Deputy Principal of Student Experience (Grades 6–12) / Deputy Principaless of 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 focused on the social, emotional, physical, and intellectual development of our students. Valuing diversity and a plurality of voices, we are committed to equipping our students with the intellect, skills, and character necessary to become compassionate individuals and independent thinkers.

The most significant impact on student learning comes from the quality of the teaching they experience—great teachers foster 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 ongoing professional growth are encouraged to apply.

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 consistent with the 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 to ensure that every student feels known, supported, and empowered within a cohesive 6–12 community. Grounded in cultural fluency and empathy, this role exemplifies and nurtures the ability to navigate diverse perspectives with sensitivity and respect. Furthermore, it champions a holistic approach to learning that balances academic challenges with well-being, personal passions, and community engagement—helping students cultivate purpose, confidence, and the capacity to create a positive impact within and beyond ZIS.

Key Functions

• Culture and Climate Leadership: Lead efforts to enhance 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 Grades 6–12, supporting Deputies and faculty in fair, developmental responses. Ensure clear documentation of accompanying school policies and practices to foster transparency and consistency.
• Service and Positive Impact: Create opportunities for students to make a positive difference through service-oriented and experiential learning, intertwining 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 with those managing co-curricular and experiential programs (e.g., BTC weeks, service, clubs, and trips) to ensure alignment with student-life goals, without taking on clerical or logistical management of events.
• Visibility and Presence: Model relational leadership through daily visibility in common spaces, assemblies, and student events, reinforcing shared values and community standards.

Required Skills and Qualifications

• Demonstrated expertise in promoting well-being and belonging within middle and high school contexts, with a proven ability to design systems that foster 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; capable of aligning programs, policies, and practices across the secondary school to ensure coherence and shared ownership.
• High level of cultural competency; demonstrates curiosity, empathy, and fluency in navigating diverse perspectives to enhance belonging within a global community.
• A relevant advanced degree (or in progress).

Application Process

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

Apply online using the form below. Only applications matching the job profile will be considered.

Job Requirements

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