PEDAGOGICAL DIRECTOR

Reports To: Board of Trustees

Collaborative Relationship: Works as an equal partner with the Director of Administration in a collaborative leadership structure

Coordinates With: Head of Pedagogical Team, Heads of Kindergarten, Lower Primary, Upper Primary/Middle School, High School Principal, and Head of Learning Support

Supervises: Teaching faculty across all educational systems

Classification: Full-time, 12-month position

About Nairobi Waldorf School Trust

Since 1999, the Nairobi Waldorf School Trust (NWST) has provided holistic and inclusive education to students in Nairobi, Kenya. We currently serve over 550 students across two campuses in Lavington and Karen, offering Kindergarten through High School, including BTEC and IB Diploma options. As the only Waldorf high school in East Africa, we are proud to integrate a unique blend of Waldorf education with rigorous international standards.

Our approach nourishes the intellectual, physical, and artistic development of the child, cultivating each child’s unique contribution for the future through the unfolding of courage, compassion, and truth. NWST is dedicated to providing education inspired by the Waldorf philosophy.

This foundation maximizes the potential for learning, loving, and creating to unfold naturally in children while helping to remove obstacles in their paths. Academics, art, music, and movement are interwoven to meet the developmental needs of the whole child. Through a Waldorf education, we are preparing children to be conceptual thinkers whose self-understanding, compassion, expressiveness, and creative problem-solving skills equip them to take on life to its fullest potential. The health and well-being of the school is created through a strong and engaged community that connects students, parents, teachers, and support staff.

The Role

The Director of Pedagogy serves as the pedagogical leader of Nairobi Waldorf School, working in a collaborative leadership model with the Director of Administration. This position is responsible for ensuring all aspects of the educational programs align with Waldorf principles while effectively integrating with IB and BTEC requirements. The Director of Pedagogy guides the faculty, fosters professional development, and ensures the continued evolution of the curriculum across the school's three educational systems: Waldorf (Kindergarten through Class 10), International Baccalaureate (IB) (Classes 11-12), and BTEC. Working closely with the Head of Pedagogical Team and section heads across all levels, as well as the Head of Learning Support, the Director of Pedagogy ensures a cohesive educational experience for all students. The ideal candidate will have deep knowledge of Waldorf pedagogy, strong leadership abilities, and a commitment to inclusive education principles.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Pedagogical Leadership

● Uphold and develop the Waldorf curriculum and its implementation across all levels

● Guide the pedagogical integration of Waldorf principles with IB and BTEC curricula

● Lead faculty in ongoing anthroposophical studies and deepening

● Oversee the artistic and cultural life of the school

● Ensure pedagogical integrity in all aspects of student experience across all three educational systems

● Maintain awareness of ongoing developments in Waldorf education internationally

● Guide faculty in balancing traditional Waldorf approaches with contemporary educational needs

● Foster innovation within the pedagogical framework that honors Waldorf principles

2. Faculty Development

● Lead, mentor, train, and evaluate teaching staff across all sections and educational systems

● Coordinate professional development opportunities aligned with school needs and teacher growth

● Facilitate regular classroom observations and provide constructive feedback

● Guide teachers in adapting Waldorf pedagogy to individual student needs, including those with learning support requirements

● Foster a culture of continuous improvement through self-reflection and collaborative learning

● Support teachers in transitions between different educational programs

● Coordinate teacher mentoring programs

● Guide section heads in supporting their faculty teams

3. Educational Program Oversight

● Monitor and evaluate educational quality and student progress across all systems

● Guide implementation of age-appropriate curriculum across all grades

● Coordinate subject integration and balance across the curriculum

● Visit classes regularly to ensure pedagogical standards are being met

● Uphold educational standards in line with Waldorf, IB, and BTEC requirements

● Ensure smooth transitions between educational systems for students

● Coordinate development of curriculum that meets requirements of all three educational systems

● Oversee assessment practices that honor both Waldorf principles and external requirements

● Support cohesive student experience across all educational levels

4. Pedagogical Leadership Bodies

● Work collaboratively with the Head of Pedagogical Team and section heads Chair and coordinate the Pedagogical Group/College of Teachers

● Lead teacher meetings with pedagogical focus

● Ensure representation of pedagogical perspectives in all school decisions

● Collaborate with the High School Principal on IB and BTEC implementation

● Guide pedagogical committees and working groups

● Facilitate faculty study and research initiatives

● Support development of pedagogical policies and procedures

5. Parent Education

● Develop and coordinate parent education on Waldorf philosophy and its integration with IB and BTEC

