Head of Boarding
Palmela, PT
Inspired Education is the leading global group of premium schools, with a portfolio of 118 premium private schools spanning 6 continents which utilise proven educational practices from every corner of the globe, ensuring over 90,000 students receive a world-class learning experience from Kindergarten to Year 13.
In 27 countries, Inspired schools are individually developed and anchored in the vibrant cultures of their respective locations. They collectively form an international family of schools that nurtures each student's academic and personal development in a progressive, dynamic, and innovative learning environment.
By joining our award-winning team of over 13,000 employees, you can work in state-of-the-art facilities alongside industry-renowned educators and leaders in some of the world's most desirable locations. We invest heavily in our team members who enjoy industry-leading professional development, exceptional career opportunities, and mobility across our group.
ROLE SUMMARY:
St. Peter’s International School, part of the global Inspired Education Group, is seeking an experienced, passionate, and student-centred couple to jointly lead our boarding provision.
One individual will assume the role of Head of Boarding, with responsibility for the strategic, pastoral, and operational leadership of the boarding house. The other will serve as House Parent, providing warm, consistent care and day-to-day support for our boarders.
Together, you will create a nurturing, inclusive, and vibrant home-from-home environment aligned with Inspired’s commitment to holistic education, safeguarding excellence, and international best practice.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
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Create a safe, inclusive, and nurturing boarding environment where students feel supported, respected, and heard.
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Be a consistent, visible presence in the house, offering guidance, emotional support, and building strong relationships with boarders.
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Ensure all safeguarding and compliance requirements are met, including risk assessments, incident logs, and reporting concerns.
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Plan and lead a varied programme of evening and weekend activities, trips, and events that enrich student life and promote community.
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Manage and support the boarding team through clear communication, effective rotas, regular meetings, and ongoing training.
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Oversee daily routines such as wake-up, mealtimes, prep, and lights-out, ensuring structure, warmth, and high standards.
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Monitor student well-being and development, addressing emerging issues sensitively and escalating when necessary.
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Maintain strong communication with parents and guardians, offering regular updates and support with empathy and professionalism.
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Liaise with social workers, education agents, and external professionals where required.
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Play an active role in school life, contributing to events, initiatives, and the continued development of the boarding provision.
THE IDEAL CANDIDATE WILL HAVE:
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A deep commitment to student well-being and holistic care.
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Experience in boarding, residential education, or youth work (international experience a plus).
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High emotional intelligence and discretion.
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Strong understanding of safeguarding and professional boundaries.
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Flexibility to work evenings, weekends, and holidays.
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Proven leadership experience in pastoral or residential settings.
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Knowledge of compliance and safeguarding frameworks (e.g. KCSIE, NMS).
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Skilled in staff management, planning, and administration.
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Strategic thinker with IT and data skills.
House Parent Specifics
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Naturally warm, nurturing, and emotionally available to adolescents.
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Calm, structured, and attentive to house routines.
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Ideally experienced in adolescent health or emotional regulation.
SAFEGUARDING STATEMENT
Inspired Education Group is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff, volunteers and other third parties to share this commitment. Safer recruitment practices and pre-employment background checks will be undertaken before any appointment is confirmed.
Visit our careers site for more information; https://jobs.inspirededu.com