Primary School Principal

We are looking for a Primary School Principal for a K12 bilingual School based in Beijing. This is a full-time position starting from the upcoming fall academic year in 2026.

About the school

Private school based in Beijing. It is among the first schools in China authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organization (IBO). Offering boarding and day school facilities, it caters to students in primary, middle, and high school levels, encompassing both local and international students. With a diverse community of over 500 staff from various countries and regions, the institution presently houses 75 classes and more than 2,000 students, including 300 students and 60 staff in the Primary School department.

About the role

As Executive Elementary School Principal, you will lead the division’s next phase of growth—setting a clear vision for teaching, learning and well-being; championing the bilingual IB PYP aligned with the Chinese National Curriculum; and building a high-expectations culture for students and staff. You’ll ensure smooth progression into Middle School, recruit and develop Chinese and Western educators, and drive quality assurance and continuous professional learning. Alongside visible community leadership with parents, you’ll manage budgets, staffing and timetabling for value and efficiency, using performance data to inform strategy and raise outcomes.

• Provide strategic leadership of the Elementary phase, setting goals, policies and practices aligned to the school vision.
• Lead curriculum development and evaluation, ensuring high-quality IB PYP delivery and compliance with the Chinese National Curriculum.
• Embed inquiry-based, research-informed pedagogy and accurate, evidence-based self-reflection across teams.
• Establish clear attainment targets; review performance indicators with the Executive Head of Schools to raise progress and achievement.
• Prepare for and lead external quality assurance (re-accreditation, re-authorization and improvement processes).
• Build and sustain a collaborative culture; mentor, appraise and develop teachers; plan CPD pathways.
• Ensure safeguarding, health, safety and security measures are effectively implemented.
• Manage annual budgeting, monitor expenditure, and allocate resources for best value and educational impact.
• Produce an efficient timetable that optimizes facilities, staffing and student needs.
• Lead effective assessment, curriculum reviews and data-driven improvement cycles.
• Stay current with best practice; introduce policies, procedures and guidelines that advance the school’s vision.
• Partner with Admissions to clarify benchmarks and ensure admitted students align with program expectations.
• Act as a visible ambassador internally and externally; build strong, professional relationships with parents and the wider community.
• Promote student and staff voice; ensure communication systems keep stakeholders well informed.
• Coordinate with Elementary and Middle School leaders to guarantee smooth student transition and continuity of learning.
• Model the school’s core values—self-efficacy, empathy, kindness, professionalism—and foster a supportive, high-performing environment.

Qualifications

• Bachelor's degree; Master’s preferred
• PhD or EdD in an Education related field desired
• Recognized Principal Certification, NPQH or other preferred
• IB PYP training and experience
• Evidence of continuous professional development

Salary and benefits

• Market competitive salary
• Bonus provision
• Monthly housing allowance
• Summer, winter and all public holidays
• International medical cover
• Annual return flights for all dependents
• Free tuition for dependent children