Senior Deputy Head of Secondary

Job description / Role

Job Description

GEMS Founders School Al Mizhar is seeking an experienced Senior Deputy Head of Secondary for September 2025. This is a fantastic opportunity for an experienced leader to take the next step in their career with a global leading company and within a world-class international school located in the heart of Dubai.

We are British Schools Overseas (BSO), allowing us to offer ECT, QTS, and iPGCE programmes to our teachers through the TES Institute. GEMS Founders School, Al Mizhar is truly unique, and anyone who comes to work here has a wonderful opportunity to leave their mark. In line with our school values, you will have the opportunity to embed The GFM Way in everything you do at GFM.

As Deputy Head of Secondary, you will have the opportunity to make a significant impact on the direction and success of the school. Your main responsibilities will include:

Key Responsibilities include but are not limited to:

• Promote and ensure high levels of safeguarding, child protection, student development, and well-being.
• Assist, support, represent, and deputize for the Head of Secondary.
• 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 Secondary and ultimately the Principal/CEO.
• Fully understand the requirements and expectations within the National Curriculum for England, Ministry of Education, Dubai Schools Inspection Framework, and British School Overseas Framework.

Ideal Candidate Profile

• Have a certified teaching qualification at degree level such as B.Ed, PGCE, PGDE, or equivalent.
• NPQH / NPQSL preferred.
• 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 personal leadership qualities to develop trusting relationships, a coaching approach to development, and the ability to inspire others.
• 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.
• A creative and enthusiastic approach both in and out of the classroom.

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.