LADY PRINCIPAL

The Wykeham Collegiate

is a leading independent girls’ school in Pietermaritzburg, offering a progressive, holistic education, based on Christian values. Applications are invited from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of:

Lady Principal

Reference: TWCLP

Starting 1 January 2027 (negotiable)

The school offers top quality education to girls from Grade RRR to Grade 12 and boarding from Grade 1 to Grade 12. TWC is a member of ISASA, subscribes to the ISASA values and codes of ethical practice and has recently been favourably evaluated by OISESA.

The Wykeham Collegiate promotes excellence in academic, sporting, and cultural spheres, and provides young women with a solid foundation of Christian values to prepare them for the challenges of the real world.

As the current Lady Principal is retiring, the Board invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Lady Principal of the school.

This position is a combination of two sets of responsibilities, namely Lady Principal of the School as a whole, and Head of the Senior School.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic Leadership: Develop and implement a compelling strategic vision for the school that aligns with its values and mission. Ensure the school's long-term sustainability and growth.
• Educational Excellence: Promote and uphold the highest standards of academic achievement, personal development, and well-being for all pupils. Encourage innovative teaching practices and continuous improvement.
• Operational Management: Oversee the day-to-day operations of the school, ensuring efficiency and effectiveness in all areas. Collaborate with the Head of Junior School, Bursar and HR Manager to ensure seamless operation across all divisions.
• Staff Leadership and Development: Lead, motivate, and manage a high-performing senior leadership team. Foster a culture of professional development, collaboration, and excellence among all staff members.
• Financial Oversight: Work closely with the Bursar to ensure robust financial management, including budgeting, financial planning, and resource allocation. Ensure the financial health and sustainability of the school.
• Community Engagement: Serve as the primary representative of the school to all stakeholders. Build and maintain strong relationships with pupils, parents, staff, alumni, and the wider community. Enhance the school's reputation and profile locally, nationally, and internationally.
• Governance: Work with the Board of Governors to ensure effective governance. Provide regular reports on school performance, strategic initiatives, and operational matters. Advise the Board on key issues and developments.
• Christian Ethos: Preserve and promote the Christian ethos of the school.

Qualifications and Experience

• An appropriate degree in Education with a SACE Certificate.
• Proven experience in a senior leadership role within an educational setting, preferably in an independent or girls' school.
• A strong track record of strategic planning and implementation.
• Demonstrated ability to lead and inspire a diverse team.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• A deep commitment to the education and development of girls.
• Strong financial acumen and experience in managing budgets and resources.

Personal Attributes

• Visionary and strategic thinker.
• Inspirational and dynamic leader.
• Strong moral and ethical compass.
• Excellent problem-solving abilities.
• Collaborative and inclusive approach.
• Resilient and adaptable.
• Christian faith and values.

Application Process

Please submit a comprehensive CV with contact information of three referees via email to  recruitment@twc.org.za (please ensure to include the reference TWCLP in the subject line of your email).

Closing Date: Friday 14 August 2026

Failure to meet the minimum requirement of the advertised post will result in applicants automatically disqualifying themselves from consideration. Submission of an application does not imply that an applicant will be called for an interview, and the school reserves the right not to fill the above post.

The Wykeham Collegiate, in line with POPIA (Protection of Personal Information Act) will attempt to ensure the confidentiality of all applicants for this role. All reasonable measures will be in place to protect personal information, but it will be used in the recruitment, selection, and reporting process. By submitting your application for this position, you are recognising and accepting this disclaimer.

EDUCATING WOMEN FOR THE REAL WORLD