Diplomas Division Leader and IB Diploma Programme (DP) Coordinator

The International School of Helsinki (ISH) is an international, non-profit school serving the international community of Helsinki. We offer education for students from ages 4 to 18. We are a growing community of 100 staff members and nearly 500 students. 

The school is seeking a

Diplomas Division Leader and IB Diploma Programme (DP) Coordinator for Grades 11-12

Are you an innovator, change-maker, and visionary educator? 

The International School of Helsinki seeks a Diplomas Division Leader and IB Coordinator to lead our Diplomas Programmes (Grades 11-12), committed to fostering inclusive and supportive learning environments that empower all students to achieve their full potential. We want to hear from you if you are passionate about guiding students and staff through meaningful, educational, and innovative journeys! 

Key Responsibilities Include:

• Upper School Leadership (Grades 11-12): Serve as the primary leader for the Upper School, overseeing Grades 11-12 in all facets of academic and student life. This includes guiding curriculum planning, student progression, pastoral care, and co-curricular activities to foster a cohesive, supportive, and enriching learning environment. Collaborate with faculty, students, and families to nurture a positive school culture, support personal growth, and ensure students are well-prepared for their post-secondary pathways.

• IB Programme Leadership: Lead as the IB Coordinator, overseeing all aspects of the IB Diploma Programme to uphold the highest standards of excellence and alignment with the IB philosophy. Stay informed on IB developments, ensuring that the programme evolves in response to current best practices.

• Programme Innovation: Drive innovation in curriculum design, creating challenging and engaging programmes that meet diverse learning needs, foster multiple pathways to success, and prepare students for higher education and career aspirations.

• Leadership: Apply Strategic, Relational, and Pedagogical Intelligence to lead effectively. Communicate clearly and consistently with students, parents, and staff, and navigate conflicts with professionalism and empathy.

• Learning Leadership Team Collaboration: Actively engage with the Learning Leadership Team (LLT) to strengthen partnerships within the school community and enhance the LLT’s capacity for meaningful collaboration with all school stakeholders.

• Academic Transition Support: Provide guidance and support to students during key educational transitions, helping them build confidence and equipping them for success in the Diploma Programme and beyond.

• Faculty Inspiration and Development: Inspire and support a diverse faculty, guiding them in implementing effective teaching and assessment practices that align with IB standards and ISH’s core values.

• Data-Driven Decision-Making: Establish and oversee a data management system to track student progress, support evidence-based decision-making, and promote individualised student growth.

• Assessment Oversight: Lead student assessments, including IB exams and Extended Essay supervision, ensuring students receive targeted support and resources necessary to excel.

• High School Diploma Programme Development: Further develop the High School Diploma Programme, transforming it into an innovative, challenging pathway that expands students' higher education and career opportunities.

• Collaboration with the Wellbeing Team: Partner with the Wellbeing Team to ensure comprehensive social and emotional support for students, particularly during critical academic transitions, fostering a supportive and inclusive environment.

Qualifications: 

• Minimum 10 years of teaching and/or leadership experience. IB Diploma Programme teaching experience is essential. 

• Strong leadership skills, including experience managing a complex team and navigating conflict effectively. 

• Proven ability to manage data effectively and use it to drive improvement. 

• Visionary thinking with a track record of motivating teams and effective communication. 

Child Protection & Safeguarding: ISH is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. The successful candidate must undergo a background check, including a police clearance and verification of references, prior to the appointment. 

How to apply:

Please submit to employment@ishelsinki.fi the following:

• A letter of application that explains why you want to join ISH in this exciting new venture 

• Your current CV

• An infographic that illustrates how innovation is possible within the IB to ensure effective transitions, meaningful pathways, and informed learning. Candidates will be required to present an oral recorded explanation of the infographic. 

Successful candidates called for an interview will receive more details of the job description. A review of qualified candidates will begin immediately.

Application Details: 

Application Deadline: November 20, 2024. 

Interviews: Week commencing November 27, 2024. 

Starting Date: August 2025. 

For all positions, a criminal record check as required in § 3 Law of working with children, must be presented by the applicant chosen for the position.

Statement of Anti-Discrimination:

At the International School of Helsinki we pursue policies which ensure the equal treatment of all, eschewing discrimination on the basis of gender, gender presentation, ethnic background, nationality, skin colour, age, physical abilities, sexual orientation and religious or political views.