Primary School Acting Principal – SPARK Carlswald – 2026
SPARK Schools is seeking a dynamic Principal to join our team at SPARK Carlswald, Midrand, Gauteng. This is a Temporary role focused on leading a SPARK school to deliver outstanding student achievement and a vibrant school culture.
Quick Info
Location: SPARK Carlswald, Midrand, Gauteng (Head Office/Support Office or Name of a school)
Position Type: Temporary
Reporting Line: Reports To School Portfolio Manager
Closing Date: Not specified
About SPARK Schools
SPARK Schools is a social impact disruptor leading change in the education space with a network of affordable private schools. The network delivers transformational education through Africa’s first blended learning model, combining classroom teaching with online instruction to provide personalised learning at an affordable cost. Our culture emphasises collaboration, innovation, and urgency as we work to ensure every SPARK scholar can access university and careers.
We’re a high-growth, mission-driven organisation that is vibrant, fast-paced, tech-enabled, data driven, and team-oriented. We offer a great place to grow, with clear professional development and mentorship as part of our commitment to staff and student success. Learn more about us on our About page and watch our Vision Video.
Purpose of Role
The Principal drives student achievement by leading a team of staff to prepare SPARK scholars for university and beyond. They set a rigorous vision for achievement, oversee school operations and culture, and collaborate with senior leaders to ensure the SPARK model delivers high-quality education and strong values across the school community.
Key Responsibilities
Instruction & Student Achievement
- Implement a rigorous instructional programme aligned with SPARK’s mission and vision.
- Use data (assessment and anecdotal) to guide instruction and decisions.
- Set ambitious goals and ensure students and staff are accountable for achieving them.
Culture & Leadership
- Build a school culture focused on high achievement, character, and a love of learning.
- Lead a professional development cycle, including weekly observations and coaching, with support from SPARK Support staff.
- Manage behaviour and oversee individualised plans for students who need additional support.
People & Community
- Foster leadership development among Deputy Principals and school staff.
- Build strong relationships with parents, families and the local community to boost student achievement.
- Lead school-wide events and coordinate family/teacher engagement with the leadership team.
Operations & Compliance
- Assist in budget preparation and management with the School Operations Manager.
- Lead on onboarding of new staff and participate in recruitment of school-based personnel.
- Communicate school policies and procedures clearly to staff, students, parents and community; implement disciplinary procedures where required.
Minimum Requirements
Education
- Grade 12 Certificate.
- Completed B.Ed or PGCE degree.
- SACE registration.
Experience
- Previous experience with primary school-aged children.
- 3–4 years of excellent classroom instruction.
- Experience leading a team, preferably in a school context.
- Experience with South African labour laws.
Skills & Mindset
- Fluent English; strong communication skills.
- Desire to work in a technology-driven, collaborative, fast-growing social impact environment.
- Commitment to high-quality, affordable education enabling access to university and careers.
- Values: Service, Persistence, Achievement, Responsibility and Kindness.
Remuneration & Benefits
- Fair market-linked remuneration with performance-based annual bonuses and increases.
- Above-average annual leave.
- Life, disability and funeral cover; employee wellness support.
- Educational support, study leave and opportunities for professional development, mentorship, and career growth.
- Employee discount on school fees.
Application Process
How to Apply: Please apply via our Official Careers Portal. We will review applications on an ongoing basis and contact shortlisted candidates.
Official Careers Portal: SPARK Careers Portal
SPARK Schools is an equal opportunities employer. Preference will be given to candidates from designated groups in line with Employment Equity goals and targets. SPARK Schools encourage persons with disabilities to apply. If you have not heard from us within two weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
