Deputy Head of Preschool

About the job

We have an exciting opportunity for a Deputy Head of Preschool(100% permanent position) starting October 2025.

This is more than an administrative role: it is a chance to help shape and lead a highly valued part of Stavanger’s international community. Working closely with the Head of Preschool, you will play a central role in the daily running of the preschool as well as its long-term development.

Qualifications

The right person for this role will bring both professional expertise and the personal qualities that make a trusted leader in early years.

Required: 

• A valid work permit for Norway (or eligibility to obtain one)
• Recognised early years teaching qualification and classroom experience
• HKDir approval (or in process)as barnehage styrer
• Leadership experience within a preschool or early years setting
• Experience supporting children with Special Educational Needs (SEN)
• Bachelor’s degree in pedagogy/early childhood studies (approved by HKDir) and/or barnehage lærerutdanning
• Leadership qualifications and/or proven leadership experience
• Knowledge of the IB Primary Years or Early Years Programme is an advantage
• Excellent communication skills in English and/or Norwegian 
• Knowledge of Norwegian preschool legislation

Desirable:

• Strong administrative and organisational skills, with confidence using digital tools and management systems
• Flexibility and adaptability
• Able to manage change and shifting priorities with ease
• Resilience and a calm, solution-focused outlook
• A collaborative approach: able to work effectively with staff, parents, and external agencies
• Integrity, professionalism, and a genuine passion for creating a nurturing, high-quality preschool environment
• A proactive, dynamic style of leadership with a commitment to continuous learning and improvement

Responsibilities

• Support the Head in leading and overseeing the daily operation of the preschool, ensuring compliance with Norwegian preschool/barnehage regulations and the vision of our organisation
• Assist with the pedagogical leadership of the preschool, maintaining a high-quality learning environment for children
• Contribute to the management of the preschool budget
• Lead on recruitment and appointment of class leaders, SEND teachers, and teaching assistants
• Support the Head in staff follow-up, including sick leave, appraisals, and professional development
• Oversee personnel resources and maintain strong cooperative routines
• Build and nurture positive relationships with parents and external agencies
• Support the Head in maintaining and continuously improving the preschool’s working environment, ensuring it remains positive, collaborative, and professional

Personal qualities

• Enthusiastic, open-minded, proactive, and adaptable.
• A strong work ethic with structured, systematic working methods.
• A collaborative mindset and solution-focused approach.
• Skilled in building positive, trusting relationships with children, parents, and colleagues.
• A passion for creating a caring, nurturing, and creative learning environment.
• A desire to continually improve and develop the preschool service.

We offer

BISS Preschool is a collaborative learning organisation where professional growth is encouraged and supported. We offer:

• A welcoming, supportive team environment.
• Ongoing investment in professional development.
• A generous private pension scheme.

Equal opportunities and safeguarding

To ensure gender equality, we strongly we encourage men to apply for this role.

BISS is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of children and young people and expects all staff and volunteers to share this commitment. All offers of employment are subject to a criminal record check (DBS or equivalent).