FlyTeachers is recruiting a Development Director (Academic) on behalf of a partner international school in South Korea. This is a high-impact K–12 academic leadership position, focused on strengthening teaching and learning, leading sustainable school improvement, and embedding consistent academic standards across the school.

This opportunity will suit an experienced senior leader who combines strategic thinking with hands-on instructional leadership, and who thrives in an international context where cultural intelligence, clarity of communication, and strong stakeholder relationships are essential.

The role

As Development Director (Academic), you will work closely with the Head of School and senior leadership team to:

• set and deliver a clear academic vision aligned to the school mission drive measurable improvements in teaching quality and student outcomes develop a coherent whole-school approach to curriculum, assessment, and learning support build leadership capacity through coaching, professional learning, and performance development

You will be a visible leader in the school community, trusted by staff, students, and families, and confident in analysing evidence to plan and implement improvement priorities.

Key responsibilities Academic strategy and school improvement

• Lead the design and delivery of the school’s academic development plan, ensuring priorities are realistic, resourced, and measurable. Establish and monitor high-quality teaching and learning expectations across phases, including agreed standards for planning, instruction, and feedback. Use assessment and performance data to identify trends, remove barriers to learning, and support targeted intervention and stretch.

Curriculum and assessment

• Oversee curriculum coherence across K–12, supporting leaders and teachers to align scope and sequence, progression, and rigour. Strengthen assessment practices, ensuring they are purposeful, consistent, and used effectively to improve learning. Support (where relevant) accreditation readiness and quality assurance cycles, ensuring documentation and classroom practice align.

Professional learning and staff development

• Design and embed impactful professional development, including induction, coaching, and ongoing development pathways. Build a culture of reflective practice, collaboration, and continuous improvement. Support middle leaders to develop confidence in instructional leadership, observation, feedback, and team development.

Leadership, communication, and culture

• Partner with senior leaders to ensure academic expectations are aligned with pastoral systems and student wellbeing. Communicate clearly with staff and families about academic priorities, curriculum, and student progress. Model professionalism, integrity, and a student-centred approach in all aspects of leadership.

Qualifications

•  ?????A recognised teaching licence/teaching qualification (required).
• At least 5–6 years of solid leadership experience in an international school setting (required).
• Strong working knowledge of the English National Curriculum (ENC) and Cambridge curriculum (required).
• A proven track record of improving teaching quality and student outcomes through effective school improvement planning.
• Confidence in leading curriculum, assessment, and data-informed decision-making.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to influence, coach, and lead change.
• High professional standards, discretion, and cultural competence within an international community.

Salary and benefits The school offers a competitive leadership package, aligned with the seniority of the role and local market conditions. Full details will be shared with shortlisted candidates. Depending on the appointment, benefits may include relocation support and other allowances typical of international school leadership roles.

How to apply To apply, please submit:

• a current CV
• a short supporting statement outlining your leadership experience and impact, particularly in teaching and learning, curriculum development, and school improvement within an international school context

FlyTeachers will share additional school details with shortlisted candidates and will support applicants throughout the process.

FlyTeachers will guide candidates through each stage and will share further school and package details with shortlisted applicants due to the confidential nature of this search.

Safeguarding and safer recruitment FlyTeachers is a recruitment agency. We are committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. All appointments are subject to appropriate safeguarding and safer recruitment checks, which may include (where relevant) identity checks, enhanced references, qualification verification, employment history checks, and criminal record checks in line with local requirements.

Equality and data privacy We welcome applications from suitably qualified candidates regardless of background. Your personal data will be handled in accordance with applicable data protection requirements and used only for recruitment purposes.