Head of Department (HOD) – Computer Sciences & Digital Design

About the job

Job Purpose The Head of Department – Computer Sciences & Digital Design provides academic and strategic leadership for the planning, delivery, and evaluation of IB Computer Science and Digital Design programmes. The role ensures high-quality teaching and learning aligned with IB philosophy, learner profile, assessment practices, and digital innovation, while integrating IB-specific platforms and tools to support teaching, learning, and assessment. Key Responsibilities 1. IB Curriculum Leadership & Development • Lead the design, implementation, and review of IB MYP and DP Computer Science and Digital Design curricula in alignment with IB subject guides and standards. • Ensure effective use of concept-driven, inquiry-based, and project-based learning approaches. • Oversee vertical and horizontal curriculum alignment across grade levels. • Integrate Approaches to Learning (ATL) skills and global contexts into unit planning. • Lead interdisciplinary units aligned with the IB MYP and DP frameworks. 2. Teaching & Learning • Teach IB Computer Science and/or Digital Design courses as required. • Model best practices in IB pedagogy, differentiation, and assessment for learning. • Promote ethical technology use, academic integrity, and digital citizenship. • Support students in developing computational thinking, algorithmic thinking, and design thinking skills. 3. IB Assessment & Moderation • Oversee planning, delivery, and standardization of IB internal and external assessments. • Lead the administration and quality assurance of: • IB DP Internal Assessments (IA) – Computer Science • IB MYP eAssessments • MYP Personal Project and DP Extended Essay supervision • Ensure accurate application of IB assessment criteria and descriptors. • Coordinate internal moderation and external moderation submissions via IB systems. 4. IB-Specific Software & Digital Platforms (Essential Knowledge) The HOD is expected to demonstrate proficiency and leadership in the use of IB-related digital tools, including but not limited to: • MyIB – curriculum resources, programme documentation, PD, and authorization/evaluation processes • IBIS (IB Information System) – registration, IA uploads, moderation, and examination processes • ManageBac – curriculum planning, unit mapping, assessment tracking, ATL documentation, and reporting • IB eCoursework – submission and moderation of digital coursework • Teaching & Learning Tools (IB-Aligned) – Google Workspace for Education / Microsoft 365 – collaboration, documentation, and assessment • Learning Management Systems (LMS) such as ManageBac, Canvas, or Google Classroom • Turnitin – academic integrity and plagiarism checking • Computer Science Tools – Programming languages and environments aligned with IB DP CS (e.g., Python, Java, JavaScript) • Algorithm and logic tools (e.g., Flowcharting software, pseudocode tools) • Version control basics (e.g., Git/GitHub) • Digital Design Tools – CAD and prototyping software (e.g., Tinkercad, Fusion 360, SketchUp) • Digital design and media tools (e.g., Adobe Creative Cloud, Figma) • Physical computing tools (e.g., Arduino, Micro:bit) • Emerging technologies (AI tools, UX/UI platforms, web design tools) 5. Department Leadership & Management • Lead, mentor, and appraise Computer Science and Digital Design teachers. • Facilitate collaborative planning, lesson observations, and professional feedback. • Manage departmental budgets, software licenses, hardware, and lab resources. • Ensure compliance with health, safety, and digital safeguarding policies. 6. IB Compliance & Professional Development • Ensure departmental readiness for IB authorization, evaluation, and verification visits. • Lead departmental self-study and action planning aligned with IB standards and practices. • Participate in and lead IB-approved professional development workshops. • Stay informed about IB curriculum updates and emerging educational technologies. 7. Innovation, Enrichment & School Contribution • Promote innovation through coding clubs, robotics teams, digital design showcases, and hackathons. • Support student participation in technology competitions and exhibitions. • Contribute to whole-school strategic planning and digital transformation initiatives. • Build pathways for students into STEM, computer science, digital media, and design careers. Qualifications & Experience Essential • Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science, Digital Design, Engineering, or a related field. • Recognized teaching qualification. • Minimum 10 to15 years of teaching experience, preferably in an IB School. • Experience teaching IB MYP and/or DP Computer Science or Design. • Demonstrated leadership or departmental coordination experience. Desirable • IB Examiner, Moderator, or Workshop Leader experience. • Experience leading IB authorization or evaluation processes. • Strong background in curriculum design and assessment standardization. Skills & Competencies • Strong instructional and curriculum leadership • Advanced digital literacy and IB system proficiency • Excellent communication and interpersonal skills • Data-driven decision making • High level of organization and adaptability • Commitment to the IB Learner Profile and international-mindedness

Requirements

• IB Curriculum Leadership
• Digital Design
• Teaching
• Computer Science

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Computer Science
• Digital Design
• Engineering or related field
• Recognized teaching qualification

Preferred Technologies

• IB Curriculum Leadership
• Digital Design
• Teaching
• Computer Science