKILLS & EXPERIENCE
1. Education and Experience
- A post-graduate degree in Education is essential; a Master’s degree or higher is advantageous.
- A minimum of 10-years’ experience in the education sector.
- Proven success in academic and organisational leadership within a school environment. Preference will be given to candidates with experience as a Deputy or Principal at High School level.
- Demonstrated understanding of contemporary educational trends and inclusive education practices.
2. Leadership and Interpersonal Skills
- A confident decision-maker who leads with integrity and professionalism.
- Excellent communicator; able to connect with pupils, staff and parents.
- Proven ability to build and maintain trusted relationships with stakeholders.
- Skilled in managing people and building teams.
- Resilient and capable of managing a demanding and multifaceted environment.
3. Operational and Administration Skills
- Highly organised, efficient and able to manage multiple priorities under pressure.
- Able to work both independently and collaboratively.
4. Personal and Community Fit
- A progressive educational philosophy that supports the holistic development of pupils.
- A passion for academic excellence and continuous improvement.
- Understanding of the Cape Town Jewish community (advantageous).
- Commitment to fostering a love of Jewish heritage, traditions and connection to Israel.
- Understanding of and a willingness to support the school’s values and ethos.
Interested?
Click on the APPLY NOW / DOWNLOAD APPLICATION button below
Closing date for applications: 30 April 2026
If you have not been contacted within 2 weeks of submitting your application, kindly consider your application to have been unsuccessful
Job Features
| Job Category | Education, Management |
| Location: | Highlands Estate, Cape Town |
| Reporting to: | Executive Director |
| Nature of contract: | Permanent, Full-time |
| Hours of work: | 45-hour week |
| Salary range: | Commensurate with experience |
| Closing date for applications: | 30 April 2026 |
| Start date: | January 2027 |
| Interested? | Click on the APPLY NOW / DOWNLOAD APPLICATION button above |