Are you passionate about transforming education and empowering the next generation of African leaders? Do you believe in an educational model that champions inquiry, collaboration, and skills development over rote memorization? Nova Pioneer is looking for an outstanding and visionary educator to join our dynamic team as Associate Dean of Instruction and Learning at our Athi River School campus, starting August 2025.
This is a remarkable opportunity to influence the direction of learning and instructional practice at one of Africa’s most innovative educational institutions. If you’re an experienced instructional leader with a track record of coaching excellence and academic achievement, we invite you to read on and explore what it means to be part of Nova Pioneer.
About Nova Pioneer
Nova Pioneer is not just another network of schools. We are reimagining education for the 21st century and pioneering a new approach to teaching and learning across Africa. With campuses in Kenya and South Africa, Nova Pioneer is building a world where every child is empowered to lead change in their communities and beyond.
Our vision is to launch 100 schools across Africa, reaching tens of thousands of students with an education that cultivates critical thinking, leadership, and innovation. Our unique inquiry-based learning model encourages students to ask “why” rather than memorize the “what,” allowing them to explore knowledge through curiosity, creativity, and collaboration.
Currently operating 16 schools, Nova Pioneer offers world-class, accessible education from pre-primary through secondary school, including the Competency-Based Curriculum (CBC) and Cambridge curriculum. We are committed to developing students’ holistic growth and academic mastery.
To learn more about who we are and what we stand for, visit www.novapioneer.com.
About the Athi River Campus
Nova Pioneer’s Athi River School campus is a vibrant educational community that offers a comprehensive academic experience across all levels—from Pre-Primary to Senior Secondary. The school blends the CBC and Cambridge curricula to deliver a rigorous and relevant educational journey, focused on preparing students for global opportunities while remaining rooted in local contexts.
The Athi River campus is designed to be a center of excellence where teaching is informed by data, enriched through coaching, and focused on results. As Associate Dean of Instruction and Learning, you will be at the heart of this transformation.
The Role: Associate Dean of Instruction and Learning
As the Associate Dean of Instruction and Learning, you will play a crucial role in shaping teaching practices, supporting academic programming, and coaching educators for maximum impact. This is not just a managerial position; it is a leadership opportunity with the potential to influence the academic and personal growth of both teachers and students.
You will report to the Dean of Instruction and Learning and work closely with School Principals, Senior Resident Teachers, and other instructional leaders.
Key Responsibilities
Your key duties will include:
Instructional Leadership
- Teach up to 10 lessons per week in your subject area to stay grounded in classroom practice.
- Collaborate with the Principal to articulate a compelling academic vision for the campus.
- Promote a culture of high expectations, continuous improvement, and joy in learning.
- Lead and participate in school culture rituals to reinforce student engagement and core values.
Coaching & Professional Development
- Act as a coach and mentor for teachers, offering frequent, actionable feedback through classroom observations and walkthroughs.
- Facilitate structured professional development (PD) sessions that are data-driven and impact-oriented.
- Oversee collaboration across grade levels and departments to build consistent instructional practices.
- Work with the Teacher Lesson Design team to ensure feedback on lessons is effectively integrated.
- Support teachers in using assessment data to refine instruction and improve student outcomes.
Staff Hiring and Development
- Lead the hiring process for instructional staff, ensuring the campus recruits top teaching talent.
- Supervise PD routines and development pathways for new and existing teachers.
- Partner with the Dean of Instruction to ensure PD schedules are timely, relevant, and engaging.
Academic Planning and Operations
- Coordinate with the Operations Associate to ensure teaching materials and learning resources are available and aligned to lesson plans.
- Oversee intervention programs aimed at supporting diverse academic needs, whether remedial or enrichment.
- Collect, interpret, and use internal and external assessment data to guide instructional priorities.
- Collaborate with school leadership on timetabling and academic calendar planning.
Stakeholder Engagement
- Lead instructional briefings and information sessions for parents and external stakeholders to promote transparency and engagement.
- Be responsive and proactive in resolving classroom and school-level challenges to maintain a healthy learning environment.
Candidate Profile
We are looking for someone who:
- Holds a Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Education and is TSC certified.
- Has at least two years of experience in a high-performance school setting, including a leadership role such as a teacher coach, department head, or grade level lead.
- Is a recognized master teacher who models best practices in inquiry-based learning.
- Demonstrates a proven ability to develop others and lead through influence and empathy.
- Possesses strong strategic thinking skills, yet is detail-oriented and organized in execution.
- Is data-driven and comfortable using assessment insights to guide decision-making.
- Embraces feedback, reflection, and personal growth—living the Nova Pioneer culture of continuous improvement.
- Is excited to shape the future of African education and help students thrive academically, emotionally, and socially.
A Master’s degree in education or educational leadership is desirable but not required.
Working at Nova Pioneer
At Nova Pioneer, we don’t just work — we grow, we innovate, and we transform lives. Our team members, affectionately called “Novaneers,” experience rapid career development and mentorship from some of the most passionate minds in education.
We provide:
- Robust professional development opportunities
- A clear and structured career pathway
- An entrepreneurial, high-energy culture
- A community that celebrates learning, joy, and perseverance
Yes, we work hard — but we do it with purpose, laughter, and commitment to excellence.
To learn more about our core culture values, visit our website and explore what it truly means to be a Novaneer.
Application Process
Does this opportunity excite you?
If you’re ready to join a mission-driven organization and help redefine education across Africa, then Apply Now!
How to Apply
Please complete the application form available on the right-hand side of the application page.
We do not accept email applications.
Make sure to upload your resume in PDF format to preserve formatting.
Recruitment Process
Our hiring process includes:
- Phone Interview
A brief chat to better understand your skills, experience, and motivation. - Practical Task
Demonstrate your capability through a role-specific task (e.g., lesson plan design, coaching feedback sample, etc.). - Final Interview
A deeper conversation with the hiring manager to evaluate mutual fit.
Only successful candidates will be contacted after each stage.
Important Note
Nova Pioneer does not charge any application fees. If you receive communication requesting payment to process your application, please report it immediately to:
If you’re ready to make a difference and grow with one of Africa’s most dynamic educational movements, apply today and become part of the Nova Pioneer journey.
For more information on the role and Nova Pioneer’s vision, refer to the attached PDF.
Let’s build the future of African education—together.