● Guide communication about child development and educational methods

● Offer presentations and workshops on the school's educational approach

● Help parents understand transitions between different educational systems

● Support teachers in communicating effectively with parents about student progress

● Create resources for parents to support Waldorf education at home

● Lead orientation for new families entering the school community

● Address parent questions and concerns regarding pedagogical matters

6. Learning Support Oversight

● Work closely with the Head of Learning Support to ensure inclusion of students with diverse learning needs

● Support development of inclusive pedagogical approaches

● Ensure Waldorf principles are maintained in learning support practices

● Coordinate appropriate accommodations across all educational systems

● Guide faculty in understanding differentiated learning approaches

● Support integration of therapeutic elements within the educational program

● Ensure appropriate progress monitoring for students with learning support needs

● Facilitate conferences with parents of students requiring additional support

7. Collaborative Responsibilities (with Director of Administration)

The Director of Pedagogy partners closely with the Director of Administration in a collaborative leadership structure, ensuring that educational and operational priorities support the mission and values of the Nairobi Waldorf School. Together, they:

● Participate in long-term strategic planning, succession planning and institutional development with the Board of Trustees.

● Build and sustain an inclusive and values-driven school culture rooted in Waldorf principles.

● Align efforts on enrollment, family engagement, and school-wide communications.

● Respond jointly to crises, ensuring student support and continuity of care.

● Co-lead school-wide diversity, equity, inclusion, and justice (DEIJ) work.

● Ensure that pedagogical goals are resourced and supported through coordinated budgeting and planning.

● Work together to provide learning support structures that serve diverse student needs across all programs.

● Ensure that planning is carried out with regards to ensuring adequate space for the growing community.

● Help with the fundraising to ensure development of the next stage of building. While the Director of Pedagogy leads the educational vision and faculty development, their shared leadership ensures a united and balanced approach to school governance and growth.

The Person

You are a great fit for Nairobi Waldorf School Trust if:

● You believe in holistic education and are passionate about nurturing students' intellectual, emotional, and creative capacities. You see education as more than just academic success but rather the shaping of well-balanced individuals who can think critically, act with empathy, and engage meaningfully with the world.

● You thrive in a collaborative community and enjoy working closely with teachers, students, parents, and school leadership to foster a supportive and inclusive school culture. Youunderstand the importance of relationships in education and lead with warmth, respect, and active listening.

● You appreciate the balance of structure and flexibility. You recognise the need for well-run operations to support a thriving school while also embracing the organic, evolving nature of Waldorf education. You’re adaptable and comfortable navigating both administrative and pedagogical landscapes.

● You’re committed to lifelong learning. Whether it’s engaging with new educational philosophies, refining school policies, or developing faculty leadership, you have a growth mindset and a deep respect for the art of teaching and school governance.

● You lead with integrity and transparency. People trust you because you communicate, make thoughtful decisions, and foster an environment where open dialogue is encouraged.

● You value sustainability and connection to nature. Whether in school design, curriculum development, or operational decisions, you recognise the importance of environmental stewardship and creating a learning environment that respects and engages with the natural world.

This position is perfect for you if:

● You have a Waldorf teaching certification from an accredited Waldorf Teacher Training program

● You have minimum 7 years' experience as a Waldorf teacher, preferably across different grade levels

● You have demonstrated leadership experience in Waldorf educational settings

● You have a deep understanding of Anthroposophy and Waldorf educational philosophy

● You have a strong knowledge of child development and Waldorf curriculum

● You have excellent interpersonal and communication skills

● You are willing to learn about and engage with IB and BTEC frameworks

● Experience in or commitment to inclusive education for students with diverse learning needs.

What You Can Expect

● Educational Impact: You will play a critical role in shaping the growth and sustainability of Waldorf education in East Africa, ensuring the school continues to provide a nurturing and inspiring learning environment.

● Excellence: We strive for a high standard in both education and operations, embracing best practices while honouring Waldorf traditions.

● Culture: We are a warm, engaged, and dynamic community that values collaboration, creativity, and continuous learning.

● Ownership: We believe in autonomy with accountability—giving you the space to lead while ensuring shared responsibility for the school’s success.

● Diversity: Our community is a beautiful blend of cultures, experiences, and perspectives, and we celebrate the richness that comes from that.

Location

This role is based in Nairobi, Kenya, with work across both our Lavington and Karen campuses. While much of the work will be on-site, occasional travel within Kenya may be required for school-related engagements, training, or partnerships.

Terms of the Engagement

Compensation for this role will be commensurate with experience and qualifications. The position includes a competitive benefits package, including health insurance