The International School of Milan is seeking an exceptional Head of Boarding, to lead our dedicated boarding team from late August 2024. The role is a non-teaching, residential post with dedicated accommodation, utilities, as well as full board during termtime. We are also seeking a second boarding houseparent at this moment in time: therefore, whilst we would welcome single applications, these combined posts would especially suit a couple who are seeking to work together as a team. If applying as a couple, please upload both of your CVs, as well as a combined letter of application.
This is an outstanding opportunity for boarding professional(s) with a strong background in pastoral care and safeguarding to lead our boarding provision, as well as to be key players within our whole school student support team. You will be responsible for the well-being of all boarders within our fabulous modern boarding house, with the aim of fostering a warm, homely, supportive and caring environment, within which all boarders will flourish and grow.
Our Boarding provision currently caters for up to 42 students of any nationality, aged 14-18, with many students joining us from overseas. We are an all-through IB continuum school, with boarding students progressing from IBMYP (G10-11) to IBDP (G12-13). Thus, an international and multi-cultural outlook is a key requirement for all members of our boarding team. Fluency in the English language is essential, and any ability in other languages would also be an advantage.
Working shifts are varied, and will include regular evening and weekend duties, as well as an expectation of continued provision for boarders during public holiday periods. Thus, the role includes the leadership of after-school, weekend and public holiday trips and activities for boarders. Our boarding house closes during longer holidays when boarders will travel home. Throughout July and early August, the boarding house is utilized for our summer camp, which is run by a separate team.
The final deadline for applications is Wednesday 31st January 2024. However, an early application is definitely advised, as we will begin interviewing strong applicants online as soon as possible, and reserve the right to make an appointment prior to the closing date.
The position:
The first role is for an exceptional Head of Boarding, to lead our dedicated boarding team from late August 2024, and to act as our lead Boarding Houseparent. The role is a non-teaching, residential post with dedicated accommodation, utilities and full board during termtime. We are also seeking a second boarding houseparent at this moment in time, and the second houseparent would also undertake full duties within our boarding house.
We strongly value a growth mindset at IS Milan, with ongoing professional reflection and development a core expectation for all staff. Previous experience of boarding is essential: we would welcome applications from anyone who is seeking to develop their career within our vibrant and exciting location and culture, as well as from more experienced boarding houseparent(s). Initial training (including for safeguarding and child-protection) is routinely provided to anyone appointed to our boarding house, and you will be supported by our DSLs, as well as by our wider student support team.
The IB Learner Profile is at the core of our school’s philosophy, and it is especially important that our boarding staff model this through their daily interactions, building strong and positive relationships with our students. Global citizenship, a respect for diversity, and inclusivity, are central to everything we do.
Key Responsibilities:
As Head of Boarding, you will:
• Oversee all aspects of our boarding provision, leading and line-managing our boarding staff team;
• Model and develop a positive atmosphere for our boarding students, ensuring expectations are clear, whilst also offering support, flexibility and understanding when necessary;
• Be responsible for safeguarding the needs and well-being of all boarders, in close liaison with our DSL and Heads of Student Welfare, as well as with our school medical team as may be necessary;
• Communicate regularly with the parents of all boarders, ensuring strong relationships and a positive partnership;
• Work with other administrative staff to communicate and address the needs of the boarding house and team, ensuring swift and proactive resolution of any issues;
• Ensure appropriate duty staffing of the boarding house at all times, including during evenings, weekends and during public holidays;
• Oversee the schedule of evening, weekend and public holiday trips and activities;
• Collaborate closely with any member of staff on any issue relating to boarders;
• Collaborate with our admissions team regarding the arrival of new boarders;
• Celebrate the achievements of boarders within our newsletters and other publications;
• Any other duties that may reasonably be assigned to a Head of Boarding.
Our Boarding Houseparents:
• Are resident within our boarding house;
• Are allocated regular duties within our boarding house, including during evenings, weekends and public holidays;
• Assist with our programme of evening, weekend and public holiday trips and activities;
• Assist with emergency situations outside of your duty times if necessary;
• Develop and sustain positive relationships with all boarders, prioritising their well-being and safety.
The ideal candidate will have:
- enthusiasm and passion for working with students between the ages of 14-18;
- previous experience as a boarding houseparent, with safeguarding experience;
- appropriate qualifications to support the role;
- a commitment to supporting internationalism, diversity and inclusion;
- a commitment to professional growth and development.
To apply please include the following:
• Cover Letter which clearly outlines why you are interested in the role and in the school – please write this jointly if applying as a couple;
• CV with photo – please upload both CVs if applying as a couple;
• Contact details of referees, one of which must be the Head/Director from current/most recent appointment.
We will begin interviewing strong applicants as soon as possible, and reserve the right to make an appointment prior to the closing date.
Source: Head of Boarding and Boarding Houseparent, Italy – Tes Jobs
