Arendal International School – Looking for a new Head of School
About AIS
Arendal International School (AIS) is authorized by the International Baccalaureate Organisation
(IB) to deliver the Primary and Middle Years Programmes. AIS has experienced significant
growth in its 20-year history and is still developing both as an organization and as a learning and
social community. We are a single-form entry international school with 200+ students. Our
student body in both programmes consists of students from over 50 nationalities. The staff is an
experienced and stable group from more than 25 different nationalities. AIS is a school that is
growing and striving to follow the IB Philosophy at every level of the organization.
Role
We are currently seeking an experienced Head of School with a passion for learning and school
development to support our dedicated team. The successful candidate will be offered a
permanent 100% position. The role will include leading our Education Leadership Team, driving
the strategic vision, and managing the day-to-day operations.
We are looking for a Head of School who:
✔ Provides strong pedagogical and intercultural leadership while supporting and
valuing a diverse group of staff on IB principles and practices, while concurrently
ensuring the mission is being met
✔ Can demonstrate the IB learner profile attributes and lead by example
✔ Is a proactive, flexible, and internationally minded thinker who provides robust
leadership, support, and promotes a collaborative environment to develop strategic
plans for the school
✔ Possesses financial, personnel management, and recruitment competence within the
school context
✔ Experience in school development and strategic leadership, with a focus on growth
✔ Holds degree(s) in education
✔ Holds a leadership degree or has experience in leadership positions, preferably as
the Head of school
✔ Communicates well in written and oral English and Norwegian
✔ Has leadership experience from a Scandinavian Education system, including
knowledge of the legal framework for private schools (including tariffs) and the IB in
Scandinavia
✔ Efficient communication and relationship-building skills and collaborates with all
stakeholders, including the AIS Board, the leadership team, teachers, other staff,
parents, students, and the wider community.
Candidates with the following qualifications/experiences may be prioritized:
✔ Leadership experience in an international school
✔ IB training is preferable
✔ Familiarity with running an international school in Norway
✔ IB Educator Network roles and responsibilities
✔ Media experience
Located on the southern coast of Norway, we take advantage of Arendal’s scenic natural
environment, historical background, culture, and the international community to support
real-world connections within our Units of Inquiry. Outdoor enthusiasts will appreciate the
opportunities for hiking, skiing, cycling, and kayaking in a beautiful setting. A competitive salary,
the state health services, and the accompanying pension scheme are offered to the successful
candidate.
Application deadline: January 4, 2026
Employment from August 1, 2026
Please send your application and your updated CV to:
Bjørn Christian Heimdal Larsen
board-chair@aischool.no
Sincerely,
Bjørn Christian Heimdal Larsen
board-chair@aischool.no
Chairman of the AIS Board