Secondary IB Diploma Coordinator

This position focuses on ensuring that the programme for Grades 11 and 12 at ICS reflect best practice and is in harmony with the educational philosophy of the school. The Diploma Programme Coordinator reports directly to the Secondary Principal and is a member of the Secondary Leadership Team and, as such, is responsible for positively supporting school change.  The IB Diploma Coordinator needs to demonstrate a strong commitment to maintaining a collaborative culture within the school. In addition, he/she needs to embody an understanding of the social and emotional dimensions of learning as evidenced through practice.

The IB Diploma Programme Coordinator must be available to support students and parents, both virtually and in person, when the IB results are released in July. This position also involves oversight of the Extended Essay,  Theory of Knowledge, Creativity Activity and Service (CAS) programme, Core Curriculum (for diploma organisation and research skills) and the Pamoja online courses. The teaching allocation will be determined based on the best fit for the candidate and the School.

Responsibilities

Leadership and vision

• Participating fully in the development of the school's educational strategy, particularly as it affects the programme for Grades 11 and 12.
• Supporting an inclusive approach to the IB Diploma and with the development of alternative pathways to graduation as needed.
• Helping ensure, in collaboration with the Secondary Leadership Team, an effective transition between Grades 9 and 10 and Grades 11 and 12.
• Modeling best practice in teaching and a highly collaborative approach to team-planning. 
• Remaining up-to-date with developments in the IB Diploma and IB MYP Programmes.
• Facilitating a strong understanding of the IB Diploma at ICS among students, staff and parents.
• Leading, in collaboration with the Secondary Leadership Team, the analysis of IB results after each examination period, including the preparation of a report on results each year.
• Leaving, in collaboration with the Library team, the Secondary school’s approach to academic integrity.
• Ensuring Theory of Knowledge is an embedded part of the curriculum across subject areas.
• Leading a curriculum for diploma students in which a team of teachers deliver essential organisational, planning and research-based skills to support their diploma studies.
• Ensuring effective processes for reviewing and implementing the Extended Essay and monitoring student progress. 
• Overseeing the CAS Coordinator and the implementation of CAS.
• Overseeing the Grade Level Leaders for Grades 11 and 12.
• Directly supporting and mentoring some of the Heads of Department.
• Supporting all staff with the implementation of the IB Diploma and Managebac.

Administration

• Carrying out the necessary tasks involved in the coordination of the IBDP, including registration of students, monitoring of deadlines, dispatching of necessary documentation,  organization of the examination sessions (including internal exams and deadlines for Grades 11 and 12) and the identification of resources to support programme implementation.
• Supporting teachers and students in preparing for the Diploma examinations.
• In collaboration with the University and Careers Counsellor and Principal, counselling students on appropriate subject selection as well as preparing the documentation necessary for this process.
• Ensuring that processes are in place for the school and its students to comply with all applicable IB regulations.
• Ensuring relevant and timely access to IB Diploma publications and Professional Development Opportunities.
• Making provision for appropriate liaison and support upon the publication of results in July.
• Preparing the school for the DP evaluation every five years and, in collaboration with the Secondary Leadership Team, acting on any post evaluation recommendations.
• Actively participating in and helping lead Head of Department and Pastoral Leadership Team meetings.
• Proactively identifying students of concern in Grades 11 and 12 and working with the Pastoral Leadership team to identify appropriate forms of intervention.
• Scheduling and leading meetings/workshops with staff, students and parents as appropriate.
• Acting as the liaison between the school community and the IB, as well as other IB schools.
• Maintaining an up-to-date record of professional development and working with the Secondary Principal on PD needs.
• Coordinating the CEM IBE aptitude tests which serve as broad indicators for potential in the IB Diploma.

Requirements

• Experience as an IB Diploma Programme coordinator or extensive experience working in a leadership position in an IB World School.
• A specialist, up-to-date knowledge of the IB Diploma Programme.
• A thorough understanding of IB Middle Years and IB Primary Years Programmes.
• A comprehensive understanding of effective teaching and assessment strategies.
• Practical knowledge of contemporary leadership practice.
• Extensive experience in leading others e.g. committee chair, leadership role, running professional development workshops and conferences.
• Excellent English communication skills.
• Competence in using technology for both learning and information management purposes.
• Strong organisational skills.
• A commitment to holistic, learner centred education.
• Knowledge of the developmental needs of children of 12 - 18 years.
• Empathy, a high degree of emotional intelligence and effective interpersonal and social skills.

Terms and conditions

The initial contract is for two years and is renewable. The generous salary and range of benefits will be commensurate with the qualifications and experience of the successful candidate, with the overall package reflecting the importance of the position.

Next steps

Interested candidates should email a full letter of application, a statement of personal educational philosophy, detailed resume/curriculum vitae, and three referees. The Head of School reserves the right to apply directly to the writers of open testimonials for confidential statements.

Applications should be addressed to:

Ms. Mary-Lyn Campbell,

Head of School

We are looking forward to receiving your online application.