Secondary Assistant Principal

Job description / Role

THE ACADEMY

GEMS World Academy-Dubai (GWA) is a private, co-educational IB World School for PreK to Grade 12 students. Established in 2008 as a member of GEMS Education, the Academy is authorised to deliver the PYP, MYP, DP and CP programmes, and is also accredited by the Council of International Schools (CIS) and the New England Association of Schools and Colleges (NEASC). We serve a multi-ethnic community in the heart of Dubai, with a student body drawn from over 100 countries. Non-selective, our ethos is grounded in the IB Learner Profile; we encourage intellectual curiosity, entrepreneurial spirit, and foster a real sense of communal endeavour. The Academy has gained national and international recognition for its work to improve outcomes for students, as well as its aspirational and inclusive vision. As a member of the GWA community you will have the opportunity to shape the future of the Academy whilst working alongside an exceptionally talented group of teachers and leaders.

GEMS World Academy-Dubai develops inquiring, reflective and caring learners who, through the rigour of the IB programmes, have the knowledge, skills and character to take action and create a better, more peaceful world. Supported by highly qualified staff in world-class facilities, our diverse international community is encouraged to develop intercultural understanding and respect. Our aim is to be a leading world-class IB school that maximises every student's learning and character to enable them to choose their own successful path, and positively contribute to the local and global society.

JOB PURPOSE:

With the CEO / Principal and the Senior Leadership Team, the post-holder will (i) share responsibility for all the policies, decision-making processes and strategic planning involved in the management of the Academy; (ii) realise the ethos of an IB learning organisation with high expectations of students and staff, and a positive approach to internationalism, entrepreneurialism and innovation; (iii) lead the development of the Academy as a learning, researching and self-evaluating organisation (iv) lead by example, setting the highest professional standards and maintaining a visible presence around the Academy.

The post-holder will deputise for the Secondary Principal in their absence, and support the CEO/Principal and Principals in their workload, when tasks are delegated or shared.

The focus of this post is to lead on all aspects of personal and social development, behaviour and wellbeing in the relevant Secondary campus, quality assurance, self-evaluation, professional development (including developing coaching provision for teacher development) and provide strategic leadership of the Academy's Pastoral teams as agreed within the Senior Leadership Team.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:

The ideal candidate should have a strong track record in effective teaching and helping students succeed. While experience in teaching the IB Middle Years and Diploma programmes is preferred, outstanding school leaders from any curriculum background are encouraged to apply. Alignment with the IB philosophy and commitment to the Learner Profile values are crucial. A genuine passion for working in a non-selective, inclusive and culturally diverse community is also a key requirement. Additionally, the candidate should possess:
- A certified professional qualification at degree level, such as B.A., BSc., PGCE, PGDE or equivalent educational specialism
- A minimum of 3 years tenure in school management preferably with direct pastoral, behavioural and student leadership experience in an international context
- Proven impact in integrating meaningful wellbeing initiatives in a complex, fast-paced and challenging environment
- Availability from August 2024
- The experience, personality and educational philosophy to continue to drive the education agenda at this flagship GEMS IB World School, catering for students from over 100 countries
- The desire to provide outstanding teaching and learning
- Aspiration to work in a world class school with significant opportunities for career development and advancement

Requirements

YOUR PACKAGE AND BENEFITS

An excellent remuneration package is available for successful candidates including; a competitive tax-free salary, housing, premium medical insurance and life insurance, working permit and residence visa, annual flight allowance, tuition fee concession, and other benefits in line with the UAE Labour Law. In addition to these, we offer:
- The opportunity to shape the future of a highly significant IB programme
- The opportunity to work as part of a highly collaborative team with an excellent support system
- An excellent programme of continuing professional development
- Training with the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO)
- The chance to shape the future of the subject in collaboration with the leadership team, external education professionals, and exam boards
- The opportunity to develop personally and professionally, through a well-structured performance management system
- Opportunities to advance to positions of greater responsibility over time
- A commitment to staff wellbeing, including access to all of our sports facilities, and staff social events
- GEMS Rewards, which offers a package of benefits for staff such as retail discounts, savings on gym membership, cinema tickets and many other offers

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.