Principal, Education Administration

Job Title: Principal
Reports to: Managing Director
Location: Folkestone, Kent
Contract Type: Permanent, Full Time

Start Date: September 2026 or January 2027
Salary: Competitive

Dukes Education (Colleges) seeks a dynamic Headteacher for Earlscliffe, an international boarding college (Years 11-13) in Folkestone, Kent to start ideally in September 2026.

Earlscliffe has established a strong reputation in a short period of time and is known for its warm, family atmosphere, small class sizes and a highly personalised approach to learning. It follows an IGCSE/GCSE curriculum in Year 11 (an accelerated, reduced three term course) and A-levels in Years 12-13. We also offer diploma and Foundation courses in Year 13. The college is very much a modern, international institution in a British setting.

We are looking for a Head who is both strategic and empathetic — someone who leads by example, listens attentively and communicates with clarity and integrity. We are looking for an experienced and successful senior leader who is willing to give a long-term commitment to Earlscliffe. The successful candidate will work closely with a supportive governing body, deepening collaborative ties within Dukes Education while ensuring the colleges spirit and values remain central to its identity.

They should be comfortable working within a wider international context.

• Have a track record of senior leadership in a UK school or British international school delivering an IGCSE/A-level programme
• Show evidence of educational thought leadership
• Possess experience of managing international students through the UCAS process
• Show evidence of working successfully with senior colleagues in delivering measurable outcomes
• Have highly developed interpersonal skills and can demonstrate cultural awareness and empathy in dealings with students, parents and staff
• Possess experience in strategic planning
• Possess excellent financial management skills with a track record of meeting targets
• Have a track record of working successfully with a governing body and external stakeholders
• Have an experience of dealing with international agents
• Experience of dealing with inspection compliance

To apply for this position please email your application to Lauren Huntley laur

The Final date to receive applications is 30 January 2026

Please visit both the Dukes Education and Earlscliffe websites for more information on the college and the wider organisation:

Dukes Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff to share this commitment. All successful applicants will be subject to an enhanced DBS check.