Commencing in April 2027, we are seeking an outstanding and committed educational leader to take responsibility for the leadership and operation of Gibb House, which is home to approximately 60–70 boarders. Reporting directly to the Headmaster, the Director of Boarding has overall responsibility for the leadership, culture and day-to-day operation of the College’s boarding community. This is a significant pastoral and operational leadership role, with responsibility for ensuring that Gibb House provides a safe, inclusive, well-managed and nurturing environment in which every boarder is known, supported and able to thrive.
With a national and international reputation for excellence, Scots College is a world-class independent school with a strong Presbyterian Heritage. It is a fully co-educational, IB World School in the eastern suburbs of Wellington, New Zealand, and comprises three schools in one: Junior (Years 1–6), Middle (Years 7–10), and Senior (Years 11–13). With a roll of more than 1,100 students, we provide our students with an excellent and holistic education within a vibrant, diverse learning environment with the aim of allowing them to contribute as global citizens who think creatively, reason critically, communicate effectively, and develop the necessary skills to learn. For life.
The Opportunity
The Director of Boarding will provide leadership to the boarding team, maintain high standards of pastoral care and student wellbeing, and develop strong relationships with boarders, parents and whānau. They will ensure that the culture and expectations of Gibb House reflect those of the wider College and that boarding students are fully engaged in College life.
The role carries responsibility for the effective management of Boarding House staff and boarding operations, including student wellbeing and behaviour, safeguarding, risk management, staffing, communication with families and the systems and procedures necessary for the safe and effective operation of the House.
The College is committed to providing an outstanding holistic education, characterised by high academic expectations, strong pastoral care and extensive opportunities for students to participate in sport, culture, service and wider co-curricular life.
Teaching is not a requirement of the position. However, there may be an opportunity to teach within the Middle and/or Senior School should this be of interest to the successful candidate.
The Person
The successful candidate will be a visible, approachable and highly engaged leader who enjoys working with young people and understands the particular challenges and responsibilities that come with leading a residential school community. They will also need to demonstrate:
Substantial experience in boarding, residential education or a closely related environment
Proven leadership capability including the ability to establish clear expectations and accountability
A sound understanding of the pastoral care of young people including safeguarding, student wellbeing, risk management and the responsibilities associated with the residential care of young people
The judgement, maturity and resilience to manage complex pastoral, behavioural and operational situations
Exceptional interpersonal and communication skills
A genuine passion for education and an understanding of how a high-quality boarding experience contributes to students' development.
Excellent organisational and administrative capability
A demonstrated ability to engage, motivate and positively influence young people
An understanding of independent education in New Zealand
A commitment to the special character, values and ethos of Scots College, with a willingness to actively participation in the wider life of the College
A commitment to building an inclusive, respectful and responsive culture
That they hold (or are willing to obtain) current certificates in Physical First Aid, Mental Health First Aid and Physical Restraint certificates as well as a full driver's licence.
Above all, we are looking for someone with the presence, judgement, warmth and genuine commitment to lead a residential community of young people.
The successful candidate will understand that excellent boarding is about considerably more than just the efficient operation of a hostel. It is about creating a home away from home, establishing a strong sense of belonging and community, and ensuring that every boarder has the support, structure and opportunities they need to flourish.
If you are motivated by the prospect of being part of a wonderful organisation and would enjoy the challenges of this exciting role, then we would be delighted to hear from you. Please see our website for the job description https://www.scotscollege.school.nz/about/careers.
Applications close on 6 November 2026 and are to include a covering letter and current CV (stating least the last five years of work history and providing details of at least two recent referees).
Applications must be made via our Applicant Portal:
https://app.citationhr.com/app/portals/applicant/apply?aid=8a72c7b5-9eef-4bdc-953c-7048c2027e00