Job Title: School Principal – American Curriculum

Location: Astana, Kazakhstan

School: International Community Schools (ICS) – Kazakhstan Branch

About International Community Schools (ICS)

International Community Schools (ICS) is a well-established international education group headquartered in Abu Dhabi, UAE, operating multiple campuses delivering high-quality international education. As part of our global expansion, ICS is opening its new branch in Astana, Kazakhstan, offering an American Curriculum aligned with international best practices and local regulatory requirements.

International Community Schools is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to satisfactory references.

Position Overview

The Principal will be the academic and operational leader of the ICS Astana campus, responsible for establishing and managing a high-performing American Curriculum school in a new international environment. The role requires strong leadership, cultural adaptability, and deep understanding of international school operations, while ensuring compliance with Kazakhstan Ministry of Education regulations.

Key Roles & Responsibilities

Academic Leadership

• Lead the successful implementation of the American Curriculum in alignment with international standards and local education laws.
  
• Ensure high-quality teaching, learning, assessment, and student achievement.
  
• Oversee curriculum adaptation where required to meet Kazakhstan education regulations.
  
• Promote student-centered learning, innovation, and continuous academic improvement.
  

School Operations & Management

• Manage day-to-day school operations including academic, administrative, and support functions.
  
• Develop and implement school policies, procedures, and academic calendars.
  
• Work closely with ICS Head Office in Abu Dhabi on governance, reporting, and strategic initiatives.
  
• Ensure school readiness for inspections, accreditation, and audits.
  

Regulatory Compliance

• Ensure full compliance with Kazakhstan Ministry of Education requirements and licensing standards.
  
• Liaise with local authorities, education departments, and external agencies.
  
• Ensure school documentation, reporting, and inspections meet all national requirements.
  

Staff Leadership & Development

• Recruit, mentor, and evaluate teaching and administrative staff.
  
• Build a diverse, culturally sensitive, and high-performing school team.
  
• Implement professional development programs aligned with American Curriculum best practices.
  
• Foster a positive school culture based on collaboration, accountability, and respect.
  

Student & Parent Engagement

• Build strong relationships with students, parents, and the wider community.
  
• Act as the primary point of contact for parent concerns and school communications.
  
• Promote student well-being, safeguarding, and inclusive education practices.
  

Strategic Growth & Branding

• Support student enrollment growth and retention strategies.
  
• Represent the school professionally in marketing events, open days, and community forums.
  
• Contribute to long-term planning, school improvement plans, and expansion strategies.
  

Requirements

Essential Qualifications

• Master’s degree or higher in Education, Educational Leadership, School Administration, or a related field.
  
• Recognized teaching qualification.
  
• Minimum 8–10 years of experience in education, with at least 3–5 years in a Principal or Senior Leadership role.
  
• Proven experience in American Curriculum schools (international school experience is highly preferred).
  

International & Cultural Experience

• Experience working in international or multicultural school environments.
  
• Strong understanding of adapting international curricula to local education systems.
  
• Ability to work effectively across different cultures, regulations, and languages.
  

Language Requirements

• English: Fluent (spoken and written) – mandatory.
  
• Russian and/or Kazakh: Strongly preferred (or willingness to learn).
  
• Ability to communicate effectively with local staff, parents, and authorities.
  

Leadership & Skills

• Strong instructional leadership and school management skills.
  
• Knowledge of international accreditation standards (e.g., Cognia, AdvancED – preferred).
  
• Excellent communication, problem-solving, and decision-making abilities.
  
• Experience in school start-up or new campus opening is an advantage.
  
• High level of professionalism, integrity, and adaptability.
  

Benefits

Employment Package

• Competitive, tax-efficient international salary.
  
• Housing allowance or accommodation support.
  
• Annual flight ticket.
  
• Medical insurance.
  
• Relocation assistance (if applicable).
  
• Professional development opportunities.
  
• Contract renewable based on performance.