DEPUTY RECTOR: PUPILS
Founded in 1896 and set in the KwaZulu-Natal Midlands, Michaelhouse is a leading Anglican Independent Senior Boarding School for boys from Grade 8 to Grade 12.
Michaelhouse invites applications for the position of Deputy Rector: Pupils. This is an opportunity for an exceptional educational leader to play a pivotal role in shaping the character, conduct and holistic development of boys within a school renowned for academic excellence, strong traditions and progressive thinking.
Commencement date: January 2027
THE ROLE
Reporting to the Rector and working in close partnership with the Deputy Rector: Pastoral, the successful candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership in the pastoral and disciplinary life of the school, while contributing meaningfully to the academic, co-curricular and cultural excellence of the institution
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:
- Leading the development, maintenance and communication of school policies, ensuring they remain current, clear and effectively implemented.
- Managing the day-to-day routines of the school as well as the school calendar.
- Overseeing discipline at the most serious level, ensuring that disciplinary matters are managed fairly, equitably and in strict accordance with policy and legal requirements.
- Working closely with the Rector and Deputy Rectors to promote exemplary standards of behaviour and conduct throughout the school.
- Serving as an active and engaged member of the Executive Committee, contributing to strategic leadership and whole-school decision-making.
- Overseeing certain co-curricular departments to ensure alignment, consistency of messaging, and the avoidance of clashes that could negatively impact boys’ participation or lead to overload.
- Remaining well informed about current trends and best practice in the pastoral care and development of boys.
- Providing innovative and modern leadership in the pastoral space, while demonstrating a deep respect for, and understanding of, the school’s traditions and ethos.
- Confidently modelling and promoting the values, culture and expectations of a leading boys’ school, with a clear focus on the holistic development of each boy.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
The successful candidate will:
- Be a suitably qualified and SACE registered teacher.
- Ideally have prior experience at Senior Leadership or Executive level within a school environment.
- Ideally have served as a Housemaster in a boys’ boarding house, with a proven track record in pastoral leadership.
- Possess sound knowledge of the legal requirements and best practice relating to disciplinary procedures in South African schools.
DUTIES WILL INCLUDE:
The ideal candidate will demonstrate:
- Outstanding pastoral instincts, with the ability to balance nurture, discipline and accountability effectively.
- The gravitas and presence to inspire confidence and earn the respect of boys, parents and colleagues.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, enabling the development of strong, purposeful working relationships.
- Strong planning, organisational and leadership skills.
- A collaborative leadership style and a commitment to teamwork.
- The highest levels of discretion, professionalism and confidentiality.
Michaelhouse offers a unique educational environment, combining academic rigour, rich traditions, a strong boarding culture and exceptional co-curricular opportunities. The school seeks leaders who are deeply aligned with its values and committed to shaping young men who will contribute meaningfully to society.
Accommodation will be provided on or near the Michaelhouse Estate to facilitate the successful fulfilment of duties and full involvement in the school programme.
To apply: Complete the online application form at: https://forms.gle/K1RzYbLShx67Bcwx5
In addition, email your motivation letter AND a detailed CV to careers@michaelhouse.org
Closing date for applications: 5 August 2026
Note: Please reference the job title in the subject of your email for ease of reference.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Submission of an application does not guarantee an interview. Michaelhouse reserves the right not to fill this position.
Michaelhouse is committed to transformation. In line with our Employment Equity Plan, preference may be given to candidates from designated groups.
POPIA Disclaimer: Michaelhouse is committed to protecting the confidentiality of all personal information. By applying for this position, you consent to your personal information being used for recruitment purposes related to this role and any future opportunities, in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act.
ISASA