Founding Head of Prep and Designated Safeguarding Lead for Whole

Job Title

Founding Head of Prep and Designated Safeguarding Lead for Whole School

Location

Mohali, Punjab, India

Salary Range and Package Details

36–45 lakh per annum (approximately £30,000–£38,000)

Additional benefits include:

Housing provided

Utilities covered

Girls' education included

Start Date

April 2026

School Background Including School Curriculum

This is an exciting opportunity to join a new international school in partnership with a prestigious UK independent school. The Prep School will comprise four year groups—Years 3 to 6—and will follow the Cambridge Primary Curriculum with elements of a Future Skills curriculum integrated throughout.

The Head of Prep will have oversight of the Pre-Prep curriculum (Nursery–Year 2) and lead the Prep curriculum (Years 3–6), ensuring continuity, progression, and excellence across these years. Through an engaging and challenging curriculum, high-quality pastoral care, and a rich co-curricular offer, the school will develop curious, confident, and kind young learners who are well-prepared for Senior School and life beyond.

Who Might Thrive at This School

This is a unique founding role for a visionary educational leader who thrives on building something exceptional from the ground up. You will be someone who is passionate about delivering world-class British education whilst embracing the local context and community. The ideal candidate will be an inspiring leader who values innovation, inquiry-based learning, and creating a culture where every child flourishes academically, socially, and emotionally. If you are committed to educational excellence, collaboration, and safeguarding, and are excited by the opportunity to shape the future of a new school, this role is for you.

Snapshot of Information About the City

Mohali, officially Sahibzada Ajit Singh Nagar, is a modern, planned city in Punjab, located just southwest of Chandigarh. Part of the Chandigarh Tricity region, Mohali is approximately 265 km north of New Delhi. The city has developed rapidly as an IT and commercial hub with excellent infrastructure, sports facilities, and a growing international community. With its blend of urban amenities and proximity to the scenic foothills of the Himalayas, Mohali offers a high quality of life for expatriate professionals and their families.

Required Qualifications

Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field (Master's preferred)

Qualified Teacher Status (QTS) or equivalent

Designated Safeguarding Lead training (or willingness to complete prior to starting)

Essential SkillsMinimum 5 years' teaching experience in relevant age ranges, including leadership experience

Proven success in curriculum leadership and staff management

Strong understanding of the British curriculum

Track record of delivering high standards in both academic outcomes and pastoral care

Demonstrable experience in safeguarding leadership, ideally at whole-school level

Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

Ability to lead, inspire, and develop a team of teachers and support staff

Strategic thinking and the ability to use data to drive school improvement

Strong organisational and operational management capabilities

Safeguarding Skills and Qualities Required for International Teachers

As the Designated Safeguarding Lead for the whole school, the successful candidate must demonstrate:

A deep commitment to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children

Knowledge of international best practice in child protection and safeguarding

Ability to implement robust safeguarding policies and procedures across all age groups

Experience providing training and guidance to staff on safeguarding matters

Strong liaison skills with relevant authorities and agencies on safeguarding issues

Ability to conduct safeguarding audits and drive compliance and strategic improvements

Vigilance, sound judgement, and the ability to respond appropriately to safeguarding concerns

Understanding of contextual safeguarding in an international school environment

All appointments are subject to rigorous safer recruitment procedures including, but not limited to, satisfactory references, proof of qualifications, identity verification, and police checks (including overseas checks where applicable).

Who We Are – chk Education

chk Education is a leading boutique search firm specialising in supporting exceptional international schools with their recruitment needs. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and utilise safer recruitment procedures aligned with international best practice and the International Taskforce for Child Protection.

Interested candidates should email:

If this role isn't quite right for you, but you are looking to secure an international teaching position, please reach out to Rachael with your preferences and she will be able to explore other opportunities with you.

Due to the number of applications we receive, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Please note: In some of the countries where our client schools operate, there are upper age restrictions related to the issuance of visas and work permits. If you have any questions regarding this, please don't hesitate to ask.