Deputy Head of Primary

Job description / Role

Job description

From August 2026, we are looking to appoint an outstanding Deputy Head of Primary to join the team. The post holder will be responsible for supporting the school's vision and mission as well as all policies, academic standards, and pastoral support in the primary school.

The successful applicant will deputise for the Head of Primary as required and assist in shaping and implementing the school's educational strategy.

Key responsibilities include supporting the Head of Primary, but are not limited to:

• Promote and ensure high levels of safeguarding, child protection, student development, and well-being
• Assist, support, represent, and deputise for the Head of Primary
• Embrace and encourage the ethos and standards of excellence as defined in the GEMS Core Values
• Play a major role in formulating and reviewing the School Improvement Plan, strategic direction, and self evaluation
• Maintain and develop the ethos, values, and overall mission and vision of the school
• Promote a positive image of the school
• Lead and develop staff through effective coaching, mentoring and performance management
• Ensure that the school plays a constructive role in the life of the community
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of the school, students and staff
• Implement policies for all stakeholders
• Take a lead in the efficient organisation, management and supervision of school routines
• Be accountable to the Head of Primary and ultimately the Principal/CEO
• Fully understand the requirements and expectations within the National Curriculum for England, the Ministry of Education, and the Dubai Schools Inspection Framework

Skills

Required qualifications and skills:

• Have a certified teaching qualification at degree level, such as B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent
• At least 5 years of solid and demonstrable experience in teaching at a primary school in a British curriculum school
• Experience in a similar role
• The desire to provide outstanding teaching and learning
• Aspiration to work in a world-class school with real prospects for enhancing their career
• Excellent IT and interpersonal communication skills to work closely with students and parents

GEMS Education is committed to safeguarding and promoting the welfare of all of its students and staff. A UK-enhanced DBS or equivalent police check is a pre-requisite for all appointments.

About the Company

GEMS Education is a pioneering education company with an international network of award winning K-12 schools. Over the past 55 years GEMS has grown from one school to being a truly global company with one incredible mission – to make quality education available to every student. Over 20,000 education professionals unlock the potential of over 250,000 students across 14 countries each and every day, preparing children of all ages for real world success.