Head of Arabic & Islamic - August 2025

Job description / Role

Job Description

With a 65-year legacy of excellence and a global reputation as one of the largest and most awarded private education providers, GEMS Education integrates cutting-edge advancements through its extensive networks and high-level partnerships. Join the GEMS School of Research and Innovation, where significant investments in AI, robotics, and state-of-the-art facilities drive exceptional student outcomes in academics and well-being. As a leader in educational innovation, we offer a forward-thinking environment focused on personalised learning, holistic development, and the opportunity to shape the future of education.

At GEMS School of Research and Innovation, we provide a seamless educational journey from Pre-Prep + Prep to Sixth Form, enhanced by cutting-edge technology and a forward-thinking curriculum. In the Pre-Prep + Prep stages, we prioritise personalized learning through gamification and advanced technologies, alongside a strong emphasis on science, computing, reading, writing, and the arts. Our facilities include an innovation lab, specialist IT equipment, and programs in sports such as gymnastics, martial arts, basketball, and cricket. Emerging technologies like robotics, AI, machine learning, and VR/AR are integrated to enhance learning, including advanced Arabic provision.

In Secondary and Sixth Form, students benefit from tailored pathways with a wide range of GCSEs and A-levels in subjects like sciences, business, and fine arts, supported by university-linked lectures and industry placements. Advanced tools such as Web3/blockchain, drones, autonomous vehicles, and esports labs prepare students for future careers. Sixth Form further bridges school, university, and industry through global partnerships and cutting-edge technology, ensuring students excel academically while acquiring real-world skills.

The Head of Arabic and Islamic Department will provide strategic leadership in curriculum development, teaching, and learning, ensuring high standards in Arabic and Islamic education. With teaching responsibilities, the role focuses on delivering an engaging, research-driven curriculum that integrates modern pedagogy, technology, and student-centered learning. The position also involves mentoring teachers, fostering cultural appreciation, and building strong partnerships with educational bodies to enhance student outcomes and uphold national educational standards. The successful candidate will support Subject Leaders in decision-making for curriculum, assessment, and resource development, and will lead intervention and development plans for individual teachers as required.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide leadership and guidance to Arabic and Islamic teachers and curriculum support staff, ensuring high standards of teaching, learning, and the integration of educational technology across all phases.
• Monitor the effectiveness of the Arabic and Islamic teaching programmes, ensuring they are innovative and deliver the appropriate standards, key concepts, and knowledge.
• Set and deliver targets for improvement for students, ensuring staff are fully conversant in the effective use of data to raise attainment and accelerate progress.
• Analyse department data with the team to identify students at risk of underachieving and target intervention effectively to ensure success.
• Identify the training needs for all staff within the team, devise appropriate professional development opportunities, and share best practices.
• Lead the Performance Management process for the team, identifying areas for improvement and producing appropriate staff development plans where necessary.
• Promote the subject area through Open Days, Options Evenings, and develop opportunities to raise the profile of Arabic throughout the year.

Person Specification

• Hold a BEd or Bachelor's degree with Qualified Teacher Status.
• A Master's degree or equivalent qualification is preferred.
• Evidence of ongoing personal professional development as both a teacher and/or leader.
• At least 2 years' experience of middle/senior leadership with Arabic and Islamic.
• Experience in teaching and leading across at least two phases.
• A successful track record of planning, implementing, and managing change.
• Experience in working in an international setting, with thorough knowledge and understanding of the DSIB inspection framework and UAE National Agenda.
• A clear drive and motivation for all students to achieve and exceed their potential.

All positions attract an excellent remuneration package including: competitive tax-free salary, individual fully furnished accommodation, free schooling, private medical insurance, annual airfares to the country of residence, and end of service gratuity.

GEMS Teachers also have free access to our loyalty app which provides significant savings on day-to-day life in the UAE. We offer thousands of discounts and 2 for 1 offers on everything from flights, hotels, restaurants, and retail outlets, making your salary go further and enhancing the opportunity to save whilst working overseas.

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.