Sail Training - Principal Skipper
We are looking for an inspirational Principal Skipper to work in conjunction with the Operations and Training Manager to lead this thriving department. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding professional who is committed to delivering a broad curriculum to a diverse range of pupils from around Scotland, the UK and the world.
Situated on the beautiful Moray Coast in the North of Scotland, Gordonstoun is widely recognised as the world leader in character education. We have a co-educational community of over 500 students aged from 5-18, who are predominantly full boarding and are drawn from over 40 countries.
We are looking for an inspirational Principal Skipper to work in conjunction with the Operations and Training Manager to lead this thriving department. This is an exciting opportunity for an outstanding professional who is committed to delivering a broad curriculum to a diverse range of pupils from around Scotland, the UK and the world.
Gordonstoun prepares students for a full and active role as international citizens in a changing world. As well as preparing students for exams, Gordonstoun prepares them for life. Through sail training voyages and our small boat sailing programme Gordonstoun students gain invaluable experience in being both leaders and team players and in having compassion and understanding for others and themselves. Their outlook is broadened, their ability to consider the needs of others developed, an they gain resilience – life skills which complement the School’s commitment to academic excellence.
Gordonstoun’s motto is ‘Plus est en vous’: There is more in you (than you think)’. A Gordonstoun education is underpinned by a deep conviction that potential in everyone can be best unlocked in the context of a vibrant, caring community where students are empowered to stretch themselves; reach beyond their comfort zone and embrace challenge.
Our founder, Kurt Hanh, described the Moray Firth as “my best schoolmaster”. Consequently, sail training is an essential component of Gordonstoun’s broad curriculum. The school has its own 80-foot sail training vessel, Ocean Spirit of Moray, which is used by all students, Year 8, 10 and 12 students enjoy a multi-day voyage. Ocean Spirit’s programme also includes a longer summer voyage, which may include participation in international Tall Ships Races or extended voyages to more remote locations such as Spitzbergen, Iceland or the Azores. Small boat sailing activities occur at our RYA Sailing Centre in Hopeman.
Gordonstoun is striving to build a team that is truly inclusive. We welcome applications from marginalised and under-represented groups.
We would also be interested in hearing from candidates who would be interested in working with us on creating a role which combines the key components of the Principal Skipper and Operations and Training Manger posts.
Benefits of working at Gordonstoun
· Members of a defined contribution pension scheme.
· Staff fee remission for children in the school in accordance with the staff fee and admissions policies.
· Free meals during term time.
· Free use of sports facilities.
· Free yoga classes.
· Free parking on school campus and cycle to work scheme.
· Free access to an employee assistance programme for services such as counselling and legal advice.
If you’re excited to learn more, please email our recruitment department at recruitment@gordonstoun.org.uk or contact us on 01343 837837. Your application form should be emailed recruitment@gordonstoun.org.uk
Job Description and Person Specification
The closing date for receipt of applications is Monday, 27 November 2023 at 9am for a Summer or Autumn 2024 start.