Cambridge Cluster Head

Role Overview

The Cluster Head will provide strategic leadership for the designated Cambridge Cluster, working closely with campus heads, senior leaders, subject and pastoral teams to secure high standards of academic achievement, curriculum development and professional practice. The post holder will champion the Cambridge ethos, drive pedagogical innovation, ensure rigorous assessment and quality assurance, and foster a collaborative, culturally responsive community that supports staff and students to thrive.

Key Responsibilities

• Leadership: Lead the development and implementation of a coherent Cambridge strategy across the cluster, aligning intent, implementation and impact with whole‑school priorities and regulatory requirements.

• Teaching & Learning: Promote exemplary pedagogical practice, evidence‑informed approaches and differentiation to meet the needs of diverse learners; lead classroom observation, coaching and professional learning cycles.

• Quality Assurance: Implement robust QA systems including data analysis, internal moderation, external examination preparation and inspection readiness to drive continuous improvement across the cluster.

• Staff Leadership & Development: Line manage campus grade and curriculum leaders and key staff; design and deliver targeted professional development, mentoring and career pathways to build capacity within and between campuses.

• Operational Management: Coordinate academic resource allocation and procurement to ensure effective delivery of Cambridge programmes; advise on budgetary priorities related to curriculum provision.

• Student Experience & Welfare: Foster a student‑centred culture that promotes wellbeing, engagement and academic resilience; ensure safeguarding and student support systems are consistently applied.

• Stakeholder Engagement: Build strong partnerships with parents, local and international Cambridge authorities, external partners and the wider school community to communicate curriculum intent and celebrate achievement.

• Innovation & Inclusion: Promote inclusive practices, digital‑enhanced learning and cross‑campus initiatives that enrich the curriculum and prepare students for global citizenship.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Leadership Experience: Significant leadership experience within international/bi-lingual schools, with proven success leading multi‑site or multi‑campus programmes and driving school improvement.

• Cambridge Expertise: Deep understanding of Cambridge programmes and assessment practices (Primary through to A-Level), including moderation and examination processes.

• Track Record of Impact: Demonstrable evidence of raising standards, improving outcomes and developing staff through effective coaching, professional learning and data‑driven strategies.

• Operational Acumen: Skilled in resource planning, budgetary oversight and managing operational aspects of curriculum delivery across multiple sites.

• Communication & Cultural Sensitivity: Excellent interpersonal and written English; comfortable engaging with diverse stakeholders and leading a multicultural team.

• Personal Attributes: Strategic thinker, collaborative leader, resilient, adaptable and committed to the values of inclusion, safeguarding and professional integrity.

Personal Qualities and Professional Commitment

• Student‑Centred: A commitment to nurturing curious, confident and well‑rounded learners.

• Cultural Awareness: Respectful of diversity and able to lead effectively within an international school community.

• Integrity & Professionalism: High standards of ethical conduct, accountability and reliable leadership.

• Safeguarding Commitment: Proactive in promoting the welfare and safety of all students in line with school policy and statutory guidance.

Essential Criteria

• Masters of Educational Leadership or equivalent, or UK Qualified Teacher Status or equivalent and a degree in a relevant discipline along with a postgraduate leadership qualification.

• Proven leadership experience in a Cambridge or comparable international curriculum setting, with evidence of measurable impact on student outcomes.

• Experience of leading staff development and quality assurance across multiple teams or sites.

• Willingness and ability to relocate for an expatriate leadership post in Vietnam, with start in Summer 2026; readiness to engage with visa and relocation processes with support from VAS.

Please note: Applications will only be considered from candidates who meet the essential criteria outlined above.

Remuneration and Benefits

• Competitive expatriate leadership salary, commensurate with experience and qualifications.

• Generous housing allowance or school‑provided accommodation.

• Comprehensive relocation package and settling‑in support for international recruits.

• International health insurance and access to wellbeing services.

• Tuition fee concessions for dependent children and support with school admissions.

• Annual leave entitlement and contract completion incentives where applicable.

• Dedicated professional learning budget and time for leadership development and cluster initiatives.

How to Apply

Apply exclusively via the WhatSchool platform.

Safeguarding Commitment

Vietnam Australia International School is dedicated to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all children and young people in our care. We believe every student has the right to learn and grow in a safe, supportive, and nurturing environment. All staff members are expected to share and uphold this commitment, ensuring that the well-being and safety of our students remain our highest priority.

Diversity & Inclusion Statement

Vietnam Australia International School is committed to fostering a diverse, inclusive, and respectful community. We welcome and value individuals from all backgrounds, cultures, abilities, and perspectives. Our goal is to cultivate an environment where diversity is celebrated, and every member of our community feels respected, included, and empowered to reach their full potential.