Academy Principal
General
Min 2 Years
Please carefully read the role description below to verify that you meet the requirements. The apply button can be found at the bottom of this page.
Driven to provide hope & healing.
Mercy Ships is an international charity that brings hope and healing to the world’s forgotten poor through state-of-the-art hospital ships. Since 1978, our volunteer crew—made up of medical professionals and skilled workers from over 60 nations—has delivered free surgeries and medical care to over 2.8 million people in Sub-Saharan Africa, transforming lives one patient and one port at a time. Join our global team of over 3,000 volunteers and help us change lives daily.
About this role
The Academy Principal is responsible for the daily operations of the Nursery to 12th grade levels of education of the ship school onboard a Mercy Ship. You will lead the team, implementing and coordinating the academic program, student services, and management of teaching staff including administrative duties, parent relationships, and supporting auxiliary activities.
You are also responsible for ensuring good communication and collaboration between the school and other departments onboard.
This position may qualify for a family cabin. If you have school-age children, learn more about Mercy Ships Academy.
Requirements
Each role with Mercy Ships calls for a unique blend of experience, skills, and qualifications. The info below outlines what’s needed to serve effectively in this position—to meet operational standards and to help you thrive as part of the team.
What You Will Contribute
Implement the Mercy Ships Academy academic program curriculum which includes a Biblical philosophy of education that will incorporate Mercy Ships Core Values and mission statement
Maintain school facilities in orderly manner, within the maritime requirements and ship policies
Maintain the School Improvement Plan in cooperation with the Director, Assistant Director and Educational Board
Communicate with teachers and parents the educational goals of the Academy and information regarding the care and education of missionary children
Maintain regular and consistent communication with the Director and Assistant Director, teachers, parents, students, school board members, and direct reports
Maintain the accreditation standards of the Academy set forth by the Association of Christian Schools International and Middle States Association
Maintain and conduct regular staff reviews and lesson observations
Review and interview future teaching staff
What You Will Need
Successful completion of Mercy Ships On Boarding program
Bachelor’s Degree in education from an accredited college or university is required plus a minimum of 5 years’ experience in classroom teaching or educational administration
International education experience is preferred
Current Teaching Certificate preferred
A minimum commitment of three school years is preferred
Aim to obtain Master’s Degree from an accredited university within 5 years from date of hire
About the team
You’ll be part of a Volunteer Team that’s most relevant to your role, working side by side with a diverse community of volunteers using their skills to serve, and supporting daily life on board.
Frequently asked questions.
We are so excited that you are interested in learning more about serving with us. These are the most common questions we receive for this department.
SCAM ALERT: Please be aware of recruitment scams. Mercy Ships will never charge any fees as a part of the recruitment process. For more info click here.
Click here for a list of medical requirements to serve, including required immunizations.
The experience of a lifetime is calling.
More than 1,200 volunteers from over 60 nations serve with Mercy Ships each year.
At Mercy Ships, we are proud to be recognized around the world for the life-changing surgeries and training we deliver. We could not achieve this without our dedicated community of talented volunteers.
Imagine finishing your shift and stepping onto deck as the sun sets—knowing that today you’ve helped transform the lives of those who need it most. Apply now to start a journey that will reshape the lives of those you serve—and your own.
Faith-Led Commitment to Diversity & Inclusion
Mercy Ships is a faith-based organization welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds and experiences who are committed to our mission and values. All qualified applicants will receive consideration.
Beware of Imposters: Confirm All Volunteer Communications
Volunteer opportunities and invitations to serve will always come directly from Mercy Ships’ official volunteer engagement teams. Never provide personal information to anyone without confirming their connection to Mercy Ships.
