Ixar Academy Vocational School is looking for a dynamic, experienced and results-driven School Principal to lead our growing vocational school.
We are a practical skills-focused institution committed to equipping young people with marketable vocational skills, entrepreneurship capabilities and pathways to sustainable employment or self-employment.
Job Summary
- Employer: Ixar Academy Vocational School
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
- Category: Education Management
- Salary: $700 (net)
- Closing Date: 2026-09-22
Key Responsibilities
- Providing strategic and academic leadership for the school.
- Overseeing the accreditation and registration of courses and programmes with relevant regulatory and awarding bodies.
- Ensuring compliance with all applicable education, vocational training, health & safety and regulatory requirements.
- Developing and maintaining academic policies, procedures and quality assurance systems.
- Managing trainers, support staff and overall school operations.
- Monitoring teaching, practical training and student performance.
- Driving student recruitment, enrolment and retention initiatives.
- Developing partnerships with industry, employers and relevant institutions.
- Ensuring that vocational programmes remain relevant to current industry needs.
- Supervising examinations, assessments, student records and certification processes.
- Preparing reports and providing regular updates to management.
- Promoting discipline, professionalism and a positive learning environment.
- Supporting the growth and expansion of Ixar Academy’s vocational education programmes.
Requirements
- A relevant degree/diploma in Education, Vocational Education, Management or a related field.
- Proven experience in school or vocational training institution management.
- Knowledge and experience in accreditation, regulatory compliance and quality assurance.
- Strong understanding of vocational and practical skills training.
- Demonstrable experience in student recruitment and institutional growth.
- Excellent leadership, communication and organisational skills.
- Ability to work independently, solve problems and deliver results.
- Experience dealing with regulatory and awarding bodies will be an added advantage.
Salary
$700 (net)
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications do I need to become a school principal at a vocational school in Zimbabwe?
You typically need a Bachelor's degree in Education or a related field, plus a recognised teaching qualification, and often a Master's in Educational Leadership or Management. For vocational schools, practical industry experience in the trades offered is highly valued, along with a Diploma in Vocational Training or equivalent. Registration with the Professional Qualifications Committee of the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education is also expected.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities of a vocational school principal in Zimbabwe?
You will oversee curriculum delivery, manage teaching and support staff, and ensure compliance with Ministry of Education regulations and examination board requirements. Daily duties also include student discipline, budgeting, resource and workshop maintenance, and liaising with industry partners for student attachments and apprenticeships. You’ll be responsible for school performance reporting and community engagement.
What aspects of the local work culture in Zimbabwe should a school principal be prepared for?
Expect a hierarchical culture where the principal is looked to for firm decision-making, but also strong respect for consultative processes with school heads, senior teachers, and school development committees. You’ll need to manage resource constraints creatively, as many vocational schools face budget and equipment shortages. Timely communication and a hands-on approach are often admired, and you must be mindful of staff welfare in a context of economic pressure.
What realistic career progression paths exist for a school principal at a vocational school in Zimbabwe?
After several successful years, you could move into district or provincial education officer roles, or become an education inspector with the Ministry of Primary and Secondary Education. In the private vocational sector, you could progress to an academic director or operations manager overseeing multiple campuses. Another common route is transitioning into educational consultancy focused on curriculum development or teacher training.
What typical benefits (like leave, medical aid, pension) come with a principal role in Zimbabwe, and what should I expect?
If employed by a private vocational school, benefits usually include paid annual leave (typically 30 days), sick leave, and maternity or paternity leave as per Zimbabwean labour law. Many private schools contribute to a pension fund and offer medical aid cover, while public schools are covered by government benefits. Smaller institutions may only offer these after a probation period, so confirm specifics in your contract.
How should I approach applying for this role and what do employers in Zimbabwe typically look for?
Prepare a strong CV that highlights both academic leadership and hands-on vocational or industry experience, and attach certified copies of your qualifications. Employers look for a people-centred leader with proven financial management, strategic planning, and a track record of improving student pass rates in both theory and practical assessments. Networking through professional education associations and direct applications to private schools are both effective, and be ready to demonstrate how you can run a school on limited resources.
