Deputy Principal, Student Experience (Grades 6–12) / Deputy Principaless, Student Experience (Grades 6–12)

ZIS Mission

We surface and inspire each learner's curiosity, critical thinking, and high expectations for their learning so that they positively impact their family, community, and the world.

About Zurich International School (ZIS)

Zurich International School (ZIS) is a vibrant learning community made up of students, faculty, staff, and parents. We provide a nurturing environment that fosters the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of our students. Valuing diversity and the plurality of voices, we are committed to ensuring our students develop the intellect, skills, and character necessary to become caring individuals as well as adaptable and independent thinkers.

The quality of teaching has the most significant impact on student learning—great teachers cultivate great learners. We are seeking a highly motivated, team-oriented educator who aligns with our mission and vision and is eager to contribute to the ongoing development of our program. Learner-centered candidates with a growth mindset and a commitment to continuous professional development are encouraged to apply online using the form below. For more information about our school and our philosophy, please visit: www.zis.ch.

Purpose and Scope

This role provides strategic and relational leadership for the overall student experience across Grades 6–12, fostering a culture of dignity, respect, and belonging in line with ZIS mission and values. The Deputy Principal for Student Experience collaborates closely with grade-band Deputies, counselors, the Director of Inclusion & Challenge, and the Director of Student Life, ensuring that every student feels known, supported, and empowered within a cohesive 6–12 community. Grounded in cultural fluency and empathy, this role nurtures the ability to navigate diverse perspectives with sensitivity and respect. It advocates for a holistic approach to learning that balances academic challenge with well-being, personal passions, and community engagement—helping students foster purpose, confidence, and the capacity to make a positive impact within and beyond ZIS.

Key Functions

• Culture and Climate Leadership: Strengthen a culture of respect and dignity through restorative practices, clear behavioral expectations, and proactive relationship-building.
• Student Life and Belonging: Oversee and align programs that shape the daily experiences of students—including advisory structures, the house system, and student leadership initiatives—ensuring coherence and meaningful engagement.
• Behavior and Restorative Systems: Coordinate a consistent, restorative approach to behavior and discipline across 6–12, supporting Deputies and faculty in fair, developmental responses and ensuring clear documentation of accompanying school policies and practices.
• Service and Positive Impact: Foster opportunities for students to make a positive difference through service-oriented and experiential learning, integrating these experiences into the broader culture of student life.
• Collaboration with Grade-Band Deputies: Partner to ensure consistent communication, shared expectations, and coordinated support systems across developmental stages.
• Beyond-the-Classroom Alignment: Collaborate to ensure alignment with student-life goals, particularly with those managing co-curricular and experiential programs (e.g., BTC weeks, service, clubs, and trips).
• Visibility and Presence: Model relational leadership through daily presence in common spaces, assemblies, and student events, reinforcing shared values and community standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in fostering well-being and belonging across middle and high school contexts, with a proven ability to design systems promoting dignity, respect, and inclusion.
• Deep understanding of research-based strategies to support adolescent development and social-emotional learning.
• Experience in leading restorative practices and behavior systems that balance accountability, empathy, and growth.
• Adaptive and resourceful, able to navigate complexity and ambiguity with creativity and composure while mobilizing people and resources to achieve meaningful outcomes.
• Strong skills in relational leadership and systems thinking, aligning programs, policies, and practices across secondary school to ensure coherence and shared ownership.
• High level of cultural competency; demonstrates curiosity, empathy, and fluency in navigating diverse perspectives to strengthen belonging in a global community.
• A relevant advanced degree (or in progress).

We will begin the interviewing process immediately and reserve the right to appoint a candidate ahead of the official deadline if a strong candidate is identified.

Job Requirements

• At least 5 years of relevant experience preferred.
• Master’s degree preferred.
• Citizenship, residency, or work visa required.

Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Apply online using the form below.