Founding Principal (Education) at Summit Recruitment and Search

The successful candidate will establish the school’s culture, academic standards, systems and traditions from inception, creating a high-performance environment with a strong emphasis on STEM, leadership, research, community engagement and academic excellence. Set on a 41-acre campus, the school will also incorporate food production, agriculture and a conservation forest as part of its broader commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead the establishment and launch of the school, developing its academic culture, systems, policies, standards and traditions in partnership with the Board.
• Deliver an academically rigorous and highly selective education programme, with particular emphasis on STEM, research, writing, critical thinking and preparation for admission to leading universities in Kenya and internationally.
• Lead student outreach, identification and recruitment, building strong relationships with neighboring junior secondary schools and communities to identify academically gifted students from economically disadvantaged backgrounds.
• Recruit, mentor and manage outstanding teachers and school leaders, building a high-performing faculty committed to academic excellence, student development and the school’s mission.
• Oversee student welfare, safeguarding, pastoral care and residential life, ensuring that students are supported academically, socially and personally throughout their time at the school.
• Develop strong relationships with parents, local communities and other stakeholders, ensuring that community engagement and service are central to the culture and long-term success of the institution.
• Provide strategic oversight of school operations, finances, compliance and campus development, including the integration of agriculture, food production and conservation initiatives across the school’s 41-acre campus.
• Build strategic partnerships with universities, educational institutions, research organisations and other stakeholders, creating pathways for students and strengthening the school’s academic, leadership and community impact.

Key Qualifications

• First-Class Honours Bachelor’s degree in a STEM discipline from a recognized university. A Master’s degree or PhD in STEM Education is an added advantage.
• 5+ years of leadership experience within a high-performing secondary school or similarly rigorous academic institution.
• Demonstrated track record of achieving outstanding academic outcomes, particularly in STEM subjects, and preparing high-achieving students for competitive university admission.
• Proven experience in student recruitment, academic outreach and talent identification, with the ability to engage schools and communities to identify academically gifted students.
• Strong experience in curriculum leadership, teacher development, school operations, safeguarding and stakeholder engagement, with the ability to establish effective systems from the ground up.
• Exceptional leadership, strategic planning and communication skills, with high integrity and a strong commitment to educational access, community development, agriculture, and conservation.

Deadline for applications: 31/10/2026