Director of Sport - Aug 2025

Job description / Role

Job Description

We are looking for an outstanding Director of Sports to join us at GEMS World Academy Abu Dhabi for AY2025/2026. This is a fantastic opportunity for educators to start or continue their international career with a leading global education company. Our teachers enjoy an outstanding, state-of-the-art school facility and environment in which to deliver dynamic learning opportunities to a highly motivated international student body. In support of the expansion, we are looking for a Director of Sports who is excited to join our distinguished school and is driven to provide education at an exceptional level.

As Director of Sports, you will be responsible for developing and overseeing the strategic direction of sports and physical education across all age groups. You will inspire students to achieve their full potential in sport while promoting a culture of health, teamwork, and excellence.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and implement a whole-school sports strategy that fosters engagement, participation, and excellence.
• Lead, manage, and inspire a team of PE staff and coaches across all age groups.
• Oversee the curriculum design for Physical Education, ensuring it is inclusive, progressive, and aligned with best practices.
• Coordinate competitive and recreational sports programs, building strong links with local and international sporting organizations.
• Champion student well-being through physical activity initiatives that support mental and physical health.
• Manage budgets, facilities, and resources to ensure high-quality sports provision.
• Lead professional development and training for staff to enhance coaching and teaching standards.
• Promote the school's sporting reputation through events, competitions, and partnerships.

Skills

The ideal candidate will be a visionary leader in sport and education with the ability to inspire students and staff alike. You should be:

• Bachelor's Degree in the subject.
• A certified teaching qualification such as BEd in PE, PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent with a specialization in Physical Education.
• Minimum of 2 years of solid and demonstrable full-time PE teaching experience at the Middle School PYP/MYP level.
• Preference will be given to those who have gained the same at an IB/British curriculum school.
• A creative and enthusiastic approach both in and out of the classroom.
• Excellent IT and interpersonal communication skills to work closely with students and parents.

If you are excited by this opportunity and are keen to apply, please ensure to mention in your cover letter if you will be traveling with a teaching partner and what subject/year groups they are qualified to teach. Also, please clearly differentiate which PE you taught at various year groups.

Other Requirements

• An experienced educator and coach with a proven track record in leading sports programs across multiple age groups.
• A strategic thinker with the ability to develop long-term plans that align with the school's vision and values.
• A passionate advocate for physical education, committed to inclusivity and excellence in school sport.
• A strong communicator and team player, capable of motivating students, staff, and the wider school community.
• Well-connected in the sporting community, with experience in organizing competitive fixtures and events.

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.