We are partnering with an established preschool in Singapore to appoint an experienced Principal to lead the school through its next phase of development.
This is a leadership opportunity for an educator who believes that a successful preschool should be education-led, child-centred and professionally managed. The successful candidate will combine strong school leadership and operational capabilities with a genuine passion for early childhood education, teacher development and creating an outstanding experience for children and families.
The school adopts a progressive, inquiry-based and Reggio Emilia-inspired educational philosophy. Prior Reggio Emilia experience is not essential, but candidates should be open-minded, reflective and genuinely interested in progressive approaches to early childhood education.
Key Responsibilities
- Provide overall leadership and management of the preschool, ensuring high standards across education, operations, people and parent engagement.
- Maintain a visible presence within the school, developing a strong understanding of classroom practices, children, teachers and the wider school community.
- Build, motivate and develop a high-performing teaching team while establishing clear expectations, accountability and professional standards.
- Ensure teacher performance is managed fairly, consistently and objectively through professional observation and evidence-based assessment.
- Work closely and collaboratively with the Curriculum Leader to strengthen teaching quality, curriculum delivery and pedagogical development.
- Promote a child-centred and inquiry-based learning environment that supports the wellbeing, development and curiosity of every child.
- Build strong relationships with parents and manage complaints, conflicts and sensitive situations calmly, professionally and effectively.
- Ensure parent concerns are followed through to resolution while balancing individual needs with the principles and interests of the school.
- Oversee the effective day-to-day operation of the preschool, including staffing, compliance, administration and school standards.
- Take ownership of agreed initiatives and ensure strong execution, communication and follow-through.
- Support enrolment growth through prospective parent engagement, school tours and clear communication of the school's educational philosophy.
- Contribute to initiatives that strengthen the school's reputation, parent satisfaction and long-term sustainability.
Requirements
- Strong leadership experience within an early childhood or preschool environment, ideally as a Principal, Vice Principal, Centre Leader or equivalent.
- A genuine passion for working with children and a strong belief in the value of early childhood education.
- Demonstrated ability to lead, motivate and develop educators while maintaining appropriate accountability.
- Strong interpersonal judgement and a fair, respectful and consistent approach to people management.
- Excellent parent communication skills, including experience handling complaints, difficult conversations and sensitive situations.
- A strong educational mindset and genuine interest in teaching quality, curriculum, child development and teacher development.
- An appreciation for progressive and child-centred educational approaches; exposure to Reggio Emilia or inquiry-based learning would be advantageous.
- The ability to collaborate effectively with curriculum and pedagogical leaders without needing to control every educational decision.
- Strong organisational skills, ownership mentality and the ability to execute consistently.
- High levels of integrity, transparency and professional judgement.
- Commercial awareness, with an understanding of the importance of enrolment, parent satisfaction, staff quality and school reputation.
