Head of Higher Vocational School

Head of Higher Vocational School (m/f/d)
The Higher Vocational School for Anthroposophical Heilpädagogik, Social Pedagogy and Social Therapy (HFHS) in Dornach is a training institution for social pedagogy. The focus is on the federally recognized, practice-integrated degree program in Social Pedagogy HF.
We assume that every person wants to realize their own life motives and experience social appreciation. For people who need support in doing so, competent social pedagogues are needed to accompany them. Our understanding of education is holistic: learning is understood as an active, situational and social process. Different educational prerequisites are taken into account through diverse methodological-didactic approaches; individual learning paths are specifically supported.
We are guided by current findings in social work, ethical standards, the framework curriculum, and the experiences of self-advocates. In addition, impulses from anthroposophical practice and research are incorporated. The basis is the anthroposophical understanding of humanity and the resulting perspective on social processes.
Our students reflect on their practical experiences and connect them with theoretical expertise and the diversity of social pedagogical fields of work. Artistic processes form an essential part of the curriculum and promote the deepening of content as well as the development of self and social competence.
The HFHS is sponsored by the non-profit "Verein für Ausbildung in anthroposophischer Heilpädagogik" based in Dornach. The Higher Vocational School is eduQua-certified, is regularly evaluated by students, and works with "Wege zur Qualität". It currently has over 100 students, 13 employees, and around 70 external lecturers.
Due to the retirement of the current incumbent, we are looking for a personality to head the Higher Vocational School starting in 2027 (by agreement).
Your tasks
You identify with the values of the HFHS as described in our mission statement. On this basis, in coordination with the faculty and the board of the sponsoring association, you will be responsible for the overall management and further development of the HFHS at the professional, organizational, financial, and personnel levels.
To ensure good perception of the professional challenges and current developments, it has proven beneficial to use part of the workload for teaching activities.
In particular, your tasks include the following areas:
You are responsible for the entire training, further education, and service offering of the HFHS.
You represent the HFHS in the network of vocational education and training as well as towards cantonal and national authorities.
You are responsible for the hiring and management of colleagues in the areas of training and administration and are the point of contact for all personnel matters.
You prepare the annual budget in coordination with the board and are responsible for its adherence.
You submit the applications for cost approvals from the cantons.
You maintain intensive exchange with practical training institutions.
You cultivate and strengthen the professional networks of the HFHS nationally and internationally.
You ensure compliance with legal provisions and are responsible for quality assurance and development.
What you bring
You have a high appreciation for and understanding of social pedagogy and related fields of work, for people with support needs, and for practice institutions.
In addition, the following qualifications are important:
You have an academic degree in social work, social pedagogy, or related fields, which qualifies you for teaching at a Higher Vocational School (tertiary level). Ideally, you have experience in social work, adult education, and the education system.
Ideally, you are already familiar with the legal and commercial requirements of an educational institution or have the ability to acquire this knowledge quickly.
You approach challenges constructively and with commitment. You are able to seize both opportunities and crises entrepreneurially and to consistently implement necessary measures.
Your working style is structured, and you are characterized by a high ability for self-management and for perceiving societal developments.
Your collaboration is characterized by high empathy and teamwork. You foster a constructive feedback culture, connect with participatory approaches such as collegial leadership, and create development opportunities within the organization. Experience in organizational development or a leadership position is an advantage.
You possess excellent communication skills and use them to inspire colleagues, partners, and government representatives for the HFHS and its work.
You are willing and interested in engaging with the anthroposophical approach in social pedagogy and further developing it creatively and through dialogue – potentially also in an international context.
You shape the administrative framework conditions of the training institution effectively and efficiently, including the expansion of reliable digital structures and processes.
Our offer
An exciting task awaits you in an appreciative and value-based environment in a beautiful, nature-oriented setting.
Taking over the leadership offers diverse opportunities to co-shape a meaningful societal task.
You will receive far-reaching design possibilities within your area of responsibility.
We offer you opportunities for professional and personal development and the benefit of good and reliable infrastructure.
A stable cultural and financial situation awaits you, as well as a dedicated and reliable team of colleagues.
As a person responsible for leadership, you will receive remuneration commensurate with the position within the framework of our salary structure.
In addition, we offer attractive social benefits.
The focus of your activity will be in Dornach near Basel; the location is very easily accessible by public and private transport.
Application
If you are interested in this position, we look forward to receiving your application documents (CV, letter of motivation, certificates) by e-mail.
All applications and inquiries will be treated confidentially. Should you have any questions in advance, please feel free to contact Andrej Schindler. jid0cd130aa jit0833a jiy26a