HEAD OF LEARNING SUPPORT – PREPARATORY SCHOOL

St Dunstan’s College is an independent English-medium school in Rynfield, Benoni, founded in 1918. From its humble beginnings as an Anglican Parish Preparatory School, St Dunstan’s has grown into a leading independent institution that includes the original Preparatory School, a Pre-School and a College.

The College seeks to recruit an exceptional, compassionate and forward-thinking applicant to lead our Learning Support Department and drive our commitment to seeing each child thrive in the following position:

HEAD OF LEARNING SUPPORT – PREPARATORY SCHOOL

(Commencement date: January 2027 or by arrangement)

Role Overview

As Head of Learning Support, you will play a pivotal role in the strategic leadership and day-to-day delivery of learning support across the school. You will be responsible for identifying, assessing and supporting pupils with diverse learning needs.

Working closely with class teachers, subject specialists, parents and external professionals, you will ensure that every child receives the tailored support, accommodation and encouragement they need to flourish academically and socially.

Key Responsibilities
Strategic Leadership & Management

• Lead, develop and evaluate the school’s Learning Support strategy in line with the school’s vision and ethos.
• Line manage and mentor learning support staff, teaching assistants and 1:1 support assistants.
• Maintain an up-to-date Learning Support Register and monitor pupil progress systematically.
• Stay abreast of current research, best practices and legislative requirements.

Pupil Identification, Assessment & Support

• Conduct screening and informal diagnostic tests to identify learning strengths and areas for growth.
• Formulate, implement and review Student Support Plans in consultation with teachers and parents.
• Deliver targeted individual and small-group intervention sessions (literacy and executive functioning skills).
• Coordinate access arrangements for internal and external entrance exams/assessments where applicable.

Collaboration & Advisory

• Work collaboratively with classroom teachers to champion inclusive teaching strategies and differentiation within the mainstream classroom.
• Act as the primary point of contact for external professionals, including Educational Psychologists, Occupational Therapists and Speech & Language Therapists.
• Build warm, collaborative and transparent relationships with parents, offering guidance, updates and reassurance regarding their child’s progress.

Administration & Compliance

• Maintain detailed, confidential and accurate records of pupil assessments, reports and interventions.
• Manage the departmental budget and resources effectively.
• Oversee transitions for pupils receiving support into the school and on to senior schools.

  Minimum Requirements & Qualifications

• A recognised professional teaching qualification (Bachelor of Education or a relevant undergraduate degree plus PGCE) specialised in the Intermediate/Foundation phase.
• Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma in: Learner Support or Remedial Education or Educational Psychology (BEd Hons / BA Hons in Psychology) would be an advantage.
• Current and valid registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
• A minimum of 2 – 5 years of teaching experience, preferably within an independent preparatory school context.
• Experience in Time2Read, Ravo and IE would be advantageous.
• Up-to-date Police Clearance Certificate and Sexual Offenders Register clearance.
• A valid First Aid certificate (or willingness to obtain one).
• Advanced computer literacy with a proven ability to leverage digital platforms for teaching.

Desired Attributes

• Outstanding classroom practitioner with a passion for inclusive education.
• Strong leadership, communication and interpersonal skills to build trust with children, parents and colleagues.
• Excellent organisational skills and the ability to manage complex cases efficiently.
• Empathy, patience, warmth and a positive, solution-focused mindset.

Please include the following in your application:

• A maximum two page CV with at least three contactable references.
• A brief motivational cover letter.
• Copies of qualifications, SACE registration and ID.

Application Process:

Interested applicants are required to complete the online application form and upload their supporting documents (CV, covering letter, SACE certificate and qualifications) via the following link: https://forms.gle/6xRg2LfXajjHdLbo9 by Wednesday, 7 October 2026 (14:00)

Only suitably qualified and experienced candidates will be considered. An application will not in itself entitle the applicant to an interview. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The school reserves the right not to make this appointment.

In line with the Protection of Personal Information Act 4 of 2013 (POPIA), St Dunstan’s College will take all reasonable measures to ensure that personal information is protected.

Closing Date: Wednesday, 7 October 2026 (14:00)