Founded in 1870, Fettes College is a leading HMC co-educational boarding and day school close to the heart of Edinburgh. It has a strong tradition of academic, sporting and cultural excellence underpinned by outstanding pastoral care.

Fettes has grown to become Scotland’s most successful co-educational independent school, renowned for its academic rigour, outstanding pastoral care and vibrant, inclusive community. Recently named Scottish Independent School of the Year for Academic Excellence 2025 (GCSE/A Level) by the Sunday Times and recognised as the top IB School in Scotland and in the top 10 in the UK, Fettes enjoys a strong reputation as a beacon of excellence in Scotland and across the world. Set within an iconic 100-acre campus in the heart of Edinburgh, Fettes is a proudly Scottish school with a strong global outlook which provides all students with a sense of place and belonging. Fettes is a unique place to live, place to learn, and place to grow.

The Governing Body is now seeking a visionary educationalist who will bring energy and experience to the role of Head from September 2026. This is a rare and career-defining opportunity for an outstanding leader to shape the future of a school with a proud legacy and bold ambitions. The successful candidate will lead a team of over 300 dedicated staff, championing Fettes’ core values and ensuring every student receives an education that is intellectually challenging, emotionally enriching, and globally relevant.

The successful candidate will be a strategic, visible, and emotionally intelligent leader. They will have significant gravitas and the ability to inspire, empower, and credibly represent a school of Fettes’ standing across local, national, and international contexts. The appointee will have a compelling strategic mindset and strong commercial acumen whilst remaining an educator at heart, committed to fostering academic excellence and progressive teaching.

To download the appointment details for this role, including information on how to apply, please visit https://candidates.perrettlaver.com quoting reference 7857. The closing date for applications is Thursday 15th May 2025 at 08:30 BST.

Fettes College is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people. For further information regarding Fettes College’s Safeguarding policy, please click here.

Fettes College is committed to creating a diverse workforce and welcomes applications from under-represented communities. Applications are particularly encouraged from Black, Asian, and Minority Ethnic (BAME) candidates. If you would like to have an informal chat about the inclusive culture at Fettes College, or have any questions about how this might work for you, please contact Sadia Hussain-Savuk (DEI Lead) at S.Hussain-Savuk@fettes.com.

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Fettes College jobs

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