Ambleside School (Ambleside) is seeking a visionary, relational, and spiritually grounded leader to serve as its Director of Advancement. Founded in 1999, Ambleside is a Christ-centered K–8 school in McLean, Virginia, committed to providing a Charlotte Mason “living education.” In partnership with families, the school guides and empowers each student to think with the mind of Christ and to author a life rich in relationship to God, self, others, ideas, and all of creation. This enduring mission informs every decision the school makes and undergirds its academics, spiritual life, and community life. Through a broad and rich curriculum grounded in living books, daily spiritual rhythms, and a non-competitive atmosphere that cultivates habits of attention and diligence, Ambleside prepares students not only for future academic success but for thoughtful Christian discipleship and lifelong learning.
The Director of Advancement reports directly to the Head of School and works closely with the Board of Trustees and senior leadership. The Director is responsible for leading the school’s fundraising, donor cultivation, advancement communications, and community partnerships. This leader must be an effective relationship builder who can manage strategy, systems, and people with professionalism and warmth. As such, he or she must be skillful in collaborating with leadership, trustees, faculty, parents, alumni, and donors – producing consistently high-quality work while inspiring others to invest in and advance the mission of Ambleside School. As Ambleside continues to grow in influence and impact, the Director of Advancement will play a critical role in strengthening the partnerships and philanthropic support that sustain its mission.
Ambleside cultivates a calm, joyful, and beautiful learning environment where students feel secure and respected. This intentional “thought-environment” nurtures curiosity, attentiveness, and delight in learning.
Education includes the intentional formation of habits such as attentiveness, perseverance, and careful work. These habits shape both academic growth and moral character, preparing students for lifelong learning.
True education engages the whole person—mind, heart, body, and soul. Through rich ideas found in living books and creation, students develop a vibrant and enduring love of learning.
Review the Opportunity Profile to learn more about this remarkable school and consider if you or someone you know would be a great fit for this role.
