Founding Academic Head ​/ Phase Leader (High School

Founding Academic Head / Phase Leader (High School) Build a School. Shape a Legacy.

Forest Edge Schools is an affordable, values-based private school in Knysna, founded on the belief that exceptional education is built through strong relationships, academic excellence, Christian values and a deep connection with nature.

Our High School is in its founding phase. We saw Grade 8 launching in January this year with one grade to be added annually as we grow into a complete College. Our first matriculating class will write their IEB examinations in 2030.

This is a rare opportunity to help establish the culture, traditions, academic standards and character of a school from its earliest years.

We are not looking for someone to manage an established institution.

We are looking for someone who is inspired by the opportunity to build one.

• Forest Edge is intentionally an affordable independent school, committed to making quality education accessible to more families.
• We operate with careful financial stewardship, ensuring every investment directly benefits our students and educational mission.
• Our growth will be deliberate and sustainable, adding one grade each year as the College develops.
• Success will be measured not only by enrolment numbers, but by the strength of our culture, the quality of our teaching and the character of our graduates.

• Build rather than inherit.
• Lead rather than administer.
• Mentor teachers and inspire students.
• Become part of the Knysna community.
• Leave a lasting educational legacy.

This is not the right role for someone seeking the systems, scale and resources of a large, established school. It is the right role for an educator who finds fulfillment in building a school, nurturing its culture and seeing each year’s progress become part of a lasting legacy.

• A recognised BEd qualification and/or PGCE is required; a postgraduate qualification in Education will be advantageous.
• Current registration with the South African Council for Educators (SACE).
• At least five years of experience in a senior leadership or management role within a high school setting.
• Demonstrated success in academic leadership, curriculum oversight, and driving educational excellence.
• Exceptional leadership, organisational, and people-management capabilities.
• Strong financial acumen and administrative management skills.
• Excellent communication skills with the ability to build and maintain positive stakeholder relationships.
• A high degree of integrity, professionalism, and emotional maturity.
• Thorough understanding of the South African education landscape, including curriculum requirements and best practices.
• A valid clear criminal record and willingness to undergo relevant background checks.

• A covering letter
• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae with a minimum of two references
• A short (max 2 minutes) introductory video explaining why you believe you are the right person for the position
• Current SACE certificate

31 August 2026

January 2027

If you have not been contacted by 31 August 2026, please consider your application unsuccessful. This may be because your application did not meet the requirements of the role, you were not selected for the next stage of the recruitment process, or the School has decided not to proceed with the appointment.

Forest Edge Schools reserves the right to amend, withdraw, or not fill this position at its sole discretion. The submission of an application does not create any entitlement to an interview or appointment. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

In accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), Forest Edge Schools is committed to safeguarding the confidentiality of all applicants. Reasonable measures will be implemented to protect personal information collected and processed during the recruitment, selection, and reporting process. By submitting your application, you acknowledge and consent to the processing of your personal information for recruitment purposes in line with POPIA.