Assistant Head of School for External Affairs

CommunicationsMatch; Preston; On-site; GBP 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading educational institution in Preston, UK, seeks an Assistant Head of School for External Affairs. This role involves enhancing the school's visibility and integrating marketing and enrollment initiatives in line with Montessori values. Key responsibilities include developing external affairs strategies, managing donor relationships, and overseeing enrollment practices. Candidates should have extensive experience in education advancement, strong communication skills, and a commitment to Montessori principles. The position is pivotal in ensuring continuity of leadership and fostering community engagement.

Qualifications

• 10+ years of experience in advancement in an independent or Montessori school setting.
• 5+ years leading enrollment strategy.
• 5+ years of management experience.

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement cohesive external affairs strategy.
• Lead and participate in all aspects of development work.
• Partner with the Head of School to deepen philanthropic culture.

Skills

Strategic and reflective thinking

Relationship management

Storytelling

Organizational skills

Communication

Education

Bachelor’s degree

Advanced degree

Job description

Start Date 7.1.2026

Reports to: Head of School

Supervises: Enrollment professional, Director of Marketing & Communications, and Development professional

Position Overview

The Assistant Head of School for External Affairs serves as a key member of the school’s senior leadership team and is responsible for advancing the school’s visibility, reputation, and resources through the thoughtful integration of marketing, enrollment, and development. Rooted in Montessori philosophy, this leader works to communicate and embody the school’s values of respect, curiosity, independence, and community. The Assistant Head of School for External Affairs develops and executes a strategic vision that connects families, alumni, past parents, and the broader community to the school’s mission.

This role requires both strategic foresight and hands‑on engagement: the Assistant Head will guide planning and analysis while personally engaging in fundraising, donor relations, community partnerships, and enrollment initiatives that support the school’s mission and values. In addition, this position requires the experience, judgment, and leadership capacity to step into the Head of School role when needed, ensuring continuity of leadership and the smooth operation of the school in the Head’s absence.

Key Responsibilities

Leadership

• Capacity to step into the Head of School role when needed, ensuring continuity of leadership and smooth operation of the school in the Head’s absence.

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a cohesive external affairs strategy that aligns marketing, enrollment, and development efforts with Montessori principles and the institution's long-term goals.
• Serve as a thought partner to the Head of School and Board, helping articulate a clear and compelling vision for the school’s future.
• Ensure that all outward-facing initiatives reflect the school’s Montessori values.
• Utilize data, research, and reflective practice to evaluate and refine strategies for community engagement, enrollment health, and philanthropy.

Marketing and Communications

• Partner with the Director of Marketing and Communications to lead mission-centered storytelling that highlights the distinct value of Montessori education and the Toddler–8th grade continuum.
• Oversee consistent, authentic communication across all platforms (print, digital, and social) that reflects Montessori tone and values.
• Support staff in communicating the Montessori approach to prospective families and the community.
• Collaborate with the Director of Marketing and Communications to curate the school’s public presence and community partnerships in a manner that fosters an understanding of Montessori education and enhances the school’s reputation.

Enrollment Management

• Partner with the Director of Enrollment to attract and retain families who align with Montessori philosophy and the school’s mission.
• Hone the pre-existing, thoughtful, relationship‑based admissions practices that reflect Montessori values of respect and individualized attention.
• Analyze demographic and community trends to inform strategic enrollment decisions.
• Work with the Director of Enrollment to strategically allocate financial aid and tuition remission.

Development and Advancement

• Lead and participate in all aspects of development work, from strategy to direct donor engagement.
• Personally cultivate and solicit gifts to support school priorities.
• Partner with the Head of School and Board of Trustees to deepen philanthropic culture and build long‑term sustainability.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree required; advanced degree preferred.
• At least 10+ years of progressively responsible experience in advancement in an independent or Montessori school setting.
• At least 5+ years leading enrollment strategy.
• At least 5+ years of management experience, including experience managing multiple constituencies – i.e., internal staff, families, donors, and other external parties.
• Demonstrated success leading integrated external relations strategies.
• Proven ability to cultivate relationships and secure major gifts.
• Outstanding communication, organizational, and interpersonal skills.
• Warmth, integrity, and a deep appreciation for Montessori education and its values.

Attributes and Competencies

• Strategic and reflective thinker with strong follow‑through.
• Relationship‑centered leader who models Montessori respect and empathy in all interactions.
• Skilled storyteller who can translate Montessori philosophy into accessible and inspiring language for a range of audiences.
• Collaborative and collegial; able to work effectively with educators, families, board members, and community partners.
• Committed to diversity, equity, justice, inclusion, and belonging as essential expressions of Montessori principles.