The opportunity

The Governors at Duke of Kent School are seeking an inspirational and ambitious Head from September 2027 following the planned retirement of the present Head after eight successful years.

This is an exciting opportunity to build on the School’s strong foundations while shaping the next chapter of its distinctive story.

Duke of Kent School

Duke of Kent School is a thriving, coeducational independent day school for pupils from Nursery to Year 11, set in beautiful surroundings in Ewhurst, Surrey. Every pupil is known as an individual, relationships are strong and children are encouraged to discover their strengths, develop their confidence and find their spark.

The School combines academic ambition with exceptional breadth of opportunity and a strong commitment to pastoral care. Central to this is the belief that challenge and nurture belong together and that every child should be encouraged to achieve their personal best. Alongside academic success, pupils benefit from a rich programme of sport, music, drama, art, design, outdoor learning, leadership and service.

The next Head will join a committed staff, supportive Governors and parents, and a strong sense of community. We are looking for a visible and engaging leader who will protect what makes Duke of Kent School special while bringing the vision, energy and confidence to develop the School further. The successful candidate will be an outstanding educator, an inspiring leader of people and an excellent communicator, with the strategic and financial understanding required to lead an independent school successfully.

About you

We are seeking an exceptional educational leader with the credibility, experience and personal qualities to lead our distinctive independent school.

You will have:

• successful leadership and management experience in a school

• A strong academic background and understanding of current educational thinking and pedagogy

• a thorough understanding of safeguarding and pupil welfare

• strong knowledge of independent school education, including marketing and admissions

• Proven ability to lead and inspire staff, manage performance and foster a positive professional culture

• strategic planning and implementation experience;

• experience of working effectively with governors, trustees or equivalent governing bodies; and

• Outstanding communication and interpersonal skills

This is an exciting opportunity to inherit a school with a strong educational ethos, dedicated staff, supportive parents and Governors and pupils who are at the heart of everything we do.

How to apply

Applications should be made by submitting a completed application form and covering letter to recruitment@dokschool.org

Closing date: Friday 9 October 2026 at noon

Longlist interviews: Tuesday 3rd and Wednesday 4th November

Final interviews: Thursday 19th November 2026

An attractive salary package is available, commensurate with the size of the School and the previous experience of the successful candidate.

Above all, we are looking for someone who shares our belief that every child should be known, valued and encouraged to discover their own potential, and who will lead Duke of Kent School confidently into its next chapter.