Head of Secondary

  • Inspired Education Group
  • Cambridge, Cambridgeshire
  • Feb 16, 2026
Full time Education

Job Description

Head of Secondary

Location: Vilamoura, PT, 8125

Date: 6 Feb 2026

Application closing date: Interviews will be ongoing

Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 121 premium private schools spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 95,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.

In 28 countries, Inspired schools are individually developed and anchored in the vibrant cultures of their respective locations. They collectively form an international family of schools that nurtures each student's academic and personal development in a progressive, dynamic, and innovative learning environment.

By joining our award-winning team of over 13,000 employees, you can work in state-of-the-art facilities alongside industry-renowned educators and leaders in some of the world's most desirable locations. We invest heavily in our team members who enjoy industry-leading professional development, exceptional career opportunities, and mobility across our group.

ROLE SUMMARY:

Vilamoura International School (CIV) is a leading educational institution in the south of Portugal, offering Pre-School, Primary, and Secondary Education through both national and international curricula, including Cambridge programmes.

Set within a unique natural environment and featuring an 18,500 m outdoor play area, CIV has, for over 40 years, developed an educational model that promotes early learning, inquiry-based education, and a values-driven approach grounded in democratic and humanistic principles.

CIV is dedicated to academic excellence and is seeking a Head of Secondary, starting in August for the next academic year. The ideal candidate will provide strategic and operational leadership across the Secondary School, ensure high-quality teaching and learning, mentor staff, and support the academic, social, and personal growth of all students. This role also includes a teaching component, delivering classes within the Secondary curriculum.

In addition to this position, you may also be interested in our in person Inspired Portugal Teacher Recruitment Event at King's College School, Cascais on Saturday 7th March 2026. This event will bring together headteachers and hiring managers from several Inspired schools across Portugal, offering you the chance to connect directly with them, learn more about our organisation, and explore career opportunities for the upcoming academic year. For more information and to register, please click here:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
  • Lead and manage the Secondary School, including curriculum planning, delivery, and assessment.
  • Teach classes, ensuring high-quality instruction and student engagement.
  • Support, mentor, and evaluate teaching staff to promote professional growth and best practices.
  • Oversee implementation of international curricula (Cambridge, IB) and ensure alignment with school standards.
  • Monitor and report on student progress, using data to improve learning outcomes.
  • Coordinate examinations and assessment schedules within the Secondary School.
  • Foster a positive, inclusive, and academically stimulating environment.
  • Work with leadership, parents, and external partners to promote the school's vision and values.
  • Manage daily operations, including timetabling, staff deployment, and resources.
  • Participate in leadership meetings, strategic planning, and professional development initiatives.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:
  • A degree in Education, Leadership, or a related field (Master's desirable).
  • Proven leadership experience in a Secondary School, preferably in an international or IB/Cambridge context.
  • Strong knowledge of international curricula and assessment systems.
  • Excellent communication, organisation, and interpersonal skills.
  • A student-centred approach, committed to academic, personal, and social development.
  • Ability to lead, inspire, and motivate a diverse team of educators while maintaining high standards.
  • Strong problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and professional integrity.
  • Commitment to fostering international-mindedness, intercultural understanding, and values-driven education.
SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT

Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.