OAKHILL SCHOOL, Knysna
Oakhill School, situated in Knysna is a co-educational independent South African IEB school, founded in 1992. Our holistic educational philosophy is embraced and underpinned by ‘the joy of learning’ in support of each child’s unique journey from ‘belonging to becoming’. The nurturing environment juxtaposes freedom and discipline across wellness, academic, cultural and sporting activities in Little Oaks, Prep School and College. Through this Oakhill strives to enable growth and thriving at the level of individuals and as a school, positively impacting the wider community within which the school is embedded.
Our strong emphasis on meaningful lived experience within the classroom and outside, and fully embracing the philosophy of diversity and inclusion equips students to think deeply and critically and engage with others and the environment with care and empathy in all phases of their schooling journey. Oakhill graduates are distinguished by the maturity and ease with which they embrace and celebrate cultural differences, the joy and pride they feel through the spirit of healthy competition and giving their best; critical imperatives for those now coming of age to thrive as adults.
Head of School
The Board of Oakhill School invites applications for the position of Head of School to build on the strong foundations of academic and cultural excellence. We seek a visionary, energetic, qualified and emotionally intelligent leader who understands the realities and complexities of children and education in the 21st century. The successful applicant should have strong interpersonal skills, an educational ethos embracing inclusiveness across multiple types of diversity, understand the nuances of leading a whole school team, embrace innovation and comfortably learn and lead resultant change with positivity.
As Oakhill prides itself on being an integral part of the local and regional community, we seek a leader who demonstrates a strong commitment to collaboration and teamwork, both within the school and broader Oakhill community to ensure that our strategic goals are met and our educational environment remains inclusive, innovative and supportive. The ability to foster open communication, build strong partnerships, and lead with transparency is essential for expanding the school’s engagement with the wider community, including building strong relationships with local organisations, alumni and other stakeholders, and promoting Oakhill’s values and achievements beyond the school.
With an excellent track record in education, strong leadership skills and a passion for holistic forward-thinking educational philosophies, candidates should demonstrate their authentic qualities to advance Oakhill’s strong reputation and proud ethos in conjunction with the dedicated Oakhill team.
Tel: +27 (0)44 382 6506 • http://www.oakhill.co.za
Don Jones and Paul Channon of the St Thomas Group have been retained to advise on this prestigious appointment and interested candidates should email their curriculum vitae with three contactable referees to donj@stthomas.co.za by no later than the 18 October 2024. In your application letter, please articulate your thoughts on what excites and motivates you about joining the school, your vision for how the school can continue to positively impact the community it serves, and how you will lead and incentivise staff to be aligned with the strategy, goals, values and identity of Oakhill School. Candidates may assume that their application has been unsuccessful if they have not been contacted by 20 October 2024.
Start date: By mutual agreement during 2025, with some flexibility based on candidates’ individual circumstances and the school’s needs.
Oakhill School reserves the right not to make an appointment. An application will not in itself entitle the applicant to an interview or appointment, and failure to meet the minimum requirements of the advertised post will result in applicants being automatically disqualified for consideration.
Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) Disclaimer: Oakhill School is committed to ensuring the confidentiality of personal information and all reasonable measures will be taken to protect the personal information of applicants. Your information will be used for the sole purpose of recruitment for this listed post only as well as for statutory purposes as applicable. By applying for this position and submitting your personal details and curriculum vitae to Oakhill School, you acknowledge this disclaimer. Oakhill School is an equal opportunities employer and is committed to employment equity. Appointments are made in line with the School’s Transformation strategies.