Assistant Headteacher: Learning & Teaching (Whole School) - September 2026

Job Description

GEMS Royal Dubai School is a vibrant, premium British curriculum school currently educating students from FS1 to Year 8. The school will expand to include Year 9 in September 2026, with a clear strategic plan to grow through to Year 13. With a diverse community of over 850 students representing more than 48 nationalities, the school combines a strong family feel with high academic expectations.

As the school continues to grow, a brand new purpose built secondary campus will open in September 2026. This state of the art facility will further enhance the high quality learning environment and opportunities available to students.

Due to the promotion of the current postholder, the school is seeking a dynamic and passionate Assistant Headteacher - Learning and Teaching to join the leadership team from September 2026. The successful candidate will be motivated, driven to raise standards, and committed to achieving excellence for every student. This is an exciting opportunity to play a key role in a high performing school and contribute to the continued development of the .

Job Purpose

To lead learning, teaching and professional development across all phases of the school, building on the strong practice and established coaching culture already in place. The role includes a teaching commitment as either a subject specialist or primary specialist, modelling high quality teaching that leads to exceptional outcomes for students.

Key responsibilities

• Model outstanding classroom practice and support colleagues in delivering consistently high quality teaching across both Primary and Secondary.
• Lead the monitoring and evaluation of teaching and learning, ensuring consistency and addressing areas for improvement quickly.
• Oversee the coaching programme and professional development systems, ensuring impact across the school.
• Play a key role in self evaluation and school improvement planning using a wide range of evidence to inform decisions.
• Strengthen a culture of collaboration, professional dialogue and research informed professional development.
• Support the design and evaluation of effective performance management systems for all staff.
• Lead strategic teaching initiatives across the school.
• Demonstrate a reflective, solution focused leadership approach with a commitment to continuous improvement.
• Build strong relationships with colleagues, students and parents through excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Contribute to the wider life of the school through events, extracurricular activities and community engagement.
• Maintain the highest standards of safeguarding and student wellbeing.
• Continue personal professional development as a senior leader.
• Carry out other reasonable duties as directed by the school leadership.

Qualifications and Skills

The successful applicant will be an experienced UK qualified teacher (BEd, PGCE or PGDE) with a proven track record of impact in leading teaching and learning. They will demonstrate strong leadership, a commitment to high standards and the ability to inspire both staff and students.

Application requirements

• An up to date CV outlining experience and responsibilities
• A letter of application explaining suitability for the role
• A one page summary demonstrating impact in their current position

Additional Information

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.