THE ROLE
We are now seeking an innovative Secondary Assistant Principal - Personal Development, Behaviour & Wellbeing to join our successful team, from August 2025.
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 Development, Welfare, Behaviour and Wellbeing in the Secondary Division, 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.
Vision & Strategic Direction
Develop 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.
Model and encourage a culture of kindness in support of the GEMS/GWA core values and uphold the mission and ethos of the Academy as a non-selective, international and academically successful Academy through the lens of the International Baccalaureate Organisation.
CORE RESPONSIBILITIES:
Academy Leadership and Management
* To lead, coach, and support staff and students through a high profile role, promoting the Academy’s vision, mission, ethos, values and strategic aims. Furthermore, to be available (onsite) for a minimum of 15 days out of term time during each academic year determined by the CEO/Principal (or a delegated member of staff)
* To share responsibility for all the policies and decision-making involving the agreed area of responsibility. Establishing and evaluating policies which support the strategic direction of the academy and achievement of its aims and objectives
* To lead in the formulation of the academy’s targets, aims, objectives and development plan, playing a major role in driving the academy, its staff and students towards these goals thereby raising student achievement
* Effectively lead and manage (including performance management) teams of staff from across the academy towards achievement of its targets, aims and objectives including delivery of the Academy Development Plan strategies and initiatives
* Monitor and evaluate progress towards achieving targets, aims and
* objectives identified on Academy Development and
* Department Development Plans and to take action where required
* To lead and facilitate day-to-day data arrangements and requirements, communications and consultations within the agreed area of responsibility
* To lead and take part in whole academy duties such as those at lunch, break, start and finish times
* To ensure all staff are familiar with Academy and GEMS procedures and guidelines linked to exclusion processes
* Responsible and accountable for budget expenditure for those areas that fall within the remit of the post-holder to ensure funding is used appropriately
* To develop, lead and monitor the implementation of an effective whole academy Attitude to Learning policy
* Support, develop and empower academy staff in effectively executing the Attitude to Learning policy
* Working with all Assistant Principals, to lead on student voice and follow through the appropriate recommendations agreed by the SLT
* To lead on the schedule of assemblies and reflection room supervision
* To ensure students have a smooth transition between divisions
Students Learning
* To foster high standards, inclusion, motivation and achievement in learning through supporting the Academy area you have direct responsibility for
* To retain an overview of 1:1 target-setting processes, monitoring and evaluation for students, through maintaining, reviewing and interpreting the data which informs students’ progress and target-setting and to take timely action
* Provide timely and focused intervention where targets, aims and objectives are not being addressed or achieved so that student outcomes (including progress and attainment) are consistently good or better
* Coordinate, develop and oversee the tutor time programme in all grade levels
* Oversee all grade level field trips, ensuring the appropriate request formsand risk assessment protocols have been followed
Skills
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 teachers 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 and culturally diverse community is also a key requirement. Additionally, the candidate should possess:
* A Bachelor of Education degree, or an initial degree plus a relevant teaching qualification such as a PGCE, PGDE or equivalent.
* Advanced qualifications are preferred but not essential
* A minimum of 3 years experience in a similar position, ideally within an IB DP curriculum school, however this is not mandatory
* A strong understanding of the IB framework and Approaches to Teaching is preferred
* A strong desire to continually improve their practice and deliver outstanding teaching and learning experiences for their students
* The experience, personality and educational philosophy that aligns with a leading IB World School like GEMS World Academy
* August 2025 availability
YOUR PACKAGE AND BENEFITS
An excellent remuneration package is available for successful candidates including; a competitive tax free salary, furnished accommodation, 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:
* A highly collaborative working environment and excellent support system
* An extensive programme of continuing professional development
* Training with the International Baccalaureate Organisation (IBO) for teachers delivering the IB
* The chance to shape the future of the department in collaboration with the leadership team and external education professionals
* The opportunity to develop personally and professionally, with access to a structured performance management system, and with opportunities to advance to positions of greater responsibility
* A commitment to staff wellbeing, including access to all of our sports facilities, termly fitness and wellbeing sessions, and staff social events
* GEMS Rewards which offers a package of benefits for staff such as retail discounts, savings on gym memberships, cinema tickets and many other offers