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Founding Principal

Summit Recruitment & Search
Western Kenya
On-site

About this role

Founding Principal

Key Responsibilities

  • Lead the establishment and launch of the school, developing its academic culture, systems, policies, standards and traditions in partnership with the Board.

  • Deliver an academically rigorous and highly selective education programme, with particular emphasis on STEM, research, writing, critical thinking and preparation for admission to leading universities in Kenya and internationally.

  • Lead student outreach, identification and recruitment, building strong relationships with neighboring junior secondary schools and communities to identify academically gifted students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.

  • Recruit, mentor and manage outstanding teachers and school leaders, building a high-performing faculty committed to academic excellence, student development and the school’s mission.

  • Oversee student welfare, safeguarding, pastoral care and residential life, ensuring that students are supported academically, socially and personally throughout their time at the school.

  • Develop strong relationships with parents, local communities and other stakeholders, ensuring that community engagement and service are central to the culture and long-term success of the institution.

  • Provide strategic oversight of school operations, finances, compliance and campus development, including the integration of agriculture, food production and conservation initiatives across the school’s 41-acre campus.

  • Build strategic partnerships with universities, educational institutions, research organisations and other stakeholders, creating pathways for students and strengthening the school’s academic, leadership and community impact.

  • Key Qualifications

  • First-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline from a recognized university. A Master’s degree or PhD in STEM Education is an added advantage.

  • 5+ years of leadership experience within a high-performing secondary school or similarly rigorous academic institution.

  • Demonstrated track record of achieving outstanding academic outcomes, particularly in STEM subjects, and preparing high-achieving students for competitive university admission.

  • Proven experience in student recruitment, academic outreach and talent identification, with the ability to engage schools and communities to identify academically gifted students.

  • Strong experience in curriculum leadership, teacher development, school operations, safeguarding and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to establish effective systems from the ground up.

  • Exceptional leadership, strategic planning and communication skills, with high integrity and a strong commitment to educational access, community development, agriculture, and conservation.

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